KARYN ARNAULD-BAKELAAR: EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Karyn brings more than 15-years of international non-profit leadership experience to Emmanuel’s Wish Foundation, with a strong commitment to ethics, transparency, accountability, and open communication. She holds a master’s degree in international law and African Studies, and has extensive experience in international program development, staff and budget management, audits, and provincial, national, and international governance processes, and well as program development management. Her work has included collaboration with local and international partners in the areas of child welfare and legal reform, education, trauma-informed care for those struggling with addiction and/or incarceration, women’s rights, and HIV/AIDS advocacy.
She is the mother of three children; one by birth, and two by adoption. She has spent extensive time living and working in her sons’ country of birth, South Africa, and works on-the-ground, managing the programs run by EWF. She now resides on an off-grid small-holding outside of Richmond, KwaZulu Natal (and is working on her isiZulu).
To learn more about Karyn, please see: https://themosaicproject.ca/meet-our-team
LAUREL WILLIAMSON: DIRECTOR
Laurel Williamson is a dedicated community leader, business owner, and experienced bookkeeping professional with a passion for helping organizations thrive through strong financial stewardship and thoughtful governance. She brings a practical, solutions-focused approach to every board she serves, combining strategic thinking with a commitment to transparency, accountability, and meaningful impact. Outside of her professional work, Laurel enjoys travel, nature, and giving back to causes that strengthen communities and support families.
To learn more about Laurel: https://simplifybookkeeping.ca/
CATHY MURPHY
Cathy Murphy retired after more than 35 years of leadership in social services and child welfare. As an experienced Executive Director, she built a strong track record in child welfare, social services, and regional, provincial, federal, and international government relations.
Throughout her career, Cathy has been a respected public speaker, trainer, educator, and advocate dedicated to supporting and empowering children, youth, and permanency families. She is deeply committed to advancing permanency for children and youth involved in the child welfare system and to promoting community-driven development, collaboration, and empowerment.
Her career has been defined by a passion for creating lasting, positive outcomes for vulnerable children, strengthening families, and fostering partnerships that build resilient communities.
LORI WILSON
Lori is the adoptive mother of two beautiful young women - her oldest Noli (Noluthando) is 22-years old and from South Africa and youngest McKenzie 17 via Children’s Aid Society. Lori and her family have been active supporters of EWF since its inception via regular financial donations and fundraising. EWF has provided them with a way to stay connected to the region of Noli’s birth as well as providing a way to give back to the South African community.
Lori and her family live in the east end of Downtown Toronto. She has worked in healthcare leadership for the past 30 plus years and currently works at the University Health Network in Toronto in Hospital Redevelopment. She has a Masters Degree in Health Promotion and Health Administration. Lori is active in her community as a volunteer with several agencies/causes including Surrey Place, FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder), Food Insecurity, Child Welfare and Mental Health Reform. She is personally committed to social justice and equity.
Lori joined the EWF Board in early 2026 and is currently focussing on fundraising and communication and is looking for volunteers to join her! Lori is also passionate about getting South African adoptees involved in EWF by creating a youth network! For more info please reach out to Lori directly via Facebook or email!