CANAAF President, Carolynne Harrison

Carolynne

President Burlington, ON

Joined 2017

It is an honour to serve as President of the Canadian Alopecia Areata Foundation (CANAAF). Connecting with so many supportive individuals at CANAAF events and conferences has been an incredible source of strength and inspiration throughout my daughter’s journey with alopecia areata.

As President, I work closely with our dedicated volunteer Board and community partners to foster awareness, support and education. Together, we advocate for the needs of individuals and families affected by alopecia areata across Canada. 

I am committed to helping CANAAF grow as a compassionate, inclusive, and impactful organization for Canadians navigating life with alopecia areata.

CANAAF Vice President, Melissa Riley

Melissa

Vice-President Timberlea, NS

Joined 2015

Hello from the East Coast! My alopecia journey began over 30 years ago and my son was diagnosed in 2014. CANAAF has been a welcome addition to our circle of support!

CANAAF Treasurer, Susan Teskey

Susan

Treasurer King City, ON

Joined 2014

My daughter was diagnosed with Alopecia in 2003. I joined the CANAAF Board to support other parents struggling to help their children live with this disease. I hope that I can help your family as CANAAF has helped mine.

Lauryn Harrison, CANAAF Secretary

Lauryn

Secretary Burlington, ON

Joined 2021

Hello! I’m a graduate of McMaster University and a current student at Western University in the Human Resources program. My alopecia areata began at age three and progressed to alopecia universalis at age 13. CANAAF has been a great pillar of support in my journey. It means so much to serve on this team. Together, we are stronger!

Francophone Liaison, Audrey Roy-Dorval

Audrey

Science and Research Communication Montreal, QC

Joined 2021

Hi, I’m a PhD student in Microbiology and Immunology at McGill University. My Alopecia Universalis journey began at 7 years old when I lost all my hair, eyelashes, and eyebrows. My mission is to promote scientific research, assist with any science-related topics and ensure published scientific findings are accessible to our community.

Geneviève

Francophone Liaison Montreal, QC

Joined 2024

Hello, I am a pediatric occupational therapist and am passionate about dance and animals. I have been living with alopecia since I was 9 years old. I have a desire to contribute to the accessibility of CANAAF and all its resources and knowledge to the French-speaking community of Canada, and to raise awareness about this autoimmune condition.

Marcy

Youth Engagement & Special Projects London, ON

Joined 2024

Hello! My name is Marcy. I’ve had alopecia areata since I was six years old and I proudly embrace my identity as a bald woman today. I graduated from Western University in 2024 with an Honours double major in Disability Studies and Childhood and Social Institutions. I’m passionate about raising awareness for alopecia areata, normalizing baldness, and empowering others through their hair loss journeys.

Kim

Western Canada Representative Vancouver, BC

Joined 2025

Hi! My name is Kim, and I’m an undergraduate neuroscience student at UBC. My Alopecia journey began in 2020 when I was diagnosed with Alopecia Universalis, and it has been on and off since. I’m dedicated to raising awareness and building a supportive community for Alopecians across Canada. My experience has shaped my career path as a future doctor, and I hope to use that to further support the Alopecia community.

Sanaz

Volunteer Coordinator Toronto, ON

Joined 2025

Hello, my name is Sanaz! I’m a medical student at the University of Toronto and I’m really passionate about advocating for people with alopecia areata across Canada. I’m excited to work alongside and support the incredible volunteers who help make our events possible!  I’m also eager to help improve medical education for this community.

Sara

Patient Advocacy & Support, ON

Joined 2025

Hi! I’ve had alopecia areata since I was 6 years old and grew up as part of the CANAAF community. I’m honoured to give back to the network that helped me to embrace and love myself as I am. My mission alongside CANAAF is to raise awareness of alopecia, advocate for inclusivity and equal access to care, and build a world where baldness is not just accepted but loudly celebrated.

Aliya

Social Media & Public Relations, ON

Joined 2025

Hi! I’m Aliya, a recent life sciences graduate from the University of Toronto. My alopecia journey began at age eight, starting with small patches that eventually led to the loss of my eyebrows and eyelashes. My goal is to build a supportive community that gives people with alopecia easy access to resources and guidance, while also helping families and friends learn how to better support their loved ones.

Lisa

National Support Coordinator, BC

Joined 2025

I’ve had alopecia areata for over 20 years and now embrace wearing wigs. Finding community was a turning point in my journey, so I know how powerful connection can be. In this role, I’m honoured to help Canadians with alopecia feel less alone by nurturing a strong, compassionate network of support.

Administrative Assistant

Jennifer

Administrative Assistant Scarborough, ON

Joined 2024

I was diagnosed with alopecia universalis in 2021. CANAAF provided me with support, resources and hope during one of the most difficult times in my life. I am looking forward to this role and connecting others with all CANAAF has to offer!