Our Volunteer Executive

Allan Mountford, B.A., B.P.E., B.Ed., M.Ed.

Co-founder of FANS (Fetal Alcohol Nova Scotia) Allan has worked for over 25 years on front-line and policy work for FASD. He is a retired educator with over 40 years of experience in the education system, working mostly with neurodiverse students, many of whom had undiagnosed FASD. After moving to Nova Scotia from Ontario he met some families struggling to find appropriate services for individuals with FASD. FANS is his promise to change their experience.

Rochelle Howlett

A co-founder of FANS, Rochelle is a proud Anishbaubek Kwe From Michipicoten F.N. in Northern Ontario, now embracing Mi’kma’ki as her home. Her advocacy began when her eldest son was diagnosed with FASD. She tirelessly advocates for him in all aspects of his life. Her 24-year career as a federal public servant has included training in FASD, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Gladue Report writing, and Native social work. These experiences have deepened her understanding of the complex challenges faced by individuals and families affected by FASD. Rochelle invites you to join us in fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for those affected by FASD.

Mike Howlett, D.V.M.

“Dr. Mike” is a veterinarian in Amherst, Nova Scotia, born and raised in Cumberland County. He attended UNB, Mount Allison, and UPEI, went to flight school, firefighter school, and wait for it… clown school…before finally deciding to become a veterinarian. He graduated from the Atlantic Veterinary College in 2012. He is the father of a teenage son diagnosed with FASD and brings his lived experience to the FANS executive.

Joni Mountford, R.N.

Joni has 50 years of front-line nursing experience. Her career in health care makes her a valuable asset to the FANS executive. After meeting families living with the daily struggles of FASD she has committed to working toward better outcomes here in Nova Scotia.

Shay-Lee Rafuse, RMT

Shay-Lee is the Health Director at Glooscap First Nation. She is drawn to helping others heal. She ran a massage therapy practice for 18+ years working closely with other para-professionals, specialists, and physicians. Recently, she worked in a non-profit organization supporting job seekers to connect with employers. Her passion for holistic healing has brought her to the Executive of FANS.

Leisha Seymour, B.Psych., M.Ed.

Leisha Seymour is the Executive Director of The John Howard Society of Nova Scotia. Since taking on this role in 2018, she has driven significant growth in the organization, growing the staff from 11 to 70, and the budget from $600,000 to $6 million. She has also developed five new housing programs and extended services throughout Nova Scotia. As a Senior Administrator at Phoenix Youth Programs and as a Manager at Breton Ability Center she developed policies and launched programs that help communities. Leisha earned her Master’s in Counseling from Acadia University and is dedicated to social justice, prioritizing inclusivity and diversity in her work.

As a mother of two, Leisha is passionate about building supportive environments for families. She is known for her clear vision and ability to make positive changes in her community. She is a great addition to the FANS executive.

We are your biggest FANS!

We operate on grants and donations. Your support for our initiatives would be greatly appreciated. Please etransfer to: fetalalcoholnovascotia@gmail.com