Meet the Team
Liisa Jeffrey, Executive Director
Liisa was born and raised in Southern New Brunswick, on the Bay of Fundy. She grew up with horses and worked at a zoo for many years. Liisa fell in love with agriculture while attending the Veterinary Technology program at the Nova Scotia Agricultural College, and immediately transferred into their Ag degree program. In 2010, Liisa obtained her Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, with a major in Animal Science and a minor in Agriculture Business. After graduation, she worked in corporate accounting for 7 years and took a number of advanced accounting and business management courses to further her education. Liisa has been leading the PCBFA team since she moved to Alberta in 2016, and she thoroughly enjoys being part of the team and being actively involved in the agriculture industry. In her free time, Liisa enjoys photography and archery, and spending time with her husband and their two young boys.
The Executive Director provides strategic oversight, working with the board to set direction and goals, managing financial and human resources, and leading staff in achieving the organization’s vision.
Liisa Jeffrey, B.Sc.(Agr), PAg.
(825) 345-0806 | liisa@pcbfa.ca
Dr. Akim Omokanye, Science Director
Akim is PCBFA’s Science Director and a Forage/Livestock Research Agronomist. He is responsible for planning, executing and tracking research projects and demonstrations as well as making the findings available to producers for local adoption. He has incredibly enjoyed working with producers since joining PCBFA. "Producers drive my research. They have great research ideas and I learn a lot from them." Akim is very passionate about sharing his research findings with producers in the Peace and with other researchers worldwide.
Akim is originally from Nigeria. He holds a Ph.D. from Western Sydney University (formerly University of Western Sydney, UWS) in Systems Agriculture (2005), M.Sc. in Animal Production and Forage Agronomy (1998), and a B.Sc. in Agriculture, Animal Science (1988). Akim is a member of several national and international professional societies/organizations such as the Canadian Society of Animal Science, Nigerian Society for Animal Production, and Alberta Institute of Agrologists. Akim has authored/co-authored several research articles in appropriate agricultural journals.
Akim lives in Fairview with his wife and his children. He enjoys traveling, photography, tennis, watching documentaries and reality TV shows (e.g. Survivor), and designing houses & shopping malls just for fun.
The Science Director oversees PCBFA's research program, guiding the development of research proposals, executing projects, and reporting results, including grant reports and publications. This role also manages the Peace Region Living Lab initiative.
Dr. Akim Omokanye, PhD., PAg.
(780) 835-1112 | akim@pcbfa.ca
Alaina Archibald, Operations Director
Though she grew up in the suburbs of north western BC, Alaina became a Peace Region resident while attending college in 2010. She quickly fell in love with the vast diversity of the area and has called the Fairview area home ever since! Alaina attended Grande Prairie Regional College and while completing her studies in Business Administration, she found a particular love for Marketing and enjoys expressing her creative side through various types of marketing media.
In addition to her career, Alaina is a mother, avid outdoorswoman and a producer of grains and forage with a love for supporting fellow young farmers and women in agriculture. Alaina also owns a small business, Fairhaven Equestrian, where she specializes in Equine Reproduction. In her spare time she enjoys riding horses, hunting, fishing, volunteering, hiking and enjoying life with her daughter.
Working with PCBFA aligns with Alaina’s agricultural passions while blending with her professional experience in Business, Office Management and Marketing. Alaina is very excited to be a part of such an invigorating team that shares the same passions surrounding innovative and sustainable agriculture.
The Operations Director oversees day-to-day operations, ensuring smooth functioning of the organization and high team performance. This role leads PCBFA’s Extension Program and provides comprehensive support to the entire team.
Alaina Archibald, Dpl. BA, Marketing Major
(780) 834-7256 | alaina@pcbfa.ca
Dr. Blasius Azuhnwi, Research Scientist
Blasius Azuhnwi is a livestock scientist with rich knowledge and practical expertise, having spent over two decades in livestock research, teaching and consultancy. He holds a PhD in Agricultural Sciences (Tannins in Forages) from the Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) in Zurich, Switzerland, and was initially trained as a veterinarian.
Fresh from vet school in Nigeria, he worked as an extension veterinarian with the Ministry of Livestock in his native Cameroon, before taking postgraduate studies in Europe. After his PhD, he worked with the Swiss Federal Animal Research Station (AGROSCOPE) as a Research Associate and later as a postdoc and researcher in Toulouse, France, with the French National Agronomic Research Institute (INRA). He has also worked as a consultant in Africa with international livestock organizations such as the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) and the FAO and as an adjunct professor in animal sciences with universities in Cameroon. He has authored and co-authored several research works in peer-reviewed journals, farmer-oriented journals, and policy briefs. In his free time, he takes pleasure in raising his kids, giving back by volunteering as a fireman and staying active with soccer, volleyball, and ping pong. He also enjoys watching English Premier League soccer matches with his son, who is a fan of a rival soccer club.
The Research Scientist analyzes data, compiles reports, writes articles and publications, assists the Extension Team with analytical research presentations, and collaborates with third parties on research projects.
Dr. Blasius Azuhnwi, PhD., PAg.
(416) 854-8559 | blasius@pcbfa.ca
Dr. Hayford Gyamfi, Research Coordinator
Originally from Ghana, he developed a passion for agriculture while living with his grandmother in rural Ghana. Witnessing her struggles to improve farm productivity and income inspired a commitment to agriculture as a profession, with the goal of providing solutions to producers facing similar challenges.
He holds a PhD in Perennial Forage Agronomy from the University of Alberta (Canada), a BSc in Agriculture from EARTH University (Costa Rica), and a Diploma in Agriculture from Kwadaso Agricultural College (Ghana). Before relocating to Canada in 2016, he worked as a Commercial Officer with AGRO ECOM Ghana, supporting producers. Upon moving to Canada, he took on the role of Barn Officer with Henry J. Peters Farms in Thedford, Ontario.
Passionate about making a difference in the agricultural community, he takes pride in seeing producers succeed and values the opportunity to discuss challenges and offer solutions. Over the years, it has become clear that producers hold a wealth of knowledge, and there is always something to learn from them. In his free time, he enjoys playing soccer or table tennis, singing, and reading.
The Research Coordinator oversees research projects, including small plot and field-scale trials, ensuring efficient execution and management. This role coordinates third-party research projects, develops project timelines and deliverables, and analyzes project data to drive meaningful insights.
Dr. Hayford Gyamfi, PhD.
(519) 639-7107 | hayford@pcbfa.ca
Cameron Bilodeau, Safety & Research Tech Lead
Camerons family moved a lot during her childhood. Her father worked in the oil and gas industry and that lead her family to move from small town to small town throughout British Columbia. It’s due to this connection Cameron chose to go into an Environmental
pathway, recognising the importance of working with companies rather than against them.
After graduating from highschool she moved to Edmonton, Alberta where she got her diploma in Environmental Science from the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology. She continued her studies at Concordia University of Edmonton receiving a degree in Environmental Science with a minor in Biology.
Cameron has always been an animal lover, having owned dogs, cats, horses, and the occasional fish. Nicknamed the animal whisperer by baffled family members, there has yet to be an animal that did not end up loving her. She’s loved the feel of being on a farm and getting right in the dirt and mud. Moving to Fairview is her chance to really get to know the community and reconnect with the small
town life she grew up loving.
The Safety & Research Technician Lead oversees the health and safety program, ensuring compliance with regulations. Leads and manages the daily duties of seasonal research technicians while coordinating their training. Conducts data collection for all projects, including small plot and field-scale trials.
Cameron Bilodeau, Dipl. Sc. (Env), Biology Major
(780) 267-4616 | cameron@pcbfa.ca
Parteek Bhardwaj, Extension Coordinator
Parteek Bhardwaj is from India. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from Guru Kashi University and recently graduated from the Agriculture Technology Integration program at Olds College in Alberta. During his time at Olds College, Parteek served as the Vice President of Communications for the Student Association.
He enjoys working with different communities and values strong communication and building positive relationships. Parteek has a passion for sustainable agriculture and believes in supporting practices that will help preserve resources for future generations. He also enjoys volunteering and being part of initiatives that strengthen community connections.
Parteek Bhardwaj, B.Sc.(Agr)
(368)-299-1114 | parteek@pcbfa.ca
Owen Rolling, Research Technician Intern
Born and raised on a 4th-generation grain farm in Bluesky, Owen grew up immersed in farm life. Recently, his family has incorporated cattle into their operations, adding a new dimension to their agricultural roots. In his role as an Agricultural Research Technician at PCBFA, Owen brings a great sense of humour and charisma to the team. In his free time, he enjoys playing video games, working on his truck, and following sports. Looking ahead, his goal is to share the family farm with his twin brother, continuing its legacy in grain and cattle. Owen is passionate about learning and staying updated on agricultural practices, with an open mind toward pursuing further education in the future to expand his expertise. for each team member. Make it brief and informative to keep visitors engaged.
Owen Rolling
owen@pcbfa.ca
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Myah Adams, Accounting & Office Clerk
Myah was born in Newfoundland, but grew up in Southern Ontario before moving to the Peace Region in 2012 to be closer to her family. While living in Ontario, Myah worked on a mobile farm petting zoo that traveled around to different events throughout the year. She enjoyed working with different animals like sheep, goats, and miniature ponies, but cared little for the geese. Her lifelong love of learning brought her back to school in 2021, when she took a few open studies courses with NAIT as well as obtaining her Bookkeeping Certificate. Since stepping into her role with PCBFA, Myah has learned a lot about agriculture and the community that surrounds it. She has gained a newfound understanding of the challenges and triumphs farmers face everyday and how agricultural research plays a vital role in their livelihood. When she isn't reconciling accounts, Myah enjoys reading, kayaking, camping, volunteering in the community, spending time with friends and family, and traveling with her husband.
Myah Adams
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Sprout, Pest Control
Sprout was born in 2023 and joined PCBFA after spending 10 months at the SPCA. Now, he's thriving in his role as our resident top-notch mouser and expert cuddler. Whether he's keeping pests at bay or winning hearts with his affectionate nature, Sprout is an invaluable member of our team!
The Pest Control Lead is responsible for keeping pests under control while also serving as the door greeter and master biscuit maker to ensure maximum comfort. Provides essential emotional support as part of daily operations.