Dominique Laforest is a Program Officer with Grand Challenges Canada’s Global Health Innovation team, where she leads the Stars in Global Health portfolio. This program provides funding to explore transformative ideas at the proof-of-concept stage.

Prior to leading the Stars in Global Health portfolio, Dominique supported GCC’s Saving Brains portfolio as a Program Associate. Before joining GCC, Dominique lived and worked in Haiti for several years. As an IYIP intern, she conducted research on local agroforestry systems and the impact of urban sprawl on coastal environments. As the Agriculture Programs Coordinator for Meds & Food for Kids, Dominique managed the research, farmer extension, and local procurement initiatives of the organization, acting as the implementing partner lead for a Feed the Future Innovation Lab project. She has also spent time in Ghana with the Osu Children’s Library and the Play and Learn Foundation, supporting their work in education and youth leadership. Following her most recent role with the Play and Learn Foundation, Dominique joined GCC wishing to leverage this experience to best support innovators working to address various global health challenges.

Dominique holds a BA in International Development Studies from the University of Guelph and a Post-Graduate Certificate in Program Management for International Development from the Humber Business School.