John is the founder and managing director of Pinel & Associates, a firm dedicated to strengthening marginalized communities.

John’s interest in advocacy and community development was sparked in high school by Richard Salter, a noted sociologist and Aboriginal rights lawyer. Taking Salter’s advice, John pursued a degree in Anthropology from the University of British Columbia. Upon completion, John worked for the Semiahmoo First Nation, gaining influential negotiation skills under the guidance of Grand Chief and lawyer, Bernard Charles, also mentored by Salter. Encouraged by Charles, John enrolled in an MPhil/PhD program at the London School of Economics (LSE), focusing on social policy to better advocate for marginalized groups.

Throughout his career, John has contributed significantly to community development in several countries. He has led a US non-profit to notable success for helping under-funded NYC schools create sports programming for their students. He has secured funding for educational and health facilities in Canada and abroad. And he has advised national and local governments on education, health, and environmental sustainability policies.

John’s work has earned him several accolades, such as the Major League Soccer (MLS) Community MVP Award and the prestigious Titmuss Prize from the LSE for his work in social policy and development studies.

John's mission is to use his skills, education, experience and professional connections to further the interests of under-served and under-funded communities.