Ana Booth, Executive Director of the Canadian National Institute for the Blind’s BC/Yukon Division, brings both professional expertise and personal experience to her role. Guided by CNIB’s mission, Ana is dedicated to empowering individuals with sight loss through innovative programs and advocacy. Below, Ana shares her journey with the Canadian National Institute for the Blind, her leadership approach, and the organization’s impact across BC and the Yukon.
Describe your charity work in a few sentences.
My primary focus is to ensure individuals with sight loss have timely access to high-quality programs throughout the province. This is achieved by fostering strong relationships with internal partners, volunteers, donors, government, and other community stakeholders. Another key part of my role is implementing CNIB’s Strategic Plan in BC and the Yukon, aligning with the national organization to better serve our community of individuals who are blind, Deafblind, or have low vision.
What problem does it aim to solve?
CNIB’s mission is to change what it means to be blind by delivering innovative programs and powerful advocacy. Through awareness, education, and training, we enable Canadians impacted by blindness to fully participate in life. Together, in allyship with our communities, we create opportunities for inclusion and empowerment.
When did you join CNIB?
I joined CNIB as a participant in 2015 and have continued to grow with the organization ever since.
What made you want to get involved?
I have a genetic degenerative eye condition called Retinitis Pigmentosa. Until my 40s, I lived as a fully sighted individual and worked in consulting for 15 years. Gradually, my sight loss began impacting my work, and eventually, I had to stop because I didn’t know how to proceed. A friend introduced me to CNIB, and I initially joined as a participant and then as a volunteer. I’ve been on a mission to explore everything CNIB has to offer, and now, I’m thrilled to have a second career where I can make a difference.
What was the situation like when you started?
When I became an employee in 2020, COVID-19 struck. We quickly had to pivot all our programs to address the isolation brought by the pandemic. My first years at CNIB were spent innovating and creating an entirely new program delivery platform alongside an incredible team here in BC.
How has it changed since?
CNIB has seen significant growth over the past decade, guided by our new Strategic Plan, The Way Forward. Developed in consultation with the sight loss community, this plan has driven the creation of stronger employment programs, better support for children, youth, and their families, and advancements in AI and assistive technology—critical for the sight loss community. We’ve also strengthened our advocacy efforts and expanded free programming for both rural and urban communities across the region.
How can our readers help?
You can support CNIB by volunteering your time, joining our advocacy efforts and campaigns, or donating at cnib.ca/donate. Every contribution makes a meaningful impact on building a barrier-free future.
Where can we follow you?
To learn more about CNIB, visit our website or follow us on Instagram.
PAY IT FORWARD: What is an awesome local charity that you love?
Vancouver Food Bank!
