Davina
Co-Artistic Director
Davina is incredibly passionate about Israeli dance, which preserves and celebrates the diverse cultures of the Jewish diaspora. With over 20 years of experience as an instructor, choreographer, and performer, she has made significant contributions to this art form.
Davina was a dancer in Winnipeg's Chai Folk Ensemble for five years before moving to Edmonton, Alberta in 2012. Soon after she joined the AIFDA troupe and has continued to explore and express her Jewish identity through dance.
In addition to her dance pursuits, she works as a Diversity & Inclusion HR Advisor, and serves on the board of directors for the Jewish Federation of Edmonton, where she is also Co-Chair of Genesis, a group for young adults in the Jewish community.
Now, as she transitions into her role as co-artistic director, she is thrilled to lead and inspire the next generation of dancers.
Abby
Co-Artistic Director
Abby is bringing an abundance of enthusiasm to AIFDA as
co-artistic director.
She has been involved with AIFDA for 10+ years and is grateful to be a part of this dance family. Abby is currently pursuing a a degree in nursing.
Growing up doing both competitive and Israeli dance, Abby is beyond excited to share her love and passion with all the dancers this year and begin her new role as co-artistic director.
Dr. Mintoo Basahti graduated from the University of Alberta School of Dentistry and has maintained a private dental practice for over 30 years.
He has been involved in community service roles with the Rotary Club, Big Brothers & Sisters, parent-teacher school liaison groups and his children’s many sports clubs among others.
Professionally, Mintoo is a Past-President of the Edmonton & District Dental Society as well as Past-President of the U of A Dental Alumni Association. He just recently completed 9 years of service on the governing Councils of the Alberta Dental Association & College and the College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta, having served 2 terms as
President as well as Chair of many committees including the Competence Committee, Audit Committee and the Governance and HR Committee.
Currently he sits on the Board and Executive of the National Dental Examination Board as well as being a Board member on the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada.
Philanthropically, Mintoo is committed to the Alberta Dental Foundation and its mission to serve underprivileged Albertans by serving as its current President.
He looks forward to sharing his commitment to open, collaborative and transparent governance with the fantastic leadership team at AIFDA.
In his spare time Mintoo likes to travel, golf and ski.
Mintoo
President 2023/24
Board Members
As a registered society AIFDA follows established bylaws and is run by a Volunteer board.
Sari, Vice President
Natalie, Past President
Rebecca, Treasurer
Tanya, Casino Chair
Rachel, Secretary
Jenna, Social Media and Engagement
Aliya, Rikud Parent Rep.
Aviv/Shemesh Parent Rep., TBA
Meirav, Circle Dance Rep.
By June Laine Photography
Are you interested in learning some folk dance steps and meeting new people?
Recreational circle dance is open to all levels!
Do you have dance training or love to perform? Contact us to see if one of our performance groups is a fit for you!