Aida Fernandes is the current Executive Director of the IMAGINE Network – a patient-oriented research initiative in gastrointestinal diseases. Aida has over 15 years of experience in research administration and strategic partnerships in the health charitable sector. Aida was the Vice-President of Research & Patient Programs at Crohn’s and Colitis Canada (CCC) where she oversaw the organization’s research, patient education and advocacy programs for the Canadian IBD community. Prior to her time at CCC, Aida worked at Cystic Fibrosis Canada in several different capacities, including Manager, Chapter Relations; Director, Volunteer & Personnel Resources; and Director, Medical/Scientific and Community Programs.
Aida also has served on a number of governing bodies in the voluntary health sector including: Public Health Agency of Canada’s Respiratory Diseases Surveillance Advisory Committee, HealthPartners Board of Directors, Health Charities’ Coalition of Canada Research Committee, Canadian Genetics Coalition, CIHR’s Institute of Infection and Immunity Institute Advisory Board, and the Canadian Blood Services’ National Liaison Committee.
Aida holds a bachelor’s degree in Human Biology from the University of Toronto and a Master of Business Administration in Non-Profit Management & Leadership from York University’s Schulich School of Business.