OUR TEAM
Brad Buie
Executive Director
Brad Buie serves as the Executive Director of Lake Country Health. In this role, he leads a team dedicated to supporting and advancing the health and wellbeing of our Lake Country community. Brad graduated from the University of Victoria in 1999 with a Bachelor of Arts with Distinction in English Literature.
Brad worked for four years from 2018 to 2022 at Interior Health on the communications team. His portfolio included surgical, population and public health, and pandemic communications. He then served as Manager, Communications and Engagement, at the Faculty of Health and Social Development, UBC Okanagan, for three years. Brad is passionate about building teams and partnerships to provide equitable, compassionate care for all members of our community.
He is a father to two daughters. Together with his wife and extended family all residing in Lake Country, he enjoys hiking with the family whippets, playing polo in the spring and summer, and skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. He is also an avid reader and marathon runner.
Phone: 778-215-5247 ext. 5
Email: executivedirector@lakecountryhealth.ca
Santo Joseph
Senior Services Coordinator
As the Senior Services and Volunteer Coordinator at Lake Country Health, I support older adults in our community to age with dignity by connecting them to essential non-medical services. These include system navigation, technology assistance, meal delivery, housekeeping, yard work, and snow removal. I also manage key volunteer programs such as friendly visitor/caller and volunteer transportation—initiatives that promote connection, independence, and a strong sense of support for seniors in Lake Country. Additionally, I oversee our broader volunteer network, ensuring community needs are met through the meaningful contributions of our volunteers.
I host a community coffee group for seniors—a welcoming platform where older adults can build social connections and learn about available programs and resources. I also oversee our free tax clinic program, which assists individuals with moderate incomes in completing their tax returns accurately and on time.
I hold a Bachelor of Commerce with a major in Finance from the University of Calicut in India (2014), and a diploma in Marketing and Business Administration from Conestoga College in Ontario (2020). Before joining Lake Country Health, I gained experience in accounting and administrative roles in India and the UAE.
Originally from India, I moved to Canada in 2019 and now call Kelowna home. I live here with my wife and our young daughter. Outside of work, I enjoy playing badminton and soccer, spending time outdoors, and going fishing whenever I can.
Phone: 778-215-5247 ext. 2
Email: office@lakecountryhealth.ca
Emma Birch
Mental Health Coordinator and Facilitator
As the Mental Health Coordinator and Facilitator at Lake Country Health, I support individuals through program development, group facilitation, outreach, and partnerships with local organizations. My work focuses on reducing barriers to mental health support, addressing social isolation, and creating welcoming spaces for meaningful connection. Our programs include a Grief Support Group, Guided Hiking Group, Walk & Talk Group, and Counsellor Navigation.
I graduated from the University of Guelph in 2023 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a minor in Family & Child Studies. I moved to the Okanagan in 2024 and began my Master of Clinical Social Work at the University of British Columbia Okanagan. I'm passionate about supporting individuals, families, and communities while also working to challenge the broader systems of injustice that impact mental health and well-being. I bring experience in mental health programming and advocacy with a strong foundation in child and youth development, and family dynamics. My work is grounded in empathy, collaboration, and a commitment to making mental health care more accessible and inclusive for all.
In my spare time, you can find me at the beach or exploring local trails. I also love thrift shopping, cooking, and watching movies, I’m always open to recommendations!
Phone: 778-215-5247 ext. 3
Email: mental-health@lakecountryhealth.ca
Sarah Holman
Caregiver Support Coordinator and Facilitator
As the Caregiver Support Coordinator and Facilitator at Lake Country Health, I support individuals who are caring for aging loved ones. This role looks different for everyone—it may involve caring for an aging parent, a spouse, extended family member, or friend. Caregiving is often a thankless job, and I aim to give my clients a support system they may not have. We offer biweekly in-person support groups, subsidized professional counselling sessions, informal respite through our Companion Care Break program, and more.
I graduated from the University of Victoria in 2023 with a background in the arts, specializing in writing and digital and interactive media. My previous experience is in marketing and project management, but my time at LCH has reaffirmed that I am a people person at heart. I learn something new everyday and am grateful to support such a wonderful client base.
Having grown up in the Okanagan Valley, giving back to our small community is incredibly meaningful to me. In my free time, I coach junior track and field athletes, play volleyball, hike, enjoy both beach and snow days, and prioritize time with family and friends.
Phone: 778-215-5247 ext. 1
Email: caregiver@lakecountryhealth.ca
Leahna Afseth
Summer Engagement Coordinator
Hi, I'm Leahna, and I’m currently the Summer Engagement Coordinator at Lake Country Health. In this role, I support our outreach and community engagement efforts, helping to connect individuals and families with the programs and services they need most. My focus is on building relationships, spreading awareness, and making sure people feel seen, supported, and informed.
I'm also a student at the University of British Columbia Okanagan (UBCO), where I’m working toward a Bachelor of Arts with a combined major in English and Cultural Studies. My studies have helped me strengthen my skills in communication, critical thinking, and cultural understanding—tools I bring into my work every day.
Having been born and raised in Lake Country, I feel a strong connection to this community. It’s a place that has always supported me, and my goal during my time with Lake Country Health is to give back some of that same care and kindness. I’m passionate about making local resources more accessible and helping create a sense of belonging for everyone who calls this place home.
Phone: 778-215-5247 ext. 4
Email: student@lakecountryhealth.ca