Board of Directors: Driving HCBA’s Mission

President | Elnök 

   He has made significant contributions to fostering connections and strengthening cultural ties within the Canadian community. Through his leadership, Mr. Balla has been instrumental in supporting Hungarian businesses in Canada, helping them thrive while promoting Hungarian traditions and values in the Canadian market. His dedication to the Hungarian Canadian community aligns with the mission of the HCBA, which works to support and connect Hungarian businesses in Canada. 

Honorary President | Tiszteletbeli elnök

  Founder of Corvina Company, Eszter Toth has been instrumental in the Canadian Hungarian business community since 2004. Corvina provides high-quality printing and publishing services, including the popular Corvina Hungarian Canadian Business Directory. In 2009, Eszter initiated the HCBA to support and connect Hungarian businesses in Canada, fostering collaboration within the community. Her commitment has greatly supported and enriched the Canadian Hungarian business network. 

 Vice-president | Alelnök 

 Originally from Budapest and now based in Toronto, Daniel Loszmann brings over 20 years of experience in hospitality and commerce in both Hungary and Canada. As the exclusive distributor for the Hungarian artisanal chocolate brand chocoMe, he is dedicated to supporting Hungarian businesses in Canada. Actively involved in the Canadian Hungarian community, Daniel is committed to fostering cultural and business connections through his role at the HCBA. His wife also contributes to the community by running a private school based on the Hungarian Peto method, and together, they proudly raise their three children in Toronto. 

 Secretary General | Főtitkár 

  With over 12 years of experience in the banking industry, Sharlette has developed expertise in direct mail marketing, credit card development, and project management across various financial institutions. Her background includes roles in Event Planning, Product Programming, and Project Management, providing her with a comprehensive understanding of marketing and process management. As a Certified Communications Project Manager (CCPM) and certified in process management (BPM), Sharlette’s skills are valuable in supporting HCBA’s initiatives, particularly in areas of project coordination, marketing, and member engagement. Her diverse professional experience and commitment to excellence make her a strong asset to the association’s board. 

 Director of Real-estate and Developement | Ingatlan-és fejlesztési ügyekért felelős igazgató

 A top-producing, award-winning residential Real Estate Broker since 2003, Judith is also a licensed Mortgage Broker with the Financial Services Commission of Ontario (FSCO) and a member of the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) and Toronto Real Estate Board (TREB). With a background in accounting and finance, she has previously held management positions in major banks. Judith is deeply involved in her community, serving as the President of the Hungarian Canadian Cultural Centre and contributing to various Hungarian organizations. Her professional expertise and dedication to family and community make her a valuable asset to the HCBA. 

  Director of Diplomatic Affairs | Diplomáciai ügyekért felelős igazgató

   Born in Satu Mare, Romania, Chisu has a distinguished career spanning engineering, international trade, military service, and politics. He holds a degree in engineering physics and a Master's in Engineering from the University of Toronto. He served as an engineer and project manager, and later as an expert advisor in international cooperation and technology transfer. Chisu has played a key role in strengthening relations between Hungary, Romania, and Canada, earning prestigious honors such as the Knights Cross of the Hungarian Order of Merit and the Officer Cross of the Romanian Order of Merit. He also served in the Canadian Forces and was deployed on several peacekeeping missions. Chisu’s leadership and community involvement make him a respected member of HCBA, where his expertise in international relations and engineering continues to benefit Canadian-Hungarian business ties. 

Director of Medical Affairs | Egészségügyért felelős igazgató

Born in Székelyudvarhely, now working as a surgeon in Toronto, András Fecső is deeply involved in the Hungarian community. As the former president and current vice president of the Hungarian Canadian Cultural Centre (Toronto Hungarian House), András has dedicated significant efforts to preserving and promoting Hungarian culture. In addition, András is an active member of St. Elizabeth's Church and the Orbán Balázs Society. In the role of Health Director at HCBA, András seeks to combine professional expertise with a strong sense of Hungarian identity, aiming to strengthen the connections and collaboration among Canadian Hungarians, especially in the healthcare sector. 

 Director of Marketing | Marketing igazgató

 The President of KFA Architects and Planners Inc. and CEO of Arkilio Inc., based in Toronto, Kregg is an entrepreneur with deep expertise in architecture, planning, and using emerging technologies like blockchain to improve the building industry. Through his companies, Kregg works to drive innovation and solve key challenges in the construction sector.
Kregg’s entrepreneurial mindset and technological expertise are highly relevant to HCBA. His innovative approach can contribute to advancing the interests of HCBA members, particularly those in the building and tech sectors. 

 Director of Alcohol and Beverage | Italkereskedelmi igazgató 

 Joseph Safian is a hospitality professional with extensive experience in the restaurant and wine industries. Born into a Hungarian family of restaurateurs, he has worked in top Canadian establishments, including the Fairmont Royal York Hotel, Kind Edward Hotel, Auberge du Pommier, Sheraton Gateway Hotel, Markland Wood Country Club, Ladies’ Golf Club of Toronto, and Granite Golf Club. A certified Sommelier, Joseph has been promoting Hungarian wines in Canada through Vinum Tokaj Canada Inc. His expertise in hospitality and wine makes him a valuable asset to HCBA, supporting Hungarian businesses in Canada, particularly in the food and beverage sectors. 

Director of Tourism | Turizmusért felelős igazgató

   A geography teacher, tour guide, and travel agent with extensive experience in creating memorable travel experiences across Europe and North Africa. Through the Hungarian Canadian Business Association, Ildiko is focused on promoting Hungary's rich tourism offerings, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites, thermal baths, river cruises, and wine tours, to Canadian travelers. Her goal is to increase the visibility and appreciation of Hungary as a top destination for tourists in Canada, supporting Hungarian businesses in the tourism sector. 

Director of Agricultural Product | Mezőgazdasági termékekért felelős igazgató 

 Also known as Margaret Szabo, is a co-owner of Mr. Dairy & Food Distributing Ltd. in Toronto, a family-run milk distribution business established in 1995. She is deeply involved in her community, serving on the Bradford Terry Fox Run Committee and the Economic Development Advisory Committee for Bradford West Gwillimbury. Margie organized a Hungarian Flag Raising event in 2016 to commemorate the 60th Anniversary of the Hungarian Revolution. As Director of Agricultural Products for HCBA, she supports Hungarian businesses in Canada, particularly in the food and agriculture sectors.