Team Members

Arash Janfada (AJ) is a Professional Engineer (P.Eng) with nearly 20 years of experience in designing and delivering research and regulatory programs, developing policy frameworks, and technical teaching materials. He has managed projects in academic settings with the University of Saskatchewan, The National Hydrology Research Institute, the BC and Saskatchewan provincial governments, as well multimillion dollar budget projects as a consulting engineer. He has been a student of guitar for over 10 years, and worked with his teacher, project partner, and friend Bob Helgason, towards developing a music lesson curriculum. In virtually every professional position he’s held, a significant component of AJ’s work has cultivated the ability to recognize gaps in knowledge, whether in internal policy development, developing guidance, or structuring program delivery. When combined with his knowledge of music, and love for teaching, AJ’s primary role is to assist in lesson content development, management of lesson design, managing the architectural development of the curriculum, and overseeing development of program’s user interface.

Michael McAllister is originally from rural Alberta, and from a young age was impacted by exposure to some excellent musicians (Kathleen Van Mourik, Charles Foreman). Michael completed his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in engineering at the University of Saskatchewan. He later moved to Edmonton, Alberta, with his family so that his children could learn at the Suzuki Charter School for music. At ages 10 and 13, the children currently contribute to the Edmonton Youth Orchestra and the Alberta Children’s Choir, among other musical endeavors. Michael is aware that music has a significant impact on the development of cognitive abilities, language skills, creative expression, and empathy. He also realizes that many children don’t have the opportunity for exposure to the variety of musical opportunities that his children have had. He is, therefore, delighted to contribute to a project whose focus is to enrich the lives of people through music education.

Robert (Bob) Helgason is a guitarist, composer, songwriter and performer with over 30 years of experience. He is a graduate of the Jazz Program at Capilano University and has taught students both in-person and online, with skills focused on guitar improvisation and composition in multiple popular genres. Since the early 2010s, Bob has worked in collaboration with Arash Janfada to develop the concept and framework for the Un-holey Guitar Curriculum (UGC). The UGC name itself is a double entendre that alludes to the mission of the program – being a comprehensive music education system that is free of content gaps. Bob has developed a rapport with his students for patiently explaining technical music concepts in a way that is interesting, motivating and immediately applicable to creative musical development. He brings his knowledge, experience and passion for music and education to his role as UGC’s Lead Content Developer, and Technical Program Coordinator. Bob’s role will be to lead in the areas of lesson content development, curriculum architecture design, and liaising with technical advisors.

Mike Silverton is a professional carpenter, proud father, and loving husband living in the picturesque Whistler-Squamish Valley. A craftsman who takes immense pride in his work, Mike is equally committed to giving back to his community. With a deep appreciation for the arts, particularly literature and music, Mike is excited to serve as a director of UGC, where he'll oversee our affairs and guide our engagement with the community to better provide our services. Mike's positive energy, kind approach and sound judgement will be of immense benefit to the UGC team.

Dr. Bayan Mottahed is a general dentist at Mercato Dental Centre, having graduated from Boston University in 2007. He is passionate about integrating advanced technology into dental procedures and takes great pleasure in helping patients achieve their ideal smiles. Dr. Mottahed is an active member of both the BC Dental Association (BCDA) and the Canadian Dental Association (CDA).
Outside of his practice, Dr. Mottahed is kept busy with his four young boys. He enjoys baking, as well as supporting local sports teams like the Whitecaps and Canucks. He is also a strong advocate for community causes, supporting charities such as the BC Children’s Hospital Foundation (BCCHF) and Vancouver General Hospital (VGH).
Dr. Mottahed finds great fulfillment in making a positive impact on his patients’ lives, blending cutting-edge technology with the wisdom and values passed down from his father. He strives to maintain a balanced life, cherishing time spent outdoors with his wife and children. As a father, he instills in his sons the importance of love, care, and community involvement.
In addition to his dental practice, Dr. Mottahed is deeply engaged with multi-faith and multicultural organizations. Recently, he has focused on providing dental care to remote First Nations communities in British Columbia. Through collaboration with charitable initiatives, he often reaches these underserved populations by helicopter, using portable equipment to deliver vital dental services.