Joel Downham, originally from London, England, served a distinguished 25-year international career in the British army, and emigrated to Canada in 2022. He is currently in a new role at the Australian High Commission in Ottawa, supporting visiting Australian Forces on exchange programmes with the Canadian Armed Forces. Before his relocation to Ottawa, Joel served as Assistant Defence Attache at the British High Commission in Ghana.  During his tenure in Ghana, he played a pivotal role in garnering support for development initiatives, notably through his participation in the Ghana Grand cycle tour – an esteemed UK initiative to fundraise for local medical charities and promote environment, inclusion, and girls’ education in remote areas – by cycling the length of Ghana (1175 km) in 8 days as co-cyclist alongside the British High Commissioner.

Outside of his professional endeavours, Joel is a passionate cyclist.  He has fallen in love with Ottawa and has a local reputation for his expertise in bicycle repairs.  Joel is often found exploring on long walks and hikes in the Ottawa and Gatineau area with his wife Beverly.