Allyesa Stewart has worked for Autism Ontario since 2015. She has demonstrated a commitment to developing and executing a diverse range of programs tailored to meet the needs of autistic individuals across all age groups. These initiatives have been instrumental in fostering social integration and providing inclusive environments within Niagara and beyond. Allyesa's dedication extends beyond program implementation; she actively promotes advocacy for inclusivity, ensuring that self-advocates play a pivotal role in shaping the support frameworks offered.

Andrea Sacco, the Owner of You Empower Tomorrow has a passion towards empowering individuals to take control over their lives and helps people and teams with following their dreams and achieving success.
With a background in health promotion, social media marketing, strategic planning & wellness Andrea has combined her unique skills to support people, businesses and communities with discovering and pursuing their purpose. She offers business & social media consulting, programs, and workshops to help businesses and people THRIVE professionally and personally.

Angelica Masterson opened the doors at The Vintage Venture in December 2022. Her passion for vintage treasures and community connection drove her to create a space for vintage enthusiasts and local artisans alike. In 2023, The Vintage Venture was recognized with multiple awards in the Niagara Falls Readers Choice awards, including best antique store, best consignment/thrift store, and best overall service-shopping. The Vintage Venture thrives as a collective effort, boasting over 50 local antique dealers and artisans, each contributing to its eclectic charm. Angelica's vision extends beyond business success; she fosters a vibrant space with a focus on the sustainability of second hand and supporting local artists and small business owners.

A strong believer in lifelong learning and community service, Becky Sciliberto’s journey through Niagara College's financial landscape is marked by thoughtful innovation and steadfast compliance. A rule follower by nature, Becky has taken a lighthearted approach to finance and compliance, where her dedication to process efficiencies and innovative solutions has led to significant advancements in student and operational finance systems. Becky’s leadership implemented landmark initiatives like the CIBC International Student Pay system, Salesforce, Niagara College - Toronto, and the Essential Services Audit Framework. Becky's passion extends beyond her role, notably as Co-Chair for the United Way Niagara workplace campaign, where she drove unprecedented fundraising and engagement.

With over a decade of clinical behavioural services experience, Brittany Davy addresses complex care needs in youth and adults with mental illness and intellectual developmental delay. A Board-Certified Behaviour Analyst and Clinical Supervisor at Anchor Rehab, Brittany is a doctoral candidate at McMaster University and has received a national award for her research on Black women and breast cancer mortality. She has worked as a teaching assistant for 6 years at McMaster and Brock University’s in their graduate and undergraduate courses. Brittany enriches her community through extensive volunteer work in breast cancer initiatives, the Black Student Mentorship Program, ONTABA, and foodbanks.

Diana Aquino, a Niagara resident since 2012, serves as Municipal Relations Manager at Walker Industries. In this role, she actively identifies and advances business opportunities, oversees critical processing contracts, and maintains strong client relationships. She plays a crucial role in securing both existing and new business ventures by implementing performance-enhancing strategies based on customer insights, comprehensive market analysis, and data-driven evidence. Her commitment to giving back and supporting the well-being of the region's community is evident through her personal volunteer efforts and participation in company-sponsored events, aligning perfectly with Walker's principle of contributing to the social, economic, and environmental well-being of our communities.

Elyse Lappano is a disability services professional with more than 15 years of experience working directly with disabled populations; and training support personnel across North America using an embodied perspective and applied approach. Her passion for informing systemic change led to the launch of Lappano Howe Consulting; advocating for dignified, authentic engagement of disabled groups in their communities, and helping organizations move beyond tokenistic engagement to create more inclusive spaces. Elyse’s background in disability service provision allows her to approach her role as Manager, Student Information & Services at Brock University in a way that is equitable and ensures policies and operations are accessible.

Jeremy Phillips, born and raised in Niagara Falls, has a profound passion for construction and home building. As a Project Manager at Centennial Homes Niagara Inc., his role has been instrumental in expanding community development initiatives. Committed to creating vibrant communities, Centennial, with Jeremy on board, actively engages in local initiatives and supports vital charities like Project S.H.A.R.E, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and the Niagara Children's Centre. Recognized as the Company of the Year in 2023 by the Niagara Home Builders Association, Centennial takes pride in its community involvement. Jeremy is thrilled about Centennial's recent partnership with Habitat for Humanity to construct affordable townhouses in Thorold, reinforcing their commitment to enhancing lives in the region.

Lisa D’Amboise, the Director of Financial Accounting & Controller at Brock University, has deep roots both in Niagara as a life-long resident, and Brock where she earned her Bachelor of Accounting. Following graduation, Lisa pursued her Chartered Professional Accountant designation and gained valuable experience in public accounting at KPMG. It was there that her passion for not-for-profit organizations flourished, leading her back to her alma mater. Throughout her decade-long journey at Brock, Lisa has demonstrated adaptability and commitment as she has successfully navigated though various roles. She has also served on community Boards and Committees, most recently Tourism Partnership of Niagara.

Maya Saggar is the Owner and Learning Experience Designer at Impact Learning. Impact Learning was founded in 2021 as a first-of-its-kind learning development agency that supports businesses in the creation and implementation of learning experiences. Maya is currently working towards completing her Doctor of Education in Educational Research, leveraging her academic pursuits to inform and enhance learning strategies for clients. With a passion for innovative learning solutions, Maya brings expertise in instructional design, technology integration, and learner engagement to every project. Beyond the office, Maya creates an Impact in the Niagara Region through her role as a youth dance teacher and choreographer.

Mike Britton, born and raised in St. Catharines, Niagara, has dedicated his career to improving our community. In 2014, at the age of 24, he was elected as the youngest City Councillor in St Catharines history and became a Niagara Regional Councillor in 2022. Mike serves on many not-for-profit volunteer boards – such as Crime Stoppers and Habitat for Humanity – and is a proud member of other community groups like Rotary, The Royal Canadian Legion, and Leadership Niagara. Mike is currently the Manager of Government Relations for ONpoint Strategy Group, using his political experience to advance both Niagara and his clients’ interests.

Since its inception in 2011 as the Burlington Twins, Ryan Harrison has been integral to the Intercounty Baseball League franchise. Transitioning from a game day employee to Director of Operations under the Burlington Bandits, Ryan orchestrated the team's success both on and off the field. After a stint with the Hamilton Bulldogs Hockey Club, he, along with Jason and Dan, formed the Burlington Herd Baseball Club in 2017, later relocating to Welland as the Jackfish in 2019. Under Ryan's leadership, the Jackfish have shattered attendance records annually, contributing $71,000 to local charities in 2023 alone and a total of $114,000 since their relocation.

Tayler Book co-founded Beechwood Doughnuts in 2015, Niagara's first and only 100% vegan doughnut shop. Located in the heart of Downtown St. Catharines, Beechwood Doughnuts quickly gained popularity and a reputation for quality in the Niagara Region and beyond. Tayler approaches business with social good in mind by supporting initiatives that reduce waste, promote a living wage, and help community members in need. Beechwood is a proud partner of YWCA Niagara Region and an Ontario Living Wage Employer.

Yvonne Niwahereza, founder of Breathe88, transitioned from finance to her true calling in April 2023, focusing on Transformative Art. She believes in its potential to revolutionize human and business interactions by restoring genuine connections. Additionally, Yvonne volunteers at Pathstone and Community Crew, demonstrating her commitment to community and positive change. Through her work and volunteer efforts, she embodies the principles of transformative art, aiming to create balance and authenticity in every aspect of life.

Alyssa Waldes’ passion for events, tourism and hospitality shines in her role as a Conference Sales Manager at White Oaks Resort & Spa. With her positive and adaptable mindset, she has proven her tenacity and resilience throughout her career. Committed to education, Alyssa has a BBA from the Goodman School of Business at Brock University, a Certificate in Event and Meeting Planning from Canadian Tourism College, and designations as a Certified Meeting Professional and Digital Event Strategist. She is an active volunteer in the community and beyond, including at Canada’s largest events such as the CFL Grey Cup, and the Juno Awards.

Andrew Harwood is passionate about community engagement and social impact. With previous experience at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Niagara, and BGC Niagara, he is now a Program Coordinator with the City of St. Catharines where he continues to make a positive difference in the community. He also does consulting work locally with the Kristen French Child Advocacy Centre, and nationally with BGC Canada. He also serves on the Niagara Community Foundation's Grant Review Committee and oversees a charitable fund which donates to organizations both in Niagara and across the province.

Ashley Avis Wasilewicz, Founder and CEO of Ashley Avis Marketing Inc., spearheads a boutique marketing agency focused on authentic online marketing strategies that deliver results. Beginning with personalized client interactions, Ashley's visionary leadership has cultivated her agency into a team of four. Known for her expertise, she fosters enduring connections throughout Niagara, offering invaluable marketing insights through her acclaimed podcast, The Ashley Avis Podcast, and her impactful keynote talks at local business events. With an unwavering commitment to authenticity and simplicity, Ashley continues to revolutionize the marketing landscape, empowering small business owners with innovative strategies that resonate and drive success.

Brent King founded and currently operates RORE Real Estate, an independent brokerage, as well as Royal Oak Property Developments, a residential and commercial development firm. In 2023 Brent was elected as a Board of Director at RECO, Ontario’s Real Estate Regulator. Brent is also a volunteer Board of Director with the Greater Fort Erie Youth Soccer Club, as well as a soccer coach for the past few years. Brent hosts an annual summer festival called RORE FEST in Fort Erie where he brings together the community to enjoy free fun activities, live music/performances, and a movie under the stars.

Calissa Ngozi is an award-winning inspirational speaker, a professor, and a distinguished professional with a wealth of experience in the fields of mental health, education, hospital care, and acquired brain injury, spanning over two decades. Calissa has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to providing exceptional mental health behavior support services through her private practice in collaboration with Bartimaeus Inc., and as a Resilience Mentor to youth struggling with life transitions.
Her contributions to the mental health and education communities have been instrumental in shaping the future of social services and inspiring positive change.

Dina Senior is 1 of 3 founders of Improv Niagara, a performing arts company specializing in Improv comedy classes, performances and team building. With 27 years of experience in Improv and dramatic arts, Dina has a passion for teaching specifically to youth, beginners and people in the IBPOC community. Dina has been involved in various community arts festivals throughout the Niagara Region, such as Culture Days, In the Soil Festival, The River Arts Festival, Niagara Falls Night of Art and Garden City Comedy Festival. Dina is from Welland and is a member of The Algonquins of Pikwàkanagàn First Nations.

Erin Hagar, HR expert at SunOpta Inc and owner of Human Resources Solutions Niagara, cultivates vibrant, inclusive work environments driving success. With a decade's experience in manufacturing, including food production and aerospace, Erin shapes comprehensive HR strategies and innovative methodologies. She extends expertise to part-time HR services in the Niagara Region. Erin champions community initiatives, supporting Women's Place of South Niagara, CMHA, Brain Injury Association of Fort Erie, Community Care, and local food banks. Committed to empowering women, she mentors future female leaders, emphasizing her dedication to fostering inclusivity and success.

Jonathan Belgrave is a marketing professional specializing in higher education. Jonathan, a Trinidadian native and second-generation Brock alumnus with a Bachelor of Accounting, has always had roots in Niagara. His passion for life-long learning and community involvement is reflected in his roles at Brock PCS and beyond. Jonathan has spent over a decade committed to community service through chairing several St. Catharines City Committees, supporting Pride Niagara (He’s a 2023 Ed Eldridge Unity Award recipient), sitting as an executive of St. Catharines and Port-of-Spain Twinning Association, mentoring for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Niagara and more.

Mandy Cavasin, Senior Development Officer at Niagara Children’s Centre, began her career in fundraising at Brock University's Annual Fund and United Way Niagara. For the last two years, Mandy has played a vital role at Niagara Children’s Centre and was an integral part of their most successful campaign. Beyond her professional roles, Mandy gives back as a Board Member for OUTniagara, supporting LGBTQ communities, and serves on the Board of Directors for AFP Golden Horseshoe, advocating for excellence in the charitable sector.

Megan McRae is the Community Relations Specialist at the City of Thorold, where she leads all communications, marketing and community relations efforts for the City. With a Masters Degree and Graduate Certificate in Public Relations, Megan has grown her career in Niagara, having worked at Niagara Health and Walker Industries prior to joining the City of Thorold team in 2022. An alumnus of Leadership Niagara, Megan is a dedicated community volunteer and has proudly served on the Niagara Falls Soup Kitchen’s Board of Directors. Megan calls Welland home where she lives with her partner, Kyle and son, Wesley.

Peta-Ann McCaulsky began her banking career with Royal Bank of Canada on January 8, 2018, as a Client Advisor. In 2019, she completed her Investment Certification and was promoted to Banking Advisor, where she excelled in the role. Currently, Branch Manager at RBC Ridgeway, Peta-Ann is the lead for the Black Professional Network (ERG): Niagara Chapter, cabinet member of RBC’s My Community Employee Giving, RBC Newcomer Council member, and volunteers teaching youth at her local church. Peta-Ann recently performed Negro Spirituals in the Celebration of Harriet Tubman Day held at the Salem Chapel BME Church in St. Catharines, honoring Harriet’s legacy.

Samantha Forbes is a catalyst for change in the fight against gender-based violence. With her Professional Addiction Studies Diploma from McMaster University and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Brock University, Samantha blends education with a passion for social justice. Samantha serves as Birchway Niagara's Manager of Prevention and Public Education; responsible for the development of a prevention-based education program with aims to end gender-based violence. An energetic speaker and educator, Samantha shares her extensive knowledge to build a safer, equitable society. Supported by her family, she's proud to work toward Birchway Niagara’s vision of a community without abuse.

Teegan Sirianni is a dedicated community organizer, leading the TELUS team and community members in volunteer events in the Niagara region for the last 7 years. They champion causes like Heartland Forest, Niagara Dog Rescue and Gillian's Place, and promote digital literacy through TELUS Wise programs. In 2018, Teegan received a Community Champion Award from TELUS, and in 2022, accepted the Corporate Sponsor Award from the City of Niagara Falls on behalf of TELUS. As a parent, Teegan involves their son in volunteerism, fostering a spirit of giving back and inspiring the next generation.

Ana McKnight is an award-winning communications professional with 17-years of experience bringing dynamic storytelling to life. Trained in graphic design, she creates multimedia content at Niagara College that conveys concepts, informs audiences, shares experiences, and solves problems. As a trilingual individual, Ana is passionate about linguistics and writing, and recently upgraded her skills to become a certified English as a Second Language instructor to support international students and newcomers to Canada. In her spare time, Ana volunteers regularly to support local food banks and community outreach services. Ana holds post-secondary degrees from the University of Toronto, York University, and Niagara College.

For over a decade, Andrew Korchok has honed his public relations skills in Niagara. Starting at Niagara Region, he later joined Niagara College, securing media coverage for innovative programs. Since 2022, he's led Niagara Region Public Health's Communications and Engagement team, shaping their message during the pandemic and beyond. Andrew holds a BA in Liberal Arts from Brock University and a Graduate Certificate in Public Relations from Niagara College. He obtained his Accreditation in Public Relations from the Canadian Public Relations Society in 2022 and volunteers to help PR professionals advance their careers.

Bailey Charles is dedicated to supporting the growth and prosperity of businesses in Niagara. In her professional capacity as a Senior Account Manager with the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC), and as a member of the Board of Directors of the Niagara Industrial Association, she provides local businesses with strategic guidance, facilitates access to financial resources, and offers insightful perspectives to help entrepreneurs navigate challenges and seize opportunities. Bailey holds a Bachelor of Business Administration (Honours) degree from Brock University, and carries the CPA, CMA designation.

Brilee Sears joined the Town of Pelham in 2023 in the newly formed role of grant specialist after immigrating to Canada in 2022. Since that time, she has submitted over $40 million in grant applications to sup port projects, ranging from infrastructure improvements to recreational activities. Within her role, Brilee also enjoys getting to support the work of local non-profit organizations as she assists them in applying for grants. Outside of work, Brilee remains an active volunteer, working with the 10th Welland Scouting Group as a Cub Scout Leader and with Rotary Youth Exchange students as they participate in year-long international exchanges.

Chris Ventura is a long-time community builder. With over 10 years of experience in not-for-profit Board leadership, Chris brings his time and talents in governance and advocacy to support organizations he strongly believes in such as the Canadian Mental Health Association and the Brock University Alumni Association, where he serves as Vice-President and President respectively. Chris’ dedication to building bridges in communities is cultivated through his work as the Senior Experiential Education Coordinator for the Goodman School of Business. Through this role, Chris connects industry to academics by creating opportunities for students to make meaningful impacts solving local business challenges.

Dr. Raynold Wonder Alorse is a seasoned leader whose career has spanned pivotal roles within the Government of Canada, Government of Ontario, financial services, infotech, non-profits and international organizations. His scholarly achievements and community activities have garnered recognition through prestigious scholarships and awards, including the United Way Community Builder Award, the Joseph-Armand Bombardier Canada Graduate Scholarship, and the Nelson Mandela Award. Dr. Alorse also contributes to the development of upcoming leaders at Canada's premier business school, the Smith School of Business (Queen's University). He is committed to raising purpose-inspired leaders to transform the world with their vision and actions.

Jaime Giles is a proud lifelong Niagara resident who has always been passionate about community and an advocate for social justice and equity. She is currently Manager, Cash Management at TD Commercial Banking where she had led numerous community and charitable volunteer initiatives supporting local non-profit organizations including Community Crew, Shoebox Project, and the United Way. In 2023, she was recognized with the TD Community Showcase Award. As a member of the GNCC's Women in Niagara (WIN) Council and a TD Accredited Women in Enterprise Banker, Jaime is dedicated to facilitating the growth and success of women in business across Niagara.

Kiara Theodosopoulos, a Niagara resident for 15 years, graduated from Niagara College in 2015 with a diploma in Business Administration - Human Resource Management. With 9 years of HR leadership across various industries, Kiara is known for her empathy and innovation. Recently appointed Human Resource Manager at Airbus Helicopters Canada, she's also an active volunteer and United Way Niagara ambassador. Chairing the GenNext young professionals committee and serving on the 2023 Campaign Cabinet, Kiara champions community leadership. Joining the Board of Directors for Leadership Niagara, she advocates for trade skills development and community empowerment. Residing in Welland with her husband and two sons, they explore Niagara's rich community spaces.

Matt Leask, a partner at LCW Lawyers in St. Catharines, offers a comprehensive range of legal services, specializing in corporate, commercial, real estate, and estate law, as well as intellectual property advice. With an undergraduate degree from the University of Waterloo and a graduate certificate in international business management from Niagara College, he earned his Juris Doctor (J.D.) from Osgoode Hall Law School and was called to the Ontario Bar in 2016. Matt is also a registered trademark agent. Beyond law, he volunteers on the Board of Directors for CAA Niagara and the Workforce Collective, dedicating his time to community service.

Michael Zappitelli, Executive Chef at BarrelHead Wine Pizza Patio at Pillitteri Estates Winery, has made significant strides in the culinary world over 19 years. Most recently, He founded and created BarrelHead in 2020, swiftly establishing it as a top dining and entertainment spot in Niagara. His menus showcase local ingredients, and his vision of showcasing local musicians daily, reflects his deep commitment to community and culinary excellence. Through innovative leadership, Michael's efforts have propelled BarrelHead's growth, enhancing Pillitteri's hospitality reputation and affirming his standout role in food and beverage service.

Robert Barber is a licensed paralegal and the founder and CEO of Prevail Paralegal Services, a legal services firm with locations operating throughout southwestern Ontario. Robert serves as a Community Councilor with the Niagara Region Métis Council and is the Board Treasurer for ARCH Disability Law Centre. Robert volunteers as a Paralegal Coach with the Coach and Advisor Network of the Law Society of Ontario (LSO) and has been a presenter for professional development programs at the LSO and the Ontario Trial Lawyers Association. Robert resides in St. Catharines and enjoys spending time with his wife and their two children.

Stefanie Vescio Anello grew up in Niagara Falls and focused on academics and athletics from a young age. She earned a Hon. B.A. and M.A. from Wilfrid Laurier University while playing varsity soccer and a J.D. from the University of Ottawa, Faculty of Law. Stefanie has over 10 years of experience in civil litigation at Downtown Toronto and Niagara firms. She is now an Associate Counsel in Regulatory Services at the Law Society of Ontario, which regulates Ontario’s lawyers and paralegals. Stefanie is passionate about her community and eventually moved back home to start a family. She is often found coaching soccer, volunteering for her children’s school, or supporting local charity events.

St. Catharines native Wes Keller, with a Sound Engineering degree from Recording Arts Canada, embarked on a dynamic journey in music and production. From aiding artists like Nelly on the Jay Leno Show to touring and opening for bands like USS & Sublime, Wes honed diverse skills and a passion for creativity. His talents earned a nomination for Best Canadian Music Video at the Canadian Independent Music Video Awards in 2020, securing 2nd place nationally. Transitioning to directing and producing, he founded Black Frame Cinema, achieving six-figure revenue and winning Best Videography and Photography Service in the Niagara Region. Expanding further, Wes established "Black Frame Studios," set for a grand opening in June 2024.