Staff Members
Janelle Hinds
Founder and Executive Director
An advocate for youth engagement. I started this organization to improve the system and I am always looking to improve our services.
Contact about anything from workshops to joining the team at [email protected]
Taijah Cox-Armstrong
Entrepreneurship Lead
I have 3 years of experience as a program manager and have a bachelor's degree with a law major and English minor from Carleton University. A goal I have during my time at Helping Hands is to connect and impact youth as they start their journeys in working within the community.
Contact at [email protected]
Soha Khan
Operations Assistant
Previously I worked in the IT sector as a Software Manual Tester. My goal here in Helping Hands is to put my knowledge and skills to improve our efforts and work for Youth Empowerment.
Joy Nortei
Research and Evaluation Lead
I am very privileged to work as the Research and Evaluation Lead at Helping Hands! I work with a wonderful team alongside our Youth Research Committee that lead our amazing and innovative community based research activities. I have a background in community development and I am very passionate about supporting future generations to thrive!
Ashvini Muralitharan
Executive Creative Director
Over the past 6 years, Ashvini has volunteered for two nonprofits in the Peel Region: Peel Girls Empowerment Movement (Peel GEMS) and Helping Hands App. At Helping Hands App , Ashvini partook in her first Arts x Advocacy task by designing an Anti Black Racism guidebook that was distributed to students across the Peel Region. It kick started her love for graphic design! Ashvini continues to provide graphic design support, she works alongside a team of inspired activists that use graphic design to bring meaningful change to the community. Ashvini is currently a Medical Radiation Sciences student at McMaster University intending on minoring in a UI/UX field of study.
Taryn DaSilva
Youth Empowerment Coordinator
I am the Youth Empowerment Coordinator leading the BYOU program. Equipped with a degree in Criminology and minor in Child and Youth Work, I guide and support marginalized and at-risk youth. My goal at Helping Hands is to lead programs that empower youth and create positive change in their lives.
Contact at [email protected]
Esther Mugabo
Human Resources Coordinator
Passionate HR professional with over six years of experience advocating for marginalized youth in the community. Dedicated volunteer coordinator managing large teams of volunteers, committed to fostering a positive and inclusive workplace culture. Expertise in strategic HR initiatives, recruitment processes, and impactful training programs, making her an invaluable asset to the Helping Hands team.
Contact at [email protected]
Karolina Dabrowski
Research Associate
As a graduate of Toronto Metropolitan University with a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and an upcoming Master of Social Work Candidate (MSW) at York University, my goal is to continue building the knowledge and skill set necessary to do meaningful work with community members from all walks of life. I aim to build a kinder world by advocating for the "voiceless" in society.
Kim-Yen Tran
Youth Outreach Coordinator
I'm a Master of Social Work candidate at the University of Toronto, and obtained my Bachelors of Social Work from Toronto Metropolitan University. I am dedicated to empowering diverse youth through engagement and volunteer readiness while also cultivating inclusive communities.
Contact at [email protected]
Hena Rafi
Community and Social Service Worker Associate
I recently graduated from York University with a Bachelor is Social Work and have worked in many different organizations in the past. I deliver and promote a lot of programs for Helping Hands through social media and community partners. I reach out to a lot of partners for collaborations in the community, resource sharing, and matching for youth by sharing new opportunities for volunteering, workshops, etc.
Contact at [email protected]
Tiffany Huang
Youth Development Coordinator
I work with delivering engaging and interactive virtual information sessions to youth and community partners, effectively promoting Helping Hands' programs and services. I am a recent Social Work graduate at Toronto Metropolitan University and I am passionate in researching and delivering opportunities, resources and supports to youths ages 13-29.
Contact at [email protected]
Analisa Smit
Outreach Coordinator
Passionate Youth Outreach professional with over 6 years of experience advocating for individuals in need. Dedicated volunteer in local schools and community centers, committed to serving children in need and sharing opportunities for skill development.
Contact at [email protected]
Kelly Du
Project Coordinator
As a project coordinator, I deliver Innovation to promote Youth Civic Engagement. I am passionate about improving the ways we deliver services to young people. I have 2.5 years of experience working with Communities and Youth between the ages of 13-29. I got my BSW from York University in 2020.
Contact at [email protected]
Oneness Esor
Human Resources Associate
A recent graduate in Human Resources Management (Honours). I am experienced in the human resources, admin, finance, and fundraising industries. My goal as a Human Resources professional is to create an inclusive space for all individuals to voice their queries without fear of repercussion. I am passionate about propelling diversity in the Human Resources field.
Volunteers and Placement Students
Susanne Ho
Child and Youth Care, Student Placement
Rowda Mohamed
Child and Youth Care, Student Placement
Hi there, My name is Rowda Mohamed and I am currently in my fourth year of Child and Youth Care at Toronto Metropolitan University. I am very eager and excited to be apart of the team here at Helping Hands. My goal is to acheive great success during my time here, and network with those in different fields. Looking forward to it!
Saima Shafi
Administrative Asssociate
I am currenly a second year Medical Radiation Science at University of Toronto. I am very excited to connect with youth and help them connect to organizations. One of my biggest goals is to create leaders and persuade young people into taking decisions which will better the future.
Alayne Spencer
Youth Research Committee Member
I am a high school student who wants others to be heard.
Helen Chen
Youth Research Committee Member
I am in my final year of my design undergrad with a focus on community arts and public art, as well as a minor in geography. Interested in listening and learning with my community to create youth-led civic change from the ground up. Hopefully, a future Public Policy masters student!
Mahdere (Madi) Fikremariam
Administrative Asssociate Volunteer
I am a high school student passionate about volunteering and experiencing new things.
Kenicha Lynch
Social Media Associate
I am a Grade 11 Highscool Student who is very keen on getting volunteer experience with this organization. I am excited to learn and develop new skills that will help me in my future.
Akshita Kumar
Administrative Asssociate Volunteer
I am a first year university student passionate about volunteering in the community. I am excited to learn more about the admin side of an organization and develop my communication skills.
Pranavi Kavuru
Volunteer
I am a 10th grade student looking forward to be more involved with the youth in the area while gaining social skills.
Shagul Sherwani
Administrative and Social Media Associate
I'm a recent graduate of the Office Administration program at Mohawk College. I'm very excited and eager to be part of the Helping Hands team. Passionate about helping others and making a positive impact on youth. I look forward to gaining and developing my social media and administrative skills while fostering meaningful connections and contributing to the betterment of our community.
Anasuya Duvvuri
Administrative Assistant
Hi everyone! I am an 11th grader. I am looking forward to be more involved in my community. I am excited to learn and gain new expereinces from this oppurtunity.
Previous Team Members
Abdul Kareem
Software Developer
Brings his experience as Digital Asset Management Analyst to the team.
Aiman Zada
Policy and Political Associate
I am a final-year Sociology and International Development Studies student who is passionate about helping others and creating program iniatives that provide support to youth, refugees, people of colour, and minority groups.
Aiza Ahmed
Administrative Associate
A high school student interested in creativity and researching. Outstanding your skill in this helping hand community. Incredible amazing and has good workers that can help you.
Amy Cao
Software Developer
I am an engineering student who is fascinated by machine learning and software development.
Amy Li
Administrative Associate
I am a Medical Sciences student who is invested in self-development, volunteering and building meaningful relationships.
Andrea Jasko
Social Media Associate
I am a Commerce student with a passion for finance, social impact, and learning new skills.
Anna Galindo
Volunteer Social Media
I am a second year Marketing student at Humber. I love meeting new people, talking to them and learning new things everyday!
Areeba Anwer
HR Assistant
An incoming Kinesiology Student at McMaster University in the fall, passionate about youth development and opportunities with a focus on leadership.
Arishi Maisara
Administrative Associate
I am a high school student who is passionate about empowering youth and bringing about positive change within communities.
Arpana Kashyap
Human Resources Associate
I am an experienced Human Resources Professional with in-depth experience of all HR activities.
Aryan Kapur
Administrative Associate
I am a second-year Honours Biology student looking to bring about change in the lives of many and grow as a person.
Ashi Padmakumar
Public Relations Intern
A fourth-semester public relations student who continuously trying to improve skills by adding experience and exposure.
Ashley Ramdhan
Entrepreneurship Program Lead
High school student driven for change
Ava Melenchuk
Policy and Political Associate
I am a Global Development student who is passionate about politics and youth involvement.
Basil Syed
Social Media Associate
A student in high school, interested in improving my skills of connecting the world through social media
Beatrice Ndur-Osei
Director of Community Outreach and Volunteer Coordinator
A final-year social work student from York University who wants to inspire and empower their community to reach their full potential.
Beth Neufeld
Social Media Associate
I am a freelance writer who is always on the lookout for new stories, adventures, and ways to give a little something back to the world.
Blessing Akponah
Administrative Associate
I am a high school student with an interest in learning, exploring, and making an impact.
Bohdan Kozachuk
Outreach And Digital Marketing Coordinator
An experienced Digital Marketer with background in SEO and SMM. Innovative and enthusiastic. Always looking for a fresh approach to routine and common activities.
Catherine Lam
Administrative Associate
I am a high school student with a passion for creating amazing opportunities and positive change with future leaders.
Chelsea Goodman
Social Media Associate
I am a young leader with passion and a drive to succeed.
Doreen Merza
Social Media Associate
I am a hardworking student with an interest in Human Resources management. Eager to learn, grow, and empower youth!
Epsa Kapur
Social Media Associate
I am a dedicated individual with a passion for constant learning and a firm belief in giving back to the community.
Eseohe Ojo
Social Media Associate
I am a Policy professional working on human rights, technology, gender, and intersecting issues.
Garima Panwar
Community and Social Service Worker
As a 2nd year Psychology student studying at the University of Toronto, I am super passionate about mental health promotions specifically for those most marginalized.
Hamidah Oderinwale
Outreach Associate
I am a high school student who is passionate about technology, volunteering, and inspiring change in the community.
Harneet Khangura
Outreach Associate
I am a high school student with a passion for creating beneficial opportunities and collaborating with future leaders.
Hector Phan
Administrative Associate
I am an ambitious Business student who is motivated to learn and make an impact.
Hiba Fatima
Administrative Associate
I am a high school student with/full of energy, inspiration, and great intentions!
Hira Zulfiqar
Entrepreneurship Project Associate
Justice Studies graduate with a passion to contribute positively to the community through mentoring and supporting youth.
Hussain Ali Naqvi
Community Lead
Young leader with a passion for improving health outcomes and empowering underprivileged youth.
Isabel Smillie
Fundraising and Donor Relations Associate
I am a Business Management student with a lifelong interest in community development and education.
Ishaan Bahl
Administrative Associate
I am enthusiastic, determined, and hard-working high school student who is passionate about software and technology.
Jalisha Yap
Fundraising and Donor Relations Associate
I am a high school student who is passionate about business and finance. Striving to make a positive impact through empowering youth!
Javen May
Software Developer
I'm an aspiring developer and data scientist looking to gain valuable experience in the tech world.
Jenny Bui
Social Media Associate
I am a full-time Social Psychology student. Passionate about advocating for mental health, diversity, and inclusion!
Jessie Fawcett
Outreach Associate
I am a Social Work student with an interest in youth rehabilitation and crisis intervention. As well, I am passionate about theatre and film, and am always looking for ways to incorporate these forms of art into social work with youth. I am dedicated to helping youth get second chances to pursue their dreams!
Jonell Pantlitz
Social Media Associate
I am a journalist who believes in helping our community and giving back, and I feel that volunteering is one of the best ways to do this.
Krithik Bagawandas
Administrative Associate
I am a high school student who is interested in working with technology and bringing positive change to the community.
Laaibah Irfan
Youth Outreach Coordinator
I am a dedicated high school student interested in research and science. With a positive mindset help others to be a postive thinker. Also passionate in helping our community and in leadership.
Lior Boguslavski
Administrative Associate
I am a final-year Life Science student who is committed to self-development and learning.
Mackenzie Burnett
Social Media Associate
I am a social media and fundraising professional, volunteering enthusiast, and sustainability advocate.
Maisie Gorial
Governmental Outreach Lead
A motivated individual who is determined to bring about
Manisha Khindri
Business Development Associate
Recent Arts & Science graduate with experience in international development, passionate about youth empowerment and social entrepreneurship.
Manuela Eduaful
Outreach Associate
I am a first year college student majoring in Psychology. I have a passion for helping other people and impacting them in a positive way.
Mujeedat Lekuti
Social Media Associate
I am an enthusiastic, ambitious, and outgoing student who is ready to make change and a positive impact.
Nicholas Tao
Software Developer
I am a high school student who is passionate about technology and volunteering.
Oyindamola Esho
Fundraising and Donor Relations Associate
I am a multidisciplinary storyteller who is dedicated to clear, concise, captivating narratives.
Pahul Kaur
Outreach Associate
A high school student with a strong personality and a drive to succeed, seeking to gain experience and get involved in the community.
Ramneek Sunner
Administrative Associate
I am a high school student committed to creating change in the community through technology.
Rashu Sharda
Administrative Associate
I am a young leader who is committed to self-development and passionate about diversity and inclusion.
Riya Ahuja
Social Media Associate
I am a highschool student who is creative and highly determined to make a change in the community with my technology skills.
Rochelle Punit
Director of Fundraising and Donor Relations
Community Developer with a passion for Volunteerism
Shan-Li Wang
Graphic Design Associate
I am a Media Interactive Design student who loves all kinds of design and is looking to gain industry experience through volunteering.
Shreya Rao
Administrative Associate
I am a seasoned Human Resources professional. I specialize in helping organizations better understand their recruitment needs based on cultural fit.
Sui Young
Front End Developer
A Front-End Dev with a passion for building socially aware, accessibility conscious, and user friendly content.
Syeda Zahra
Software Developer
A recent engineering graduate passionate about innovation and technology.
Tazreen Noman
Social Media Associate
A recent Communications graduate with a passion for social media marketing and helping the community
Tom Wolcott
Director of Technology
The Coding Wizard and Computer Science graduate
Varshini Rajakumaran
Administrative Associate
I am a high school student who is interested in business. I am driven to succeed and make positive change in the community!
Vincent Dang
Software Developer
I'm a Software Developer who is passionate about building web applications to improve the user experience and be made accessible to all types of users.
Yuliya Sonko
Social Media Associate
I am a hardworking student who is interested in marketing and consulting. I am passionate about equality and community engagement.
Zarin Mukta
Volunteer- Administrative Associate
Dedicated and enthusiastic HR student, seeking to expand my skills and knowledge through volunteering.
Zoe Thornton
Outreach Associate - Placement Student
I am a Social Work student who is highly motivated to create a safe, accessible, and equitable future for all.
Abdishakur Mohamed
Volunteer
High school student passionate about computer science and volunteering.
Amal Abdo
Intern student
A forth year child and youth care major here to complete my internship with youth and learn new skills.
Angelo Michael Joicin
Funds and Donor Relations Associate
I am a post-secondary student, now currently working as a Funds and Donor Relations Associate. I am enthusiastic in terms of helping this team by data analysis, and providing feedback from analysis.
Anika Johnson-Roberts
Child & Youth Care Placement Student
I am a Child & Youth Care student whos main goal is to provide assistance/counselling to children and youth going through difficult times
Anjali John
Social Work Placement Student
I'm on my third year of the Bachelor of Social Work program at Toronto Metropolitan University. I'm eager to educate youth about mental health, work with a diverse team, develop new skills, and participate in training opportunities to sharpen my skills in my professional practice.
Anjola Adewole
Volunteer Fundrasing and Donating Associate
I'm a high school student and I really want to make a difference in the world and those who can't help themselves.
Armaan Rasheed
Social Media Associate
I am a dedicated individual who is striving to create real change in the world and bring equality to everyone.
Avalon Munro
Social Work Placement Student
I am a Social Work student who is passionate about making a difference in young people's lives through resources, skill-building, and leadership training.
Biethel Keflu
Social Media Associate
A second year business student interested in finance and marketing, and eager to create an impact in the lives of others through volunteer and extracurricular activities.
Celina Gonzalez
Social Media Associate
I am a post-secondary Social Work student who is interested in community engagement and development.
Christvie Nsenga
Child and Youth Care, Student Placement
I am a 4th-year student at Toronto Metropolitan University studying Child and Youth Care. I am very excited to learn some new skills to better develop young people and their goals in the future. An interesting thing about me is that I do content creation on YouTube and Instagram. Looking forward to working with you all!
Doaa Alsadah
Administrative Associate
Essete Makonnen Tesfaye
Volunteer Fundraising and Donor Relation Associate
A global health student, passionate about health equity and dedicated to creating change.
Fatima Afnan
Social Media Associate
Fizza Batool
Child and youth care placement student
I'm a child and youth care student who's main goal is to assist the youth transition into careers and volunteer situations, learn new skills and help out in any way seem fit
Garry Brar
Outreach Associate
I am a hardworking student who is interested in marketing and consulting. Passionate about equality and community engagement!
Imudia Alexader
Operations Administrator
I am an Economics student at McMaster University. I am passionate about community development as well as diversity, equity, and inclusion in sports.
Jessica James
Social Work Placement Student
I am a social work student who actively looks to be a helping hand for others. My goal is to be constantly changing to be the best version of myself and to expand my skills within the workplace.
Jessie Deng
Social Media Associate
Kanika Tibriwal
Administrative Associate
I am an enthusiastic high school student who is passionate about learning and empowering youth across my community.
Katie Zhou
Operations Intern
I am a post-secondary student aspiring to learn as much as I can. Eager to take on new tasks and challenges.
Krishika Verma
Volunteer Social Media Associate
A creative high school student interested in pursing a medical degree and has a passion to make a positive change in the community using my diverse skills set while learning new things every day!
Madelyn Johnston
Fundraising and Donor Relations
I am passionate about business and community involvement.
Mary Achebe
Fundraising & Donor Relations Associate
Recent Biochemistry and Neuroscience graduate with fundraising experience and a passion for building inclusive community spaces and opportunities for youth
Mashiyat Ahmed
Mental health initiative volunteer
A driven highschool student passionate about inciting meaningful conversations about youth mental health
Mathura Manoranjan
Social Media Coordinator
A creative highschool student who has a passion to make a positive change to help the environment using my technology skills.
Narmeen Zaman
Volunteer - Fundraising and Donor Relation Associate
Visionary with a plan to create a bright future and help others in need.
Negar Deilami
UI/UX Design Trainee
A product design student passionate about designing innovative user experiences that can create value for society.
Owen Ashton
Volunteer data management
A student in high school with an interest to learn, trying to grain some experience to make it easy in the future, improve my skills and maturity.
Philippa Wood
Fundraising and Donor Relations Associate
I am an International Development graduate who is passionate about accessibility and policy.
Precious Ampadu
Fundraising and Grants Associate Intern
I'm a first year Graphic Communications Management student at TMU passionate about cultivating at risk youth and communties. I'm very eager to be apart of this role to help others get access to funding that can potentially help and save a life.
Ronald So
Software Developer
Recent physics graduate, passionate about tech and software development.
Rosemarie Hylton
Outreach Associate
Ru Chan
Social Work Placement Student
I am a Social Work student who enjoys meeting new people and listening to the various stories we're all surrounded by. Let's get to know each others'!
Ryan Teng
Social Media Associate
An enthusiastic, ambitious and outgoing student ready to bring an impactful change
Rylea Patton
Social Work Placement Student
I am a Social Work student dedicated to helping youth explore their interests and develop practical skills and knowledge outisde the confines of a classroom through impactful volunteer work.
Salah Salah
Fundraising and Donor Relations Associate
I am an ambitious self-starter who is devoted to promoting impactful and positive changes in my community.
Sam Atkinson
Social Work Placement Student
I am a Social Work Student looking to help youth gain new and impactful experiences, any way I can.
Shayna Marks
Policy and Political Associate
I am a Health Sciences student with an interest in health law. I am passionate about community building and creating opportunites for youth to grow and achieve personal and educational success.
Taha Haque
I am a high school student dedicated to fighting sterotypes and help make our community more inclusive.
Tahmeed Naser
Social Media Associate
An innovative, passionate, and determined highschool student looking to inspire change in the world.
Tamika Whyte
Placement student
A social work student with an interest in capacity building and assisting youth in personal development
Teja Peltomaa
Social Work Placement Student
I am a social work student looking to help engage youth and support them to find volenteer opportunities that align with their passions.
Terry Gayle
Human Resources Associate
Trenyce De Gannes
Volunteer
I am a passionate learner and leader, looking to expand my skills & get the chance to work alongside others. My goal everyday is to work hard, learn something new and be better today than I was yesterday.
Troy Tsai
Volunteer
Highschool student passionate about giving back to his community while learning new things everyday
Ugonna Kanu
Administrative Assistant Associate
Hello everyone! My name is Ugonna Kanu, and I just obtained my Bachelor's degree in Human Resources from York University. I look forward to obtain transferable skills from this role that would play a crucial role in my career trajectory.
Vidya Tasa-Chadha
Funding & Donor Relations
Newly graduated Gender Studies student who is passionate about youth leadership and community building.
Yashasvi Patrange
Social Media Associate
Yi-Lun Tsai
Administrative Associate
I am a college student who is eager to learn new skills through volunteering.
Zhané Mothersill
Social Work Placement Student
I'm a fourth-year Social Work student studying at Toronto Metropolitan University. I'm eager to apply my growing skills toward empowering and fostering the growth of youth as they find their footing in today's world. I believe my community development and advocacy passions will further these goals.