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CEO & Instructor

Vanessa Iarocci, CPA, CA

Vanessa is an authentic and energetic leader known for her passion for education and innovation, which she brings to her role as CEO and co-owner at Brain Power! 

Vanessa earned her Bachelor of Commerce, CPA designation and was selected to complete a post-graduate certificate in innovation at the Stanford Graduate School of Business. Following this, Vanessa spent over two decades in increasingly senior positions at PwC and TD Bank Financial Group. She then honed her entrepreneurial skills as the CEO of a national school apparel company, where she led an innovative turnaround and growth strategy. As an Executive-In-Residence at the University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Management, Vanessa has developed curricula, case studies and mentorship programs for MBA students, including the world’s first MBA course exploring social innovation, as well as contributing to leading research on innovation and leadership. She also recently designed the ‘Scale-Up’ Program for the MaRS Discovery District, a playbook for Canadian CEOs seeking to scale companies globally. Vanessa has also authored multiple thought leadership papers that have been featured in major media outlets, including the Wall Street Journal, Forbes and the Globe and Mail.

Drawing on her 20 years of experience at some of the world’s leading firms and as a CEO, Vanessa has already lead instruction in exciting new courses at Brain Power that expose students to cutting edge business and investing concepts, including preparing them for the prestigious Wharton Investment Competition and providing insights and experience with the Stanford business design framework and other business theories. She is also active in providing career and admission mentorship, preparing and coaching our students in admissions, presentations and professional career strategies. During her tenure at Brain Power, Vanessa has also also spearheaded an expansion across multiple campuses, a virtual school and new curriculum.

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Director

Jason Boulet, Honours B.A. (Minor in Classics), M.A. , Ph.D. (English Language and Literature)

Jason completed his undergraduate degree at Mount Allison University and his master’s degree at Queen’s University. He then completed his doctoral studies at Queen’s, where his research was funded by a prestigious Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) Canada Graduate Scholarship. For his graduate studies, Jason chose to specialize in Victorian literature, with an emphasis on poetry, Pre-Raphaelitism, aestheticism, and decadence.

Jason has published academic articles and book reviews in peer-reviewed journals, including the Journal of Pre-Raphaelite Studies, Victorian Poetry, and the University of Toronto Quarterly. In his time at Queen’s University as a teaching assistant and instructor, Jason taught material ranging from the medieval period to the 20^th century, and he acted as full instructor in courses at the first-, second-, and fourth-year levels, in areas including historical surveys of British literature, Romantic poetry and poetics, Victorian literature and culture, nineteenth-century constructions of selfhood, Gothic fiction and monstrosity, and fin-de-siècle literature.

Jason is a dedicated and passionate teacher, who believes in taking an interdisciplinary approach that connects the cultural riches of the past to the everyday experiences and concerns of his students. He encourages them to develop (or simply to deepen) a genuine enthusiasm for the arts and humanities, improving their critical thinking, reading, and writing skills in the process.

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Director

Jenn Chenkin, Honours B.A. (Minor in History), M.A., Ph.D. (English Literature)

Jenn completed her Honours B.A. in English and History at the University of Toronto before relocating to England to complete her M.A. and Ph.D at Queen Mary, University of London. Her dissertation was fully funded by a Queen Mary Overseas Research Student Award and a Queen Mary Principal’s Studentship.

As a course convenor, lecturer, and teaching assistant for undergraduate and graduate students, Jenn has over 10 years’ experience at the university level, teaching at both Queen Mary and Goldsmiths Colleges at the University of London. Her research interests include book history, the theatre, letter-writing, satire and rhetoric, Romanticism, the Gothic, the Victorian novel, literary coteries, and spectatorship. A versatile and knowledgeable teacher, she has taught literature ranging from the medieval period to the 20^th century, as well as critical theory and research methodology.  Jenn has published reviews and done peer review for journals such as The London Journal and The Journal for Eighteenth-Century Studies, as well as organized an international conference called “Text and Trade: Book History Perspectives on Eighteenth-Century Literature” in 2012.]

Jenn believes that a teacher should be caring, invested, and enthusiastic and brings this attitude with her every day to the classroom. She has always been interested in promoting student engagement and fostering a lifelong love of learning, and she has been known to organize reading groups and scholarly outings for her students, broadening the scope of education to make it fun and accessible. For this reason, Jenn has also participated in student outreach programs designed to make higher education more accessible to youth from less privileged backgrounds.

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Director & Academic Campus Head, Halton

Cassandra Chapman, Honours B.A., M.A. (Linguistics), Ph.D. (Cognitive Science of Language) 

Cassandra earned her Ph.D. from McMaster University, and the focus of her doctoral studies was on the Cognitive Science of Language. Her doctoral degree was funded by a prestigious Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) Canada Graduate Scholarship. During her PhD studies, Cassandra also completed a visiting term at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and was funded by the Michael Smith Foreign Study Supplement. Cassandra’s dissertation investigated how sentence structure (syntax) and sentence meaning (semantics) affect reading times in language processing.

Cassandra has taught undergraduate courses at University of Toronto, McMaster University, Brock University, and Sheridan College. She has also earned teaching certificates from the MacPherson Institute for Leadership, Innovation and Excellence in Teaching at McMaster University and Woodsworth College at the University of Toronto. As an educator, Cassandra recognizes that all students enter the classroom with unique backgrounds, experiences, and learning styles. She embraces this diversity in her teaching and utilizes a variety of teaching methods in the classroom. As an educator, Cassandra aims to inspire students to think critically about the world around them and to never stop learning.

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Student Achievement and Extracurricular Advisor

Adam Richter, Honours B.A., M.A. (History), Ph.D. (History and Philosophy of Science and Technology)

As an undergraduate student at Glendon College, the bilingual campus of York University, Adam earned a Specialized Honours bachelor degree in History. After completing a Master’s degree at Dalhousie University, he earned his doctorate at the University of Toronto’s Institute for the History and Philosophy of Science and Technology. Adam’s research focuses on the history of science in seventeenth-century England, particularly the relationship between science and religion in that period. He has received numerous academic awards, including the prestigious Nathan Reingold Prize, which is awarded by the History of Science Society for the best essay by a graduate student. Adam’s research has been published in prominent academic journals including Notes and Records: The Royal Society Journal of the History of Science, for which he also served as guest co-editor for the December 2018 issue.

Adam’s teaching is informed by the wide range of experiences and interdisciplinary training described above. He has instructed three courses at the University of Toronto and given numerous guest lectures at U of T and elsewhere. Most recently, he taught a course on the history of astronomy at the University of Toronto Mississauga. As a teacher, Adam strives to create a stimulating, humorous, and accepting classroom environment for all students. He is particularly passionate about encouraging students to become stronger writers and speakers. Whether they need to work on fundamentals or advanced techniques, students can count on Adam’s help to hone their communication skills.

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Director of Senior Language Arts Faculty

Oscar Jarzmik, Honors B.A., M.A., Ph.D. (History – Middle East Studies)

Oscar earned his undergraduate degree from York University (Toronto, ON) and his M.A. and Ph.D from the Department of Near and Middle Eastern Civilizations at the University of Toronto. As a graduate student, Oscar specialized in the history and politics of the modern Middle East (Eastern Mediterranean). More specifically, he concentrated his studies in the Humanities on: a) the intellectual formations of state/colonial rule in the Middle East; b) how “power” is inscribed into the built and cultural environment of cities.

As a graduate student, Oscar lectured and instructed sessions at the University of Toronto and Ryerson University. Over the years, he has also been involved in several social justice, educational, and community-building initiatives both locally and internationally. Oscar is an enthusiastic educator who believes in using an interdisciplinary, interactive approach to help students develop their interpersonal and critical thinking skills. Brain Power is so fortunate to have a brilliant language arts instructor who places great value in conscientious learning coupled with inspiring bright students to exceed their potential.

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Director of Primary Language Arts Faculty

Hannah Merchant, Dip. E.C.E., Honours B.C.D., M.Ed.

Hannah completed her Masters degree in Education at York University, also obtaining a graduate diploma in early-childhood education. She has been a keynote speaker for the Association of Early Childhood Educators of Ontario on the topic of “Practitioner Self-Image and Advocacy for the Field.” She has also traveled to a developing country, where she provided workshops for teachers and educators who live and work in marginalized communities. Most recently, Hannah has provided workshops on pedagogical documentation for childcare programs in York Region. Over the last decade, Hannah has also organized and participated in various fundraising events that have benefitted the York Region Community, such as those for the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and the Markham Stouffville Hospital.

Pairing her love for learning with her passion for teaching, Hannah utilizes a “strength-based” approach when working with children and their families. She believes strongly that each child and family bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the classroom, and that these strengths should be recognized, celebrated, and respected. Outside the classroom, Hannah has many years of experience working with domesticated animals. She enjoys reading and writing, travelling, scuba diving, and is learning how to paint.

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Director of Math & Problem Solving

Jennifer Pritsker, Honours B.Sc. (Biomedical Science), B.Ed., OCT

Jennifer earned her undergraduate degree and teaching education at York University. She is extremely passionate about math and science education, and has inspired bright students at Brain Power and across Canada for over a decade. Jennifer has 10 years of experience teaching and curriculum development at Brain Power and university settings. Jennifer completed high school at William Lyon Mackenzie C.I, in the MaCS Program, and is keenly aware of the importance of engaging bright, talented students in enrichment education. She works closely with Brain Power students to support them in preparing for entrance exams to enriched programs and independent schools.

Jennifer engages students to create a classroom environment conducive to learning, inspiration, inquiry, and exploration. Jennifer’s student-centered approach helps students develop a growth mindset by ensuring they build their knowledge from a strong foundation while empowering them to tackle challenging problems independently and with peers. Jennifer makes sure her students know they can succeed in anything with effort and determination!

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Academic Campus Head, Markham

Ryan Fics, B.A. (Honors), M.A., Ph.D. (Comparative Literature)

Ryan earned a Bachelor of Arts (honours) and a Joint Master of Arts in Religious Studies from the University of Manitoba and the University of Winnipeg, and he holds a PhD in Comparative Literature from Emory University. He has several years of experience working as a “Reading Teacher” with students in Grades 3 and 4. He has taught a broad variety of courses in the humanities, including courses on Classical Literature, Antiquity, Political Philosophy, Animal Studies, Nineteenth and Early Twentieth Century English Literature, and oral presentation courses at the University of Manitoba, Emory University, and Wesleyan University. More recently, he has taught Introduction to Ethics in the Centre for Ethics at the University of Toronto and Biology of Story at York University. He has published articles and interviews in peer-reviewed journals and book chapters in presses such as Palgrave Macmillan and continues to regularly attend national and international conferences.

As an educator, Ryan’s goal is awaken young minds. His teaching methodology involves facilitating a fun, interactive learning environment for the thoughtful acquisition and continuous development of the necessary tools students need to thrive in a changing world. Much of his teaching methodology includes enhancing understanding and motivating curiosity in the student population by helping learners gain mastery over the foundations of a topic, so that they can effectively synthesize, evaluate, and communicate information in compassionate ways. As an Academic Campus Head at Brain Power, Ryan’s aim is to help students grow into independent thinkers, so that they can go on to solve difficult problems and make a difference in the world.

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Academic Campus Head, Toronto

Stacy Costa, B.A. (Semiotics & SocioCultural Anthropology, minor in Sociology), M.A., Ph.D. (cand.) Education

Stacy A. Costa is a doctoral candidate in a collaborative program in the Department of Curriculum Studies and Teacher Development at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE) and the Collaborative Program Engineering Education (ENgEd). She received her honours B.A. and her master’s degree from the University of Toronto. Her master’s research explored how mathematics discourse fosters design thinking and knowledge building in the elementary classroom.

Stacy is passionate about making learning simple, engaging, and accessible to students of all ages.  She assists in solving knowledge, skill, and attitude gaps, helping students grow personally and professionally. She has extensive knowledge of STEM learning initiatives and works to integrate students into an innovation-driven knowledge society. Stacy is also an enigmatologist, puzzle designer, and public speaker. She speaks to various groups and professionals on the importance using puzzles to introduce problem-solving and STEM understanding in education. Her Ted Talk has garnered many views, and she enjoys it when students can have their “Aha!” moment.

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Academic Campus Head, Toronto

Kaitlin Ruether, Honours B.A., M.F.A. (Creative Writing)

Kaitlin earned her B.A. from the University of Victoria and an M.F.A. from the University of Guelph’s competitive Creative Writing program, where she focused on fiction and playwriting and completed a novel as her thesis. Her writing addresses themes of environmental impact, Canadian identity, and nostalgia in our era of the internet. Kaitlin’s work has been published in literary journals across Canada and the United States, and her plays have been produced in Victoria, British Columbia. She was recently longlisted for the Jacob Zilber Prize for Short Fiction! In her spare time she works as a freelance journalist for the Canadian media publication, Exclaim!

When teaching, Kaitlin believes in creating an environment where students feel safe and excited to share their ideas. She fosters enthusiasm about the material and works to see inspiration thrive. As a life-long learner, Kaitlin is thrilled to be a part of the stellar team at Brain Power and to be working with the incredible students!

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Instructor

Ana-Maria Jerca, Honours B.A., B.Ed., M.A., Ph.D. (Cand.) Linguistics

Ana-Maria is a Ph.D. candidate in linguistics at York University, where she also completed her M.A. and B.A. She has presented sections from her Major Research Paper (the capstone of her Master’s degree) at academic conferences in three countries. Currently she is in the process of publishing more of her doctoral work in academic journals and applying for scholarships with which to fund her research.

Besides her research, she is deeply passionate about teaching! Thanks to her bachelor’s degrees, Ana-Maria has taught at multiple levels in a variety of settings (from young students to university undergraduates and almost everywhere in between). She loves opening her students’ minds and helping learners understand material in new ways. Her teaching philosophy can be summed up in a simple quotation: “Education is about inspiring one’s mind, not just filling one’s head.”

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Instructor

Katherine Maloney, Honours B.A. (English Literature), B.A. (Philosophy), M.A. (English Literature), M.Ed. (Secondary Education), Ed.D. (Educational Leadership)

Katherine completed her Honours B.A. in English Literature and B.A. in Philosophy at Lakehead University and her M.A. in English Literature at Queen’s University before relocating to Karachi, Pakistan to complete a Fellowship in International Development Management at the Aga Khan University’s Institute for Educational Development (IED). Inspired by her experiences at IED, she decided to change course and pursue a career in education, teaching at various international schools, including the Aga Khan Academy in Nairobi, Kenya, the International School of Kenya, Lahore American School, the American International School of Johannesburg, and the International School of Beijing. Katherine has also earned an M.Ed. in Secondary Education and an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership, with a focus on teacher professional development, and is actively engaged with the International Baccalaureate Organization, serving as an examiner, workshop leader, and school visiting team member.

Over the years, Katherine has taught IB, AP, and IGCSE English and Theory of Knowledge (TOK) as well as Journalism. In addition to English and philosophy, she is also passionate about Model United Nations, student leadership, and service learning. Katherine’s pedagogical approach is student-centred, inquiry-based, and collaborative. She is committed to holding all of her students to the very highest expectations while meeting each student’s unique strengths, interests, and needs.

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Instructor

Aparna B. Srikanthan, B.A. (English & Psychology), M.Ed., Ph.D. (cand.) Education

Aparna B. Srikanthan holds a double major in English Literature and Psychology. She obtained a Masters of Education from the University of Toronto and is currently pursuing a doctoral degree at the same institution. 

Aparna’s research interests are primarily focused on educational policies, with a particular emphasis on understanding how they impact student learning outcomes. With over 15 years of teaching experience, Aparna is deeply committed to engaging with young minds through interactive and immersive teaching practices that have the potential to transform students’ learning experiences. She is passionate about exploring innovative approaches to education and strives to empower students to become independent and lifelong learners.

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Instructor

Zoryana Babiy, Honours B.Sc. (Biology, Psychology, Chemistry), M.Sc. (Neuroscience), Ph.D. (Cand.)

Zoryana completed her B.Sc. at the University of Toronto with a double major in Biology for Health Sciences and Psychology, and a minor in Chemistry. She then completed her M.Sc. in the Neuroscience program at McMaster University. Her M.Sc. thesis focused on evaluating the effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for treating postpartum depression. Currently, Zoryana is completing her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at McMaster University, with her research focused on postpartum mental health.

Zoryana’s work has been published in peer-reviewed journals including the American Journal of Psychotherapy and the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry. She has served as a teaching assistant in numerous undergraduate courses in the Faculty of Science, including Human Nutritional Toxicology, Global Human Health and Disease, and Epidemiology. Zoryana also has experience with elementary and ESL education, as well as serving as the co-president of her graduate program at McMaster University.

Zoryana’s teaching philosophy can be explained by a quotation from Martin Luther King, Jr.: “The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education.”

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Instructor

Sarah Meehan Sirk, B.Sc. (Math and Philosophy)

Sarah Meehan Sirk is a writer, producer, and broadcaster. She’s the author of the critically-acclaimed short story collection The Dead Husband Project and the upcoming novel Like A Mother (2024), both published by Doubleday. Sarah’s writing has appeared in The Globe and Mail, Canadian Art magazine, spacing magazine, numerous online outlets and literary journals, and is anthologized in The Journey Prize Stories. She has written and produced award-winning shows for CBC Radio One, been nominated for a Gemini award and won Excellence in Journalism Award from the Society of Professional Journalists.

With a background in theatre, a degree in math and philosophy from the University of Toronto, a graduate certificate with distinction from The Humber School for Writers, and a couple of young kids of her own, Sarah is a passionate instructor who brings a multi-faceted approach to her teaching and a longstanding dedication to the fostering of the arts.

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Intsructor

Heather Read, Honours B.ArtSci (Arts and Science and Religious Studies), M.A. (Folklore), PhD (Leadership, Adult and Higher Education)

Heather is an interdisciplinary researcher and educator. She spent over a decade in the cultural sector, working in and with museums and art galleries across Canada, including The Rooms Provincial Art Gallery in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador; the Yukon Arts Centre in Whitehorse, Yukon; and the Royal Ontario Museum. In much of her cultural career, her work had an educational element, from leading classes and tours for visiting school groups, to designing educational components of curated shows. She has also worked in healthcare research and history research, and she has taught arts-based courses at the graduate level at York University/Toronto Metropolitan University and the University of Toronto. She has published in both academic and popular periodicals, as well as in online formats across diverse sectors. 

A patient and caring instructor, Heather is passionate about ensuring all students feel inspired and engaged in their learning journeys. As a practitioner of oral history research, she is deeply curious about what makes individuals motivated in their learning and encourages students to reflect on the way their learning resonates in their own lives. In other areas of her life, Heather enjoys playing with her young kids, puttering in her garden, hiking in ravines and kayaking on the lake. 

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Instructor

David Calloway B.A., M.A., Ph.D. (English, Rhetoric and Writing Studies)

David earned his B.A. in Humanities and Communications from California State University (Monterey Bay), his M.A. in Rhetoric and Writing Studies from San Diego State University, and his Ph.D. in English (Rhetoric and Writing Studies) from the University of Alberta. David has taught undergraduate and graduate courses in the United States and Canada. Originally from California, David has taught writing, critical thinking, and research methods courses at San Diego State and CSU Monterey Bay, the University of Alberta, and the University of Toronto. 

David believes that to teach writing is to teach rhetoric and critical thinking. Students that think rhetorically understand that writing is a performance that requires the author to engage the audience. He believes the role of a writing teacher is to foster the skills necessary to write in any given situation. For students to be successful in their academic and professional lives, they need to be able to communicate effectively. Throughout his teaching career, David has had the opportunity to work with a diverse group of students and faculty who have influenced his approach to the teaching of writing and public speaking.

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Instructor

Dylan Skurka, B.A., M.A. (Ancient Philosophy), Ph.D. (Cand.) Philosophy

Dylan is a Ph.D. candidate in Philosophy at York University. He received his B.A. and M.A. from Western University, where he specialized in Ancient Philosophy. Currently, his research focuses on the phenomenology of altered states of consciousness. Passionate about conveying the value of philosophy to a broader audience, Dylan writes extensively on the intersection between philosophy and pop culture. His film reviews and poetry have been published in Philosophy Now, one of the world’s leading philosophy magazines, and his chapter on the ethical themes explored in the dystopian show The Last of Us will be included in the forthcoming book The Last of Us and Philosophy.

As a teacher, Dylan prides himself on his ability to connect with his students. His priority is to help build a fun, supportive class environment that fosters intellectual curiosity and openness to learning.

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Instructor

Srijan Batra, Honours BA, MA (Communication, Popular Culture, & Film), PhD (ABD | Communication & Culture)

Srijan earned his BA from Wilfrid Laurier University, MA from Brock University, and PhD (ABD) from York University.  He is a leading expert in media literacy and the fight against mis/disinformation in Canada.  He currently works as a policy advisor/assessor for the International Fact-Checking Network, an international body that oversees the health of journalism and fact-checking globally.  He has also presented and given talks at numerous national and international conferences, including at the University of Pennsylvania.    

His teaching experience spans over a decade, where he has held teaching positions at post-secondary institutions in Canada and Spain.  Srijan currently serves as a professor at George Brown College (Toronto, ON), where he teaches courses at the intersection of media, culture, and philosophy.  At Brain Power, he serves as an impassioned instructor of public speaking, continually motivating his students to challenge their comfort-zones and accelerate their journey towards mastering the art of effective public communication.

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Instructor

Burcu Boran, Honours B.A. (English Language Teaching), M.A., Ph.D. (cand.) Linguistics

Burcu is a Ph.D. candidate in Linguistics at York University where she also earned her second M.A. and TESOL certificate. She completed her Honours B.A. in English Language Teaching at Middle East Technical University and her first M.A. in Linguistics at Hacettepe University in Türkiye.  In her previous research, Burcu focused on first and second language acquisition of the linguistic properties that lie in syntax and discourse interface and presented her work in numerous conferences. She is currently working on the heritage language acquisition and maintenance of Turkish in Canada.

During her Ph.D. studies at York University, Burcu served as a Teaching Assistant for several undergraduate courses and as a Language Facilitator at the ESL Open Learning Centre. She also worked as an English Teacher from high school to university levels in Türkiye for 4 years. Burcu believes that a good teacher is someone who can bring their own learning into the real world and her teaching philosophy is summarized by the quotation that “Your life as a teacher begins the day you realize you are always a learner.”

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Instructor

Chris Alton B.A (Film Studies), MA (Cinema & Media Studies), Ph.D (Communications and Culture) 

Chris earned a BA Advanced in Film Studies with the University of Manitoba, and holds an MA in Cinema and Media Studies and a PhD in Communication and Culture from York University. His specific field of research is Video Game Studies, in particular focusing on the intersection of culture, politics, gender, personal identity, and play. (Feel free to ask him about video game zombies and Resident Evil).

Over the past twelve years, Chris has taught at universities across Ontario, including University of Toronto Scarborough, York University, University of Waterloo, Wilfrid Laurier University, Trent University, St. Michael’s College, and Seneca Polytechnic. He has taught fundamental core courses for topics such as an introduction to video game studies, the use of sound in visual media, the political economy of media, and the ways in which digital media impacts our everyday lives. His experience with large groups of diverse students with diverse needs has given him the skills to educate and accommodate under various conditions and across in-person and online teaching formats. He also has experience with digital media creation and game design, having released accessible scholarly videos, as well as contributing to a number of independent video game releases.

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Instructor

June Starkey OCT, B.A. (French Language and Theatre Studies), B.Ed., M.A. (Curriculum Studies), PhD (Teacher Development)

June Starkey is an accomplished Ontario-certified bilingual educator with 3+ decades of teaching experience that spans from Kindergarten to University. June completed her Bachelor of Education requirements while concurrently completing her B.A. in French language and Theatre at Queen’s University in Kingston. She taught French immersion to Kindergarten through Grade 8 in public schools for more than a decade. June’s CBC interview with Metro Morning about her inclusive and democratic classroom practice earned her a provincial award for outstanding dedication to Ontario teaching from the Ontario History and Social Studies Teachers Association. When June began her M.A. at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education of the University of Toronto it was her intention to continue her career path in curriculum development and school leadership, but her passion for writing and research led her to earn her Ph.D. specializing in assessment and feedback.

June has had the opportunity to work (and publish) with internationally renowned researchers on three research projects concerning assessment at the Ministry of Education, York University and OISE/UT. She presents her own research at conferences in Canada, the US, and the UK and collaborates with colleagues globally on assessment research. As a performance coach and an adjunct professor in the Master of Teaching program at OISE/UT, June is committed to personalizing curriculum to meet students’ needs. June is thrilled to be joining Brain Power this fall at the Etobicoke campus. She can’t wait to work with small groups to spark curiosity, inspire dedication and help learners create blueprints for a bright future!

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Instructor

Andrew Moffitt,  Honours B.A., M.Litt, Ph.D. (English Literature)

Andrew completed his bachelor’s degree in English literature at the University of Newcastle (England) and went on to earn a Master of Letters in Modernist Literature at the University of Glasgow (Scotland). His academic journey continued in Canada with a Ph.D in English Language and Literature from Queen’s University, Kingston.

Andrew’s scholarly interests focus primarily on modernist literature and the literature of the First World War. He has conducted research and presented on the works of Virginia Woolf, reflecting his particular interest in this influential writer. His academic pursuits are complemented by a diverse range of teaching experiences spanning 12 years, covering English language arts, English for academic purposes, public speaking, and communications.

Having lived in Japan for four years, Andrew brings a global perspective to his teaching. He is passionate about fostering students’ critical and creative thinking skills and believes that literature offers a gateway to a world of new experiences. Through his teaching, Andrew aims to impart the joys of the written word and inspire a deep appreciation for the complexities of language and storytelling.

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Instructor

Paul O’Hagan, Honours B.A. (Joint Literature and Philosophy), M.A. (Philosophy), P.h.D (Philosophy)

Paul earned his undergraduate degree in literature and philosophy at the University of Waterloo, and his M.A. and P.h.D. in Philosophy from McMaster University. His research is in ancient philosophy and contemporary ethics, especially on the topic of friendship and human relationships. In addition to his academics, Paul worked as a chaplaincy director and community organizer at McMaster University.

Paul is an award-winning teacher and has over ten years of classroom experience at the university level. He has lectured at McMaster University and St. Jerome’s University (Waterloo) as a graduate student and a continuing scholar. Because he believes that the purpose of education is to build up and empower students through their mastery of essential critical skills, Paul is passionate about teaching the liberal arts, especially language, literature, and philosophy.

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Instructor

Sonia Masih, B.Sc. (Honours Biology, Double Major in Modern Western History), B.Ed., J.D.

Sonia completed a Bachelor of Science Honours Biology with double major in Modern Western History at the University of Toronto.  She then went on to complete her Bachelor of Education. Since then, Sonia has taught a wide variety of classes from Grades 4-12 in Math, Science, STEM, Language Arts, History, Geography, World Issues and Law.  After years of teaching Grade 11 and 12 law, Sonia applied to law school, completing her Juris Doctor at the University of Ottawa with a focus on Criminal Law.  Sonia went on to practice law in Ottawa and the Greater Toronto Area. She has also published educational material for Grade 11 and 12 law courses through the Ontario Justice Education Network and continued to judge and coach mock trial competitions both as a teacher and lawyer.  In 2017, Sonia returned to work as an educator in the private sector with a significant amount of time teaching gifted students.

Sonia is no stranger to public speaking. She excelled in her trial advocacy courses, has presented in court and has been a judge for public speaking competitions. She is a strong believer in helping students and youth use their voices to be an agent of positive change within our society. Sonia is a dynamic and engaging educator who strives to encourage students to rise to their full potential as advocates and public speakers.  She has a passionate commitment to creating meaningful educational experience and nurturing a positive, growth mindset in her students.

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Instructor

Lara El Mekaui, B.A. (Literature), M.A., Ph.D. (English Literature)

Lara earned her Ph.D. in English from the University of Waterloo in 2024. She also holds an M.A. in English Literature from the American University of Beirut. Lara has almost 10 years of experience working with a variety of learners individually and in groups. She has been a university instructor for over five years and an English tutor since 2015. Lara is also an editor and a writer who is very passionate about literature and storytelling. She is also fluent in English, Arabic, and Russian.

As an instructor, Lara believes in three teaching pillars: growth mentality, relationship-building, and curiosity. As our world becomes more multidirectional and adaptable, she is convinced that our time in the classroom should improve our life outside of the classroom, contribute to our growth as human beings, and keep us curious and open minded. While it is the instructor’s responsibility to engage students in critical thinking, classrooms are not just for academic learning, but also for building human connections and fostering personal growth. Lara believes that every individual, whether a student or a teacher, plays a crucial role in this learning process.

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Instructor

Carla G. Mesa Guzzo, Honours B.A., M.A., Ph.D. (cand.) Egyptology 

Carla is a PhD candidate in Egyptology at the University of Toronto’s Department of Near and Middle Eastern Civilizations. Her thesis seeks to understand what it might have been like to experience imperial pageantry in ancient Egypt at the height of its empire. She has had the opportunity to conduct fieldwork at some of Egypt’s most astounding archaeological sites and landmarks, dealing with material that spans thousands of years.

During her nine years as a teaching assistant and course instructor at the University of Toronto, she has had the opportunity to introduce students to a wide array of topics, including mummification, ancient Egyptian literature, and how to read hieroglyphs. She has also helped students refine their writing and research skills, and worked with them to find learning strategies that would be most effective for their individual needs. As an educator, she seeks to build students’ critical thinking muscles and get them excited about the prospect of learning. She believes that giving students agency and helping them develop their own voices is key to this. 

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Instructor

Kornelia Drianovski, Honours B.A. (English and Anthropology), M.A. (English)

Kornelia earned her M.A. from the University of Toronto’s Department of English, specializing in the Field of Creative Writing. Her graduate studies were funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) Canada Graduate Scholarship. Her works of fiction, poetry, and creative non-fiction have been published across various Canadian literary journals, ranging from The Ex-Puritan to Canadian Notes & Queries.

During her studies at the University of Toronto, Kornelia served as a teaching assistant, leading various tutorials in creative writing. Prior to this, she worked as an Art Instructor at Oakville Galleries. As an educator, Kornelia treasures curiosity and embraces empathy-based teaching methods. In her role as an instructor, she strives to ignite critical thinking, instill self-confidence, and cultivate a profound passion for learning.

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Instructor

Lily Wang, Honours B.A. (English), Honours M.A. (English, Creative Writing)

Lily received both their Honours B.A. and M.A. in English from the University of Toronto, where they have taught courses ranging from Effective Writing to Creative Writing. They have been invited to speak at poetry seminars at the University of Toronto, and is a writing mentor for ECW Press. Their debut book of poetry, Saturn Peach, was published with Gordon Hill Press in August 2020, and was listed on CBC’s Best Canadian Poetry of 2020 list. Their debut novel, Silver Repetition, based on their Master’s thesis on the theory of repetition, was published in 2024 by House of Anansi in Canada and The New Press in the United States.

Lily believes in the beauty and necessity of the literary arts—to make language flow around, and through, our very selves—to communicate and connect; literature offers everyone a space to explore the world and the self, and to find community. Lily’s goal is to spread their joy and passion for the literary arts, and to share the tools they have gained through years of schooling and editorial work.

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Instructor

Naela Choudhary

Naela is a veteran media professional with more than two decades in the television industry. She has produced and directed numerous popular award-winning television series for major networks in Canada and the US, including Property Brothers, You Gotta Eat Here!, Late Nite Eats, and Project Bakeover, for which she received a Canadian Screen Award nomination for Best Direction.

Naela has also created her own series, I Do… Let’s Eat! for Food Network. The series ran for three seasons as a top-ten rated show in Canada and aired in 135 countries, earning a Gemini Award nomination for Best Lifestyle Program or Series. Naela began her career as a journalist at CBC, where she worked as a researcher, writer, and news anchor at CBC Newsworld. She is known for her strong editorial skills and her ability to coax a great interview out of anyone. With her diverse background in the industry, she is familiar with every stage of television production from concept through to completion.

Naela also works as a performance trainer for on-air talent. She excels in helping people shine on camera – even if they have no broadcast experience – and is passionate about mentoring young people. Known for her supportive and approachable style, Naela creates a fun and collaborative learning environment, encouraging students to develop confidence and build on their unique strengths while learning new communication skills. She looks forward to helping Brain Power’s students master the art of presenting and effectively telling their own stories.

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Instructor

Husein Madhavji

Husein is an actor, writer and broadcaster who has been a mainstay on television for more than two decades. As an actor, he has taken on diverse roles throughout his career, most notably playing Dr. Shahir Hamza for 5 seasons in the hospital drama Saving Hope, on stage starring in the Soulpepper production of Art in Toronto, and the world premiere of Tarragon Theatre’s acclaimed play Behind The Moon. He was also in the Emmy award winning seasons of Schitt’s Creek and Daniel Tiger. He can be currently be seen in the Netflix film Donkeyhead, the Disney+ animated series Mira, Royal Detective, and episodes of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds on Paramount+, and Law & Order Toronto.

As a writer, Husein’s TV pilots Desi Family and Huse Right both placed at the Launchpad Screenwriting Competition in the US. He currently has two TV projects and a feature film optioned for development.

And as TV broadcaster, he hosted a daily entertainment show in Canada that aired in over 60 countries, interviewing some of the most famous and celebrated faces in the world.

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Instructor

Jeff Biederman, B.A., B.A.A., M.Ed. (cand.)

Jeff is an award-winning TV writer and showrunner with over two decades of experience in the media industry. His extensive experience includes crafting over 250 episodes for distinguished networks such as Disney, Netflix, CBC, CTV, Rogers, and Netflix. He is the co-showrunner and co-creator of the TV movie Life With Luca, currently airing on The Family Channel, which is a reboot of the hit family comedy Life With Derek, for which he wrote and produced 70 episodes. His work on Life With Derek earned him the Writers Guild of Canada’s Best Youth Writing Award. He has also served as the showrunner for Second Jen on City TV and Spun Out on CTV, the latter of which received a Canadian Screen Award nomination for Best Comedy Series.

Jeff’s commitment to storytelling extends into education, where he shares his expertise as a professor at Seneca Polytechnic’s School of Media. He has guest lectured at The Canadian Film Centre, Centennial College, Humber College and Toronto Metropolitan University. His teaching philosophy emphasizes creativity, critical thinking, and the power of storytelling. Jeff has also played a pivotal role as a mentor in initiatives such as Bell Media’s Diverse Screenwriters Program, the Writer’s Guild of Canada Writer to Writer Program, and the BIPOC Kids TV Program. Jeff holds a B.A. from McGill University and a B.A.A. from Toronto Metropolitan University, and he is pursuing a Master of Education.

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Instructor

Hayden Finkelshtain, BFA  (Performance Acting)

Hayden is an actor, voice artist, and teacher based in Toronto. He holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Performance Acting from Toronto Metropolitan University and has been working in the field for over ten years. As an actor, Hayden has been featured in projects like See, Murdoch Mysteries, and Bakugan: Battle Planet, and has represented brands like Spotify, Oh Henry!, and Coca-Cola, in national and international commercial campaigns. 

As a teacher, Hayden has delivered courses on audition technique, public speaking, voiceover performance, industry, and performance technique at Toronto Metropolitan University and Thatz Showbiz Theatre Project. Hayden is also an occasional poetry writer, and has even been featured on the League of Canadian Poets website!

Hayden is a firm believer in meeting students where they are and building confidence through compassion. Not everyone is born with the ability to facilitate a meeting or speak to a crowd, and the only way to develop those skills in students is for an instructor to be honest and clear, but always kind.

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Instructor

Akhila Jeyatheesan  B.A. (Psychology), M.Ed. (Cand.)

Akhila earned her undergraduate degree in psychological and mental health studies from York University in Toronto, ON, and is currently pursuing her Masters of Education at Niagara University in New York, USA. With over five years of teaching experience, Akhila has worked with students from every grade, ranging from Kindergarten to Grade 12. Akhila teaches English and Social Sciences/Humanities at a post-secondary level, as well as teaching American Sign Language (ASL) to first-year university students. She also acts as an ASL interpreter for the Durham District School Board, advocating for students who are Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing. 

Akhila’s enthusiasm as an educator lies in empowering her students to embrace their unique potential and cultivate confidence in their learning journey. She consistently encourages her students to make a positive impact both inside and outside the classroom. Her dedication to nurturing young minds is evident in her approach to teaching, where she goes above and beyond to help her students reach their fullest potential.

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Instructor

Amanda De Iuliis, R.E.C.E., B.C.D

Amanda is an energetic and passionate early childhood educator with a bachelor’s degree in child development from Seneca College, King City. For almost two decades, she has worked with children from infancy to age twelve, gaining a wealth of knowledge and experience about educating young students. Amanda has also collaborated with non-profit organizations and early intervention services within York Region to support children and families experiencing challenges with growth and development. To expand her understanding of the needs of families and children dealing with adversity, she also acted as a Child Life volunteer at the Hospital for Sick Children, assisting the Emergency department and the General Surgery department in developing resources and programs for families.

Amanda is very enthusiastic and dedicated to her teaching practice, which is informed by her knowledge of children’s brain development, social development, and emotional development. Amanda knows that children thrive when they are provided with new and exciting learning opportunities and experiences. As a result, she ensures that she provides such opportunities for her students in every class.  She also organizes fundraisers in the York Region and reading clubs in coordination with the Richmond Hill Public Library. Amanda believes it is imperative for children to be in environments that emphasize their strengths and advocate for their overall wellbeing. Her unique and creative methods for teaching are beloved by her students, and she is an expert in working with our very youngest, bright minds!

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Instructor 

Chamuel Araya, B.A. (Sociology)

Chamuel has an Honors Bachelors of Arts in Sociology and a post-graduate certificate in Marketing Management. During his time at Ryerson University he was part of Ryerson ToastMasters, a public speaking group consisting of all ages and all levels of speakers. Chamuel has won multiple awards through various ToastMasters competitions, from Best Speaker to being a Finalist in the Division Area E52 Competition.

Chamuel continued his public speaking journey by teaching for various clubs, after school programs, and educational institutions; this led him to having over two and a half years of public speaking teaching experience. Chamuel is a strong believer Walt Disney’s claim that “It’s kind of fun to do the impossible.”  He thinks that nothing is impossible with the right amount of diligence, creativity, and fun. His teaching philosophy focuses on helping students find their own style of public speaking, one suited to their own unique voices and personalities. Chamuel aims to create a positive impact in the lives of his students by building up their confidence in their public speaking skills to aid in their future careers and achieve their goals.

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Instructor 

Hannah Ehman, B.A. Honours (Theatre and Drama Studies)

Hannah is a multidisciplinary artist, actor, host  and holds a Specialist Honours Bachelor Degree in Theatre and Drama Studies and minor in Anthropology from the joint program between University of Toronto Mississauga and Sheridan College. She has trained at Second City, Pro Actors Lab, On the Mic Voiceover Studio and Shaw Festival Theatre. She teaches public speaking and improv in various academies and workshops across Canada. 

She is continuing her studies in ESL education from Humber College. She’s passionate about helping students in finding and sharing their voice. Getting to know and celebrate the unique viewpoint of each student throughout the term is truly invigorating!

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Instructor

Jennifer Walton, B.A. (Theatre and Dramatic Literature)

Jennifer has been teaching acting, public speaking, and presentation skills to talented young people for more than 30 years. She also leads team-building workshops and provides coaching for the corporate world. As Co-Director of The Creative Theatre Company, guest teacher-director with Shakespearience, Artist in the Classroom with the Hamilton and Catholic School Boards, and sought after guest workshop artist, Jennifer has empowered thousands of youth and adults alike to embrace the power of their presence.

As a playwright, Jennifer is the recipient of the 2021 Voaden Prize in playwriting for GUN PLAY (after the gun goes off). Her short plays have been featured in festivals around the world. As an actor, she most recently appeared in the critically acclaimed production of Your Own Sons – Same Boat Theatre and The Soldier’s Tale – Amphion Ensemble, Hamilton. Recent film credits include Things I Do for Money – filmed entirely in Hamilton! Other acting credits include Diary of Anne Frank and The Woman in Black – Theatre Aquarius.  She directed The Tragedy of Othella Moore at the Hamilton Fringe Festival 2016 where it won Best of Fringe.

Jennifer has a degree in theatre from Brock University, studied with the Broadway legend Uta Hagen, and has spent many years studying theatrical clown with Helen Donnelly and Francine Cote of Cirque du Soleil fame.

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Instructor

Navi Singh, B.A. (Law and Society), Post-Graduate Certification in Government Relations 

Navi has a Bachelor of Arts in Law and Society from York University and a post-graduate certificate in Government Relations (Seneca College). With nearly a decade worth of teaching experience, Navi has become well equipped to teach various ages and personality types. Navi works with various schools in the Toronto, York, and Peel region school boards to provide lessons on cybersecurity and digital citizenship for students. These lessons focus on teaching students how to conduct themselves online, as well as how their actions today can impact their future careers.

Navi’s main goal when teaching students is to make lessons fun, memorable, and relatable. He will often use examples from his personal life as a teacher, working professional, and competitive gamer to show students different perspectives. Navi loves to bring humour into his lessons, and he strives to make every student feel comfortable and welcome in the classroom.

Public speaking has provided Navi with countless opportunities in his life, and he wants nothing more than to have those opportunities be available to his students as they grow. Navi believes that we cannot allow public speaking to become a lost art.

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Instructor

Juliann Garisto, B.A. (English, Minor in Philosophy), M.A. (English, Creative Writing)

Juliann is a writer and editor who received her M.A. in English and Creative Writing from the University of Toronto. She writes fiction, creative non-fiction, and the occasional poem.  Juliann is determined to share what she has learned in her creative practice and her academic pursuits with students of all ages and walks of life. Juliann believes that anyone with a basic education can learn to write; good writing is chiefly a practice of being able to sit still, listen, and focus. 

Juliann is passionate about education and sincerely convinced that any student has the potential to excel in any given field, so long as they have the interest and the motivation. Having assisted in teaching university courses (including Creative Writing, Effective Writing, and Intro to Canadian Literature), Juliann has learned that not everyone absorbs knowledge in the same way. She believes that good teaching involves being able to cater to students who have unconventional learning needs, but also pushing students out of their comfort zone, encouraging them to take risks and to not be afraid of making mistakes.

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Instructor

Julie Ann Phillips B.A.(Sociology), B.Ed., M.Ed.

Julie obtained her B.A. from McMaster University in 1994. After losing her mother to Breast Cancer in 2003, she left a successful career with Canada Trust to follow her true passion and obtain her B.Ed. and M.Ed. at Medaille College. She taught at a private school in Mississauga for three years before transitioning to the Peel District School board in 2007, and she has been teaching various grades since that time. 

She is a firm believer in the power of positivity and strives to bring that attitude into her classroom. She is a dedicated and passionate educator who firmly believes that when children are empowered to take chances in their learning they gain the confidence and self-esteem to be risk takers and independent thinkers. She believes that when educators and families work together as a team to encourage and support the child, anything is possible! 

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Instructor

Rachel Fawcett, Honours B.A. (Creative Writing, English Language, and Literature; Classical Studies), M.A. (Classics and Archaeology)

Rachel received her Honours B.A. with a Specialization in Creative Writing, English Language, and Literature, as well as a Major in Classical Studies, in 2022 from Western University. She went on to receive her M.A. in Classics and Archaeology from Brock University in 2024. Rachel is very passionate about identity, and this passion was manifested through eight works (seven poems and one narrative essay) published during her undergraduate career. Her Major Research Paper focused on the complex mixture of positive and negative symbolism present in fifth-century BCE Athenian depictions of Achaemenid Persians in order to show how the traditional arguments for either a positive or negative interpretation of paintings simplifies the Atheno-Persian relationship.

Rachel has been participating in teaching roles since 2010, first as a figure skating and fastpitch coach, then as a tutor and teaching assistant, and, most recently, as a Teacher’s Assistant at Brock University, where she led seminars on ancient Greek history and ancient Roman society. As an educator, she strives to encourage her students to express themselves and their opinions through helping them develop their literary skills and finding their voices.

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Instructor

Lisa Martin, B.A. (Geography, Sociology), B.Ed.

Lisa earned her Honours Bachelor of Arts degree at the University of Toronto in 1988, specializing in Sociology and majoring in Geography. She then completed her Bachelor of Education at Queen’s University in 1989, specializing in the Primary and Junior Divisions. For over 30 years, Lisa has been actively involved in teaching primary and junior students with the Dufferin Peel Catholic District School Board. 

Lisa is a dedicated and hard-working teacher who is passionate about creating a positive, supporting, and engaging learning environment. Her love for teaching continually inspires her to foster student curiosity with motivating lessons and activities. Her commitment is to provide the best possible learning experience, so her students develop a lifetime love of learning.  

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Instructor

Rosemary Genova, Honours B.A. (History and Politcal Science), B.Ed., O.C.T.

Rosemary earned her Honours Bachelor of Arts degree in History and Political Science and her Bachelor of Education both in 1997 at York University. For the past 24 years, Rosemary has been a dedicated member of the York Catholic District School Board. During her tenure, she has taught various grades, from FDK to Grade 8, demonstrating a commitment to ensuring every student receives a high-quality education. 

Rosemary’s teaching philosophy is a testament to her passion for education and unwavering belief in each of her students. She believes in setting clear learning goals and differentiating instruction to accommodate diverse needs, ensuring no student is left behind. Rosemary recognizes the importance of building positive classroom environments rooted in honesty and mutual respect. She believes in motivating students to achieve their potential, and challenging them to become critical thinkers. 

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Instructor

Vivian Policelli, Honours B.A. (French & Italian, Minor in Spanish), B.Ed.

Vivian completed her Honours Bachelor of Arts at the University of Toronto in 1995, specializing in the French and Italian languages with a minor in the Spanish language.  Following graduation, Vivian pursued a career in Information Technology, where she was able to use the French language to complete her daily tasks as a Contract Specialist. After several years working in I.T., Vivian decided that it was time to fulfill her dream of becoming a teacher.  In 2004, Vivian completed the Professional Program in Education at D’Youville College in New York. Since then, she has been working as a French language teacher with the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board.

Vivian’s passion for teaching and dedication to her students is evident in her classroom.  She provides an engaging learning environment that encourages all students to achieve their highest potential.  Differentiated instruction and the use of technology in both her planning and delivery of the curriculum, form the foundation of her well-organized classes. Vivian works closely with students, offering encouragement and positive reinforcement, while providing an enriched curriculum in a safe and respectful learning environment.

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Instructor

Naomi Angert, B.A. (Early Childhood Education), B.Ed

Naomi completed her B.A. in early childhood education. She then went on to complete her B.Ed. at York University. During her studies, she worked as a Research Assistant for the Brain and Early Experience Lab at Toronto Metropolitan University. Naomi worked with families and young children to support them when participating in research studies and organized and transcribed research data. Naomi has worked as a Registered Early Childhood Educator for over 5 years. Most recently, she has been teaching students from FDK to Grade 3 and collaborating with families with the Toronto and York Region school boards. 

Naomi is passionate about fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity through inquiry-based learning. She believes that students learn best when they are actively engaged in exploring questions and seeking answers. She has a personal and professional interest in the science of reading and actively partakes in professional development to continue her learning in supporting students’ early literacy skills. Outside of the classroom, Naomi enjoys drawing, dancing, hiking, and reading. She values arts education and recognizes its ability to cultivate children’s imagination and expression. 

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Instructor

Deacon Lunsky, Specialized Honours B.A. (Concurrent Education), B.Ed. 

Deacon completed his Honours degree in a concurrent education program, Catholic Studies for Teachers, at the University of Western Ontario in 2022. He then completed his Bachelor of Education, also at Western University, in 2024. Deacon has an incredibly diverse range of teaching experiences, including teaching kindergarten programs at his parish, instructing swimming lessons, coaching a wide variety of sports teams, conducting adult education safety and personal protective equipment seminars, and he is currently running multiple literacy workshops for ESL/ELL students.

Deacon’s passion for teaching stems from his large family of teachers. He has had countless family members to influence his understanding of the value of an effective teacher. Deacon’s philosophy on education is rooted in the idea that the most effective teachers are the ones who seek meaningful relationships with each of their students. He is committed to continuously learning the most effective differentiated teaching practices because he knows the importance of embracing the unique learning styles of every student. By catering to the needs of each individual student and engaging all students with his entertaining lessons, Deacon creates a learning environment in which every student feels welcomed, encouraged, and empowered. His mission is to ensure that his students enjoy the learning process.

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Instructor

Shaji Suganthan, Honours BA (English), B.Ed (cand.)

Shaji completed her Bachelor of Arts Honours in English from York University and is also pursuing her Bachelor of Education at the same university through the concurrent program. As she enters her second and final year of the program, her passion for teaching and providing diverse learning experiences for students continues to grow. With over five years of teaching experience, Shaji continues to learn different teaching methods that can be beneficial to students with various social and academic needs.

Dedicated to making an impact on every student she teaches, Shaji is extremely passionate about the needs of her students and approaches her lessons in a manner that is most suitable for them. Understanding the academic and emotional needs of her students plays a critical role in her teaching philosophy. She believes in her students and works toward creating a diverse and positive classroom. Her dedication is evident through her consistent efforts to uplift her students and help them recognize the brilliance within them. Shaji is looking forward to joining the amazing team at Brain Power and helping children to unleash their full academic potential.

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Instructor

Chantell Tran, Honours B.A.Sc. (Early Childhood Studies), M.T (Cand.) 

Chantell completed her Honours Bachelor of Applied Science In Early Childhood Studies from the University of Guelph-Humber. As a current Master of Teaching student at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE) at the University of Toronto, Chantell is passionate about creating inclusive and meaningful learning opportunities for all students. She is currently completing her research, where she is focusing on the assessment of automatic promotion on students’ success. More specifically looking at the intersection of individual learning needs and educational gaps that can impact students’ academic and social success.

With over 7 years of teaching experience, Chantell has worked with children from infancy to age fourteen, gaining new perspectives and knowledge about educating students. Through a culturally relevant and responsive pedagogy approach, Chantell is dedicated to creating a welcoming learning environment for all, in which students can grow to their fullest potential. As a lifelong learner, Chantell is excited to be part of an amazing team at Brain Power.

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Instructor

Nirali Patel, B.A. (Honors), M.A. (Educational Leadership & Policy)

Nirali holds a Bachelor of Arts from University of Toronto specializing in History and Urban Studies, and Master of Arts from the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE). Her master’s thesis explored how learners conceptualize learning through creating shared spaces of learning, a sense of community, and storytelling.

Over the last decade, Nirali has been working with students across various settings including K-12, higher education, and non-profit, where she seeks to support individuals in becoming future-ready lifelong learners both in and outside of the classroom. At the university level, Nirali worked closely with a team to develop a community curriculum of relevant readings and resources for a Master’s level course. She has also worked in the non-profit space, where she explored ways to reduce barriers to participation for adult learners seeking technology training from Canadian colleges and universities. Outside of this, she has developed and facilitated several workshop series for equity-seeking youth around wellbeing and social justice.

Nirali strives to foster critical thinking, meaningful collaboration and deeper learning for students. She is an advocate for design thinking and incorporates problem solving opportunities in the classroom for learners to create meaningful solutions to real world issues. She wants all her students to pursue their curiosity, nurture their creativity and feel empowered to shape the world around them.

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Instructor

Olga Fridman, B.Sc., B.Ed., M.Ed., M.Sc. (Mathematics – Differential Geometry)

Olga Fridman holds Masters degrees in Mathematics and Education (Honours Specialist in Gifted Education) from the University of Toronto. She is an experienced mathematics teacher with nearly three decades of teaching in the Toronto District School Board.

Olga’s love of educating bright young minds is evident in her student-centred and inspiring approach to teaching; she is excited by critical thinking and creative problem-solving techniques, and shares her passion for mathematics with gusto. Olga is thrilled to bring her expertise in both teaching and mathematics to Brain Power.

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Instructor

Ella Gutin, B.Ed., M.Ed. (Mathematics)

Ella Gutin has a B.Ed, M.Ed and Mathematics Degree, she has taught in three different countries where she received many teaching certifications. Ella began her career in Russia, where she taught in an elementary school. Later she moved to Israel, where she taught mathematics in grades 1-10 and received teaching certificates from the Ministry of Education and Culture of Israel. She has also received training and implemented special education programs for gifted children and for children with learning disabilities. Upon coming to Canada she received her teaching certification and has been teaching continuously. She experienced all three-education systems and gained great knowledge and experience dealing with different students, situations, expectations, and curriculums. She is passionate about math and her goal is to inspire young minds to see the beauty of math.

While working in all three countries she always tried to develop and implant programs and methodologies to students of different levels, she strengthen her expertise in classroom management, student relations and learner retention as well as gaining in depth knowledge of children’s developmental psychology. Ella is always researching and implementing new techniques and methods to create better and more effective lesson plans.

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Instructor

Sana Spektor, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. (Mathematics)

Sana Spektor received her two PhDs from the Department of Mathematics at the Dnipro State University and the University of Alberta. Throughout her teaching career, she has had opportunities to interact with students at all stages of life, from grade school to college, at the university level and post-degree, in classroom, online, and one-on-one settings. The insights she has gained into how students learn have helped her to make the teacher that she is.

In Sana’s experience, the three biggest obstacles to learning are a student’s belief that math is boring, math is impossibly difficult, or math is irrelevant to real life. In response, she has developed a threefold teaching philosophy. Make math interesting: Sana brings excitement and a storyline to her classes, using energy and enthusiasm to teach ideas, guiding students along a path where each new concept is a natural consequence of the previous and a natural precursor to the next. Make math possible: Sana makes sure her students understand that while a problem may be long or difficult, they have all the tools needed to solve it. Make math relevant: Sana stresses that mathematics has a profound impact on our daily lives, and she provides real-life examples where mathematics is used.

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Instructor

Zhen Wang, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. (Applied Mathematics)

Zhen Wang earned her Ph.D. from the University of Waterloo, a globally leading math program in North America. Her research interests broadly include building and analyzing mathematical models for a variety of biological systems. Recently, she has been working on projects involving the effect of disease latency, and optimal vaccination strategies using systems of delay differential equations. She has published seven academic articles in the field of biological mathematics.

Zhen has tutored over 20 undergraduate-level university courses during her doctoral studies and taught Calculus I, II, III, Linear Algebra, and Differential Equations after graduation. She enjoys teaching and supporting her students through their academic journey and brings with her extensive knowledge and passion for math!

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Instructor

Marcelo Bacha, B.Sc. (Physics-Education), M.Sc. (Material Science & Technology), Ph.D. (Material Science & Engineering)

Marcelo completed his undergraduate degree in Physics-Education and his master’s degree in Material Science and Technology at Sao Paulo State University Julio de Mesquita Filho. He completed his doctoral degree in Material Science and Engineering at the University of Sao Paulo.

Marcelo worked for six years as a monitor and an amateur telescope maker at the Astronomical Observatory Lionel Jose Andriatto, and for two years as a teacher in one of the biggest Astronomical Observatories in Brazil CEU Foundation. During this time he coauthored the book Construção e utilização de lunetas no ensino de astronomia (The Construction and the Use of Telescopes in Astronomy Teaching). He also has four years of experience in university-level Mechanical Engineering departments, teaching physics, thermodynamics, heat and mass transfer, CAD, as well as supervising capstone projects and undergraduate research.

As a teacher, Marcelo believes in the Paulo Freire theory, which says that true education provides freedom by teaching students how to learn through critical thinking.

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Instructor

Vadim Tyuryaev, M.Sc., Ph.D. (Cand.) Statistics

Vadim is an international educator and a data scientist with extensive academic and industry experience. A PhD candidate in Statistics at York University, he holds a M.Sc. in Statistics from Texas Tech University, and a US teaching license. 

The background of Vadim’s teaching career spans over 10 years and includes multiple countries such as Mexico, Bahrain, China, and the United States. He has taught at top international schools whose graduates attend leading North American universities.

Vadim’s teaching philosophy is centred around the belief that extensive practice and a focus on mental mathematics are essential to a comprehensive understanding of mathematical fundamentals. In his classroom, he prioritizes the development of a strong foundation in mathematics, recognizing the crucial role that it plays in a student’s academic success. He also believes in the power of artificial intelligence (AI) as a tool to support education and to make it more personalized and efficient. He views AI as a tool to provide targeted and individualized instruction that caters to each student’s unique learning style and needs. By leveraging the power of technology, he aims to create a dynamic and engaging learning environment that inspires his students to reach their full potential.

Throughout his career, Vadim has honed his teaching skills through a wide range of experiences in diverse cultural contexts. These experiences have taught him to be adaptable, flexible, and empathetic, enabling Vadim to connect with students from various backgrounds and create inclusive learning environments that foster academic growth and personal development.

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Instructor

Anthony Di Corte, Honours B.Sc., B.Ed., M.Ed. (Developmental Psychology) 

Anthony Di Corte completed his B.Ed in 2018, then went on to obtain an M.Ed. in Developmental Psychology in 2020. His specialties include mathematics and science for all grade levels, but he is also passionate about (and certified to teach) special education, including gifted and enrichment programming.

His teaching philosophy is modelled on a quotation from Albert Einstein: “Education is not the learning of facts, but the training of the mind to think.” He believes that we, as educators, have a responsibility to guide our learners to think critically beyond the curriculum and beyond the the classroom.

Anthony strives to make his classroom an inclusive, diverse, and safe-space for all learners while fostering a cohesive and balanced learning environment.

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Instructor

Zebina Jiwani, Honours B.Sc. (Psychology), B.Ed., M.Ed. 

Zebina earned her B.Sc (Honours Psychology) and B.Ed in the York university concurrent program. Upon graduation she taught in rural Alberta for three years, until coming home to earn her M.Ed at OISE.  Zebina has 30 years of teaching experience, most of which has been spent teaching Math at a Toronto high school. As a result, she is well versed in curriculum development and assessment strategies.

Zebina passionately believes that all students are capable learners.  Her classroom motto is “Firm, Fair, and Friendly.” She embodies the principles of universal design for learning in her classroom to optimize her students’ engagement and success by providing information and content in a variety of ways, and encouraging her students to use various ways of expressing what they know. Zebina is very excited to bring her experience and enthusiasm for teaching Math to Brain Power!

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Instructor

Abigail Fisher, Honours BSc. (Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour), M.A. (Cand.)

Abigail is a Master of Arts student at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE) at the University of Toronto. She is also a proud alumnus of McMaster University where she studied Psychology, Neuroscience, and Behaviour (Mental Health Specialization). Abigail holds positions as a researcher at the University of Alberta and Unity Health Toronto. She has won awards for her master’s thesis proposal and has presented her research at many conferences across Canada. She is currently researching the implementation of mental health services in Ontario’s public schools. 

Abigail is dedicated to student success and well-being. She believes that all students have the potential to succeed and wants to support as many students as she can on their education journeys. As such, she is a peer academic success coach at OISE and was previously a tutor to secondary school students. Abigail has worked with students from all ages and brings enthusiasm and laughter to language arts. She has been praised for her dedication and teaching in writing.   

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Instructor

Lauren De Fulviis, Specialized Honours B.A (Kinesiology and Health Sciences), B.Ed.

Lauren completed her B.A. in Kinesiology and Health Sciences and her B.Ed. at York University. She is passionate about math and science and strives to develop a love for these subjects in her students through fun and engaging learning environments. Lauren is an OCT member and her teaching certifications include elementary, secondary Health and Physical education, as well as Grade 9-12 science.

At the core of Lauren’s teaching philosophy is a strong belief in utilizing student approaches that empower their sense of self and encourage them to cultivate skills needed for becoming not only the best version of themselves but also successful global citizens. Lauren is committed to using multi-modal and diverse techniques that deviate away from banking models of education within her teaching practice. By doing so, she fosters an inclusive space for learning that aids in developing critical thinking skills needed for lifelong learning.

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Instructor

Aradhana Misra, M.Sc. (Mathematics), MCA (Computer Applications)

Aradhana holds postgraduate degrees in Mathematics (MSc) and Computer Applications (MCA). Her academic journey has been decorated with several prestigious accolades, including Gold Medals in Physics and Mathematics during her undergraduate and postgraduate years. She began her career with groundbreaking research in robotics within the Mechanical Engineering Department at a leading Indian Institute of Technology (India). However, her deep passion for teaching led her to transition into education, where she has since amassed over 15 years of distinguished experience.

Aradhana served as a Trained Graduate Teacher in India, where she was actively involved in shaping young minds. Before moving to Canada, she contributed significantly to the development of a comprehensive mathematics curriculum for Grades 6 to 12 at an innovative start-up in Gurgaon. She also assisted in proofreading and refining the content of a major mathematics textbook and served as a guest lecturer on Mathematical Methods in Engineering and Science at Indian Institute of Technology (India). After moving to Canada, but before joining Brain Power, she was affiliated with the University of Toronto’s Mathematics Department, where she excelled as a program leader and instructor in outreach programs for gifted students.

Aradhana’s teaching philosophy is centered on fostering curiosity and exploration. She encourages students to think critically about mathematical problems and express their reasoning clearly. Her approach emphasizes building personal connections with students, making learning both accessible and enjoyable by relating complex concepts to real-world experiences. She believes that a teacher should embody qualities of care, dedication, selflessness, and enthusiasm. She strives to meet students at their individual energy levels, nurturing and guiding their growth according to their unique needs. Aradhana enters the classroom daily with a commitment to sparking a natural interest in mathematics, making it both enjoyable and accessible for all.

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