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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 & Instructor

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 & Instructor

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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Halton and Peel Regions Campus Headmaster & Instructor

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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Instructor & 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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Head of Toronto Campuses, member of the Executive Team, & Instructor

Joel Benabu, Honours B.A. (English and Theatre), Ph.D. (Renaissance Theatre in England – Shakespeare)*

Dr. Joel Benabu’s research interests include English Renaissance drama (Shakespeare’s stagecraft, specifically), theory of drama and performance, and Ancient rhetoric. Among his publications are: “’Shakespeare’s Technique of Opening: ‘Strands of Action’”, Theatre Topics, The Johns Hopkins University Press; “Shakespeare and the Rhetorical Tradition: Towards Defining the Concept of an “Opening”, Rhetoric Review, Routledge; “Shakespeare’s Stagecraft in Constructing an Opening: Macbeth”, The Shakespeare Newsletter; and “Shakespeare’s Macbeth: The Challenge of Reading a Theatrical Opening”, Mediaevalia. Joel’s book manuscript, Shakespeare and the Strategies of an Opening, has recently been accepted for publication (2022). Joel has acted in and directed for the theatre.

Over the years, Joel has taught a broad variety of university courses in the humanities as well as courses in academic writing, critical thinking, and oral presentation. Closely aligned with Brain Power’s mandate, Joel’s pedagogical philosophy maintains that students thrive best in a learning environment that challenges and empowers them. Consequently, his teaching method is less about imparting information and more about giving students the tools to forge their own pathways of knowledge. This can be achieved most effectively by helping students build a diverse skill set and confidence over time. In order to do so, all of Joel’s courses at Brain Power will work with creative pedagogical tools (developing new ways of engaging students) and assess the pedagogical tools developed in order to improve learning objectives over time. Joel’s overarching goal as an instructor at Brain Power is to make students realize their full potential to make a difference in their own lives as well as the lives of others in their community.

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Instructor

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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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.”

Instructor

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

Ryan Fics 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. Ryan 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, Ryan has taught Introduction to Ethics in the Centre for Ethics at the University of Toronto. Currently, he is a private high school teacher and continues to regularly attend national and international conferences. He has published articles and interviews in peer-reviewed journals and book chapters in presses such as Palgrave Macmillan. Along with teaching, Ryan is working on a book about animals, AI and climate change.

Ryan’s goal as an educator is not to teach, but to awaken. 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 Ryan’s teaching methodology includes enhancing understanding and motivating curiosity in the student population by helping his learners gain mastery over the foundations of a topic so that they can effectively synthesize, evaluate, and communicate information in compassionate ways. As an instructor at Brain Power, Ryan’s aim is to help his 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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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

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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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, 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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Instructor & Admissions Ambassador

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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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

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

Anita Stalteri, Honours B.B.A. (Marketing Specialist), B.Ed.

Anita earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from Wilfrid Laurier University and then earned her Bachelor of Education from Brock University.  

Anita is an experienced and passionate educator who has enjoyed over 20 years of teaching and learning with the Peel District School Board.  Her experience includes working as both a teacher and Guidance Counsellor for secondary students, teaching an array of courses, ranging from Business Studies, Mathematics, and Leadership, and supporting students with their postsecondary goals.  

Anita takes an asset-based approach to teaching, in which she sees each student as an individual who brings to their learning environment their own unique identity and strengths.  She believes strongly that leveraging these is the key to connecting with kids, building relationships, and making learning more meaningful and fun!

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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

Olivia Pietraszko, B.Sc. (Psychology), B.Ed., M.Ed.

Olivia is a passionate educator with years of teaching experience. Her own educational journey began when she achieved her honours Bachelor of Science at the University of Toronto, majoring in psychology and minoring in ethics and sociology. She continued to follow her educational path, inspired by her interest in children’s development and the significant impact of education and pursued a master’s degree in education with an emphasis in developmental psychology at OISE, University of Toronto collaborating with world-renowned Ph.D. professors. These same twin passions led her to study at Tyndale University, where she received her Bachelor of Education and teacher certification in the primary/ junior level.

Olivia has a strong background in the Reggio-Emilia educational approach, which emphasizes the importance of experiential learning and the learning environment. Encouraged and inspired by hands-on learning, this approach encourages students to use their senses to investigate, learn, and flourish. Olivia is an avid advocate for being a co-learner alongside the classroom community.  She believes in the importance of socio-emotional development, making sure the students feel seen and valued in their everyday educational experiences. She works to implement a curriculum based on children’s interests, and employs creative, engaging, and stimulating activities. Olivia believes that an educator must consider the whole child and encourage academic, social, physical, cognitive and emotional development.

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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 MA 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

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

Monica Heer, B.A. (Sociology), B.Ed., O.C.T.

Monica completed her B.A. at University of Toronto. She went on to complete her B.Ed. and became a member of the Ontario College of Teachers. Monica has been in the teaching profession since 2005, working with primary, junior, and intermediate students. At the inception of her career, she began to pursue her English as a Second Language (ESL) Additional Qualifications (AQ) and completed her specialization in 2007. Today Monica is an AQ Instructor with Queen’s University, where she teaches several online courses to educators. Monica has taught at both the Peel District and the York Region District school boards.

Monica has found a great deal of satisfaction working with students of all ages. She believes in creating a classroom environment that fosters a growth mindset, critical thinking, and a forum for everyone to share their ideas. She is always driven to further her knowledge and is passionate in engaging others through their learning journey. 

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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

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

Renu Kohli, B.A., (History),  B.Ed., M.Ed (Studies in Teaching and Learning)

Renu Kohli is a principal with 22 years in school administration and teaching (elementary and secondary panels). She is committed to change leadership, dismantling anti-racism and anti-oppression, and creating inclusive, safe, and brave learning environments (virtual and in-person). Renu is a passionate equity leader focused on meeting the needs of students through innovation, inquiry and authentic learning experiences. Renu advocates for students to achieve their own personal excellence and wellness, as well as to be confident global leaders of the future. Her leadership across several school boards has been focused on equity, inclusion and support, and advocacy for students with learning exceptionalities and special education needs. She brings a wealth of experience in equity and special education and student achievement. As an experienced educational leader, Renu has examined her privilege and uses her voice and platform to challenge, disrupt, dismantle beliefs and decision-making traditions. As a principal, she mentors staff in the development of culturally responsive and relevant pedagogy, facilitating discussions about acquisition and use of resources, as well as framing learning activities to be inclusive and to be reflective of the whole student and their lived experiences, so a safe learning environment is established where all students feel that they matter and belong.

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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

Stephanie Marando, Specialized Honours B.A (Kinesiology), B.Ed.

Stephanie completed her specialized Kinesiology degree in 2017 and completed her Bachelor of Education in 2019 at York University.  Her teaching specialties include mathematics and science for all grade levels, and she is also certified to teach physical education, special education, family studies, guidance and careers, and social science courses.

At the core of her teaching philosophy lies a desire to empower the next generation, so that they may succeed and make lasting, positive contributions to society. Using a multi-modal approach to teaching, she fosters students’ critical-thinking and problem-solving skills. By creating a nurturing and inclusive learning environment, she aims to instill not only subject-specific knowledge but also essential life skills that transcend the boundaries of the classroom.

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Instructor

Mark Plotkin, B.A. (Political Science and Government), International Master

Mark is an International Master (IM), who has been playing chess since he was 4 years old and has been teaching chess for the past five years. He achieved his Fide Master (FM) title in the summer of 2018, when he also got his first International Master (IM) norm in the Philadelphia International. He led University of Toronto to first place in the Canadian University Chess Championships in 2019, when he also got his second IM norm at the Canadian Chess Championships (Zonals), where he tied for 4th place. He became an International Master (IM) in 2020, and he is currently inside the top 15 in Canada.

Mark’s chess classes provide a structured curriculum,  direct coaching, expert guidance, game analysis, ample opportunities for practice, and lots of fun! Chess instruction can help students improve their critical thinking, logical reasoning, and spatial reasoning skills, as well as their focus and memory recall.

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Instructor

Sam Taylor

Sam is a provincial award-winning speaker and BBA candidate at the Schulich School of Business, with specializations in marketing and strategic management. He also holds certifications in analytical, strategic, and social media marketing from Cornell University.

Previously a student at Brain Power, Sam is now an instructor and curriculum developer in the Public Speaking Academy. Having designed and taught lessons in classical rhetoric, formal logic, conflict resolution, and empathy, Sam has mastered his approach to helping students become more confident, articulate, and expressive. In the classroom, he seeks to help students develop the confidence and logical rigour that can set them apart in life-changing ways.

Sam has put his own teachings into practice as a Speaker’s Idol first-place winner and keynote speaker for Markham Mayor’s Youth Council. Beyond his engagements in the community, Sam has honed his approach to interpersonal communication across a diversity of roles: from a legal administrative associate to an analyst working with start-up firms in venture capital, Sam teaches from experience in negotiating, managing conflicts, helping sell winning ideas, and building lasting relationships.

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