Our Staff

Priya Goorbarry – VP, Operations and Administration

As VP of Operations and Administration, Priya is responsible for planning, directing, coordinating, and supervising all administrative and operational functions and activities across all departments at Empowerment Squared. Working closely with the leadership team, she directs organization-wide collaboration on projects, processes, and systems both internally and externally to ensure that Empowerment Squared operations are efficient and effective. Priya strives to promote teamwork, collaboration, and the implementation of best practices across all departments at Empowerment Squared.

She is a seasoned administrative executive with over a decade of experience and holds a Honours Bachelor of Commerce degree from McMaster University. When Priya is not working or with family & friends, she likes being outdoors, exploring and the idea of camping, but first would prefer to try glamping.

Norma Nazi – Controller

As Controller, Norma is responsible for leading the organization’s Finance Department. She is a CPA, and holds a Bachelor (Honors) in Accounting from Brock University. Working closely with the Executive Director, Board of Directors, and the Finance Committee, Norma oversees the organization’s financial planning, and financial operations. Her expertise spans non-profit financial management, taxes, financial planning and statements, budgeting and reporting.

She is an experienced Accountant with over ten years of professional experience in taxes, manufacturing, and the non-profit sectors. Previously, she worked for over 10 years in the travel and tourism industry. Norma serves as a member of the Accounting Program Advisory Committee at Mohawk College, where she acts as a sector expert, and advises program planners and faculty to ensure accounting students are well prepared to enter the workforce. In her free time, Norma loves woodworking, gardening and plants, and enjoys the outdoors and horseback riding with her daughter.

Ann-Marie Anie – Director, Programs

As Director of Programs, Ann-Marie is responsible for creating, planning and coordinating curriculum, managing volunteers and participants, liaising with community members, and supervising administrative and operational tasks for Homework Circle, School Readiness Project, and overseeing the creation of the Career Development Pilot Project. Working closely with colleagues, she directs, manages, and collaborates on projects, processes, and systems to ensure that Educational Programming is efficient and effective. Ann-Marie has a passion for inspiring and empowering others towards being their highest and greatest selves by using an asset and holistic based approach. 

She is an accomplished teacher with over 19 years of experience, both locally and internationally, and holds a Masters in Education from The State University of New York. In addition to teaching in the classroom, Ann-Marie has been a certified yoga instructor for over 5 years. She is also a Board member for Schools of Dreams. She co-authored a unit on Lincoln Alexander for the Hamilton Wentworth District School Board which received an award from the Elementary Teachers of Ontario. Currently, she is updating it with a co-author. Some of her interests include vegetarian cooking, writing, and spending time with loved ones.

Rebecca Morikawa – Senior Manager, Impact & Innovation 

As Senior Manager of Impact & Innovation, Rebecca is responsible for leading organizational metrics and evaluation strategy, and guiding innovative, culturally responsive evaluation approaches and reporting strategies. In her role, she supports the team with impact reporting, and research and development. As part of the Senior Leadership Team, she strives to provide efficient reporting frameworks for the Empowerment Squared team, and collaborates with community partners in the Greater Hamilton Area to work towards system level change.

With over five years of experience at Empowerment Squared, she is a passionate advocate for innovative systems level change, and works with community partners and public institutions like school boards and government entities. She holds a Master’s degree in Political Science from McMaster University. If Rebecca is not working or spending time with family, friends and her dog Koda, she is usually checking out local restaurants, watching sports, travelling, or reading.

Francoise Yesaya-Keddy – Manager, Professional Skills and Entrepreneurship

As Manager of Professional Skills and Entrepreneurship, Francoise is responsible for planning, supervising, and overseeing the department’s operations. She plays a key role in managing both the overall department and the Southwestern Ontario Black Entrepreneurship Network (SWOBEN), including logistics, operations, and communications. Her focus is on ensuring the successful execution of programs, with a priority on advancing the leadership skills and business acumen of Black entrepreneurs in Southwestern Ontario.

Francoise is a seasoned professional, bringing over a decade of experience in the education and non-profit sectors to her role. She holds a Master’s degree in History from the University of Toronto and a Bachelor’s degree in Francophone Literature from the University of British Columbia. Beyond her professional endeavours, Francoise has a deep passion for her faith and family. She enjoys sharing and listening to family stories and fostering connections through these shared experiences.

Chantelle Ashley – Manager, International

As Manager of International Programs, Chantelle Ashley is responsible for developing, overseeing, and implementing the international initiatives that advance Empowerment Squared’s mission to enhance the capacity and agency of partners and communities in Canada and Africa through impactful, culturally-responsive programs. In her role, she leads innovative program delivery for projects that include the International Youth Internship Program and the entrepreneurial skills development project to Harness Opportunities to Promote Entrepreneurship (HOPE), which leverage partnerships and ecosystems in Canada and West Africa.

Chantelle has a rich educational leadership and development background and a wealth of experience in program management and coordination, youth development, and team empowerment, with particular emphasis on working with African organizations in English and French. With a Bachelor’s degree in French and Linguistics and a Post-Graduate certification as a language educator, she has spent her career merging her love of people and data to support programs that help individuals and organizations leverage their strengths to create sustainable change.

An avid traveler, amateur photographer, and artist, Chantelle often indulges in all three as she explores her new city and tries to persuade her two children to join the fun.

Cherie Warner-Richard – Manager, Education

As Manager of Educational Programs, Cherie is responsible for coordinating the South Western Ontario Black Entrepreneurship Network (SWOBEN) in Hamilton. This coordination includes logistics, operations, and communications, to ensure smooth and effective program development and execution, workshops, and networking events with a goal to build the business acumen of SWOBEN participants.

Cherie brings a wealth of experience and a deep-rooted passion for community empowerment to her role as Coordinator of Professional Skills and Entrepreneurship at Empowerment Squared. With a Bachelor of Arts degree in Linguistics and a rich background in entrepreneurship spanning over twelve years in the fashion and décor industries, Cherie is committed to fostering the growth and development of aspiring entrepreneurs within SWOBEN.

Cherie shares her love for culture and the performing arts with local youth through her foundation and serves on the board of two local non-profits. She enjoys singing in local choirs, attending plays, and creating beautiful artwork in her spare time.

Faid Adil  –  Senior Coordinator, System Navigation

As Senior Coordinator for System Navigation, Faid works closely with students and families to support their children achieve positive educational outcomes. In addition to working with students and families, Faid collaborates with key strategic partners such as the Hamilton Wentworth District School Board and Children’s Aid Society to ensure the students are well equipped and supported to succeed and reach their full potential.

Faid holds a Bachelor of Social Work Degree from Ryerson University, as well as a Social Service Worker Diploma from Mohawk College. Faid has over 8 years of experience in the non-profit sector with a large focus on newcomer settlement in the Hamilton area. Faid is passionate about learning and facing new challenges that contribute to her growth and success, both personally and professionally. Faid is also very passionate about foods from different cultures, and you can find her reading creepy thrillers or fulfilling her passion for running with local clubs like Air Up There Run Crew and Steel Town Athletic Club.

Cladette Uyigue – Executive Assistant & Senior Administrator

As Executive Assistant & Senior Coordinator of Administration, Cladette is responsible for providing leadership and assistance with Empowerment Squared’s administration activities and other initiatives for newcomer and marginalized families to further Empowerment Squared’s mission and vision. Working alongside the fellow coordinators and the management team she supports the work of the management team and mission & vision of Empowerment Squared by providing administrative and logistical support.

She is an experienced administrative team lead with strong insights on ensuring organizational operations run smoothly and efficiently. She holds a Bachelor of Kinesiology degree from Brock University. She is very passionate about all aspects of fitness and general well-being. She loves spending time with her loved ones and creating memories. She enjoys traveling, reading, working out and binge-watching tv shows.

 Lindsay Richardson –  Coordinator, Education

As Coordinator of Education, Lindsay aids in facilitating Empowerment Squared’s programming in programs such as the Homework Club. Within this role, Lindsay establishes and maintains relationships with participants in the program, inclusive of volunteers and students, and nurtures them to create a positive learning and social environment. Her goal is to create an environment where students are empowered and encouraged to reach their fullest potential, with the support of those around them. Further, she collaborates with the full-time educational coordinator to develop and review the program curriculum before it is delivered to youth.

Lindsay has recently graduated with a Bachelor of Social Work from Toronto Metropolitan University, with additional minors in criminology and psychology. She also brings experience within the field, having worked with other social service organizations focusing on outreach, and empowering individuals to reach their fullest potential. Additionally, Lindsay brings multiple years of customer service experience, and a passion for lifelong learning and development, both professionally and personally. In her free time, Lindsay greatly enjoys spending time 5-pin bowling competitively, continuously striving to compete on a national level. She also enjoys crocheting, as well as binge-watching TV shows and spending time outdoors playing games with her family.

Radwan AL-Nachawati –  Coordinator, Systems and Design

As Coordinator of Systems and Design, Radwan supports various programs’ development, implementation, and outreach. He is involved in marketing and communications strategies and program development. He graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management from Toronto Metropolitan University and has over a decade of experience in operations and community engagement.

Radwan’s goals include centering community members’ experiences. He is interested in intentionally engaging with the legacies of colonization and capitalism, separately and intersectionally. He is committed to contributing to truth and reconciliation processes and designing inclusive and accessible systems.

Radwan enjoys exploring through food, including an ongoing chewy journey with chocolate chip cookies. He loves spending time with loved ones, nature, and animals. He likes to ask questions and listen to others’ perspectives.

Dakar Charles –  Coordinator, Sports and Recreation

As Coordinator of the Sports and Recreation Department, Dakar leads the planning and delivery of athletic programming that supports both recreational and competitive athletes. He is responsible for coordinating seasonal engagement programs for local youth and managing facility rentals that enable safe and accessible programming across the Greater Hamilton Area.

Dakar brings over a decade of experience in athletics, personal training, and strength and conditioning. A former Varsity Athlete at the University of Toronto, where he studied Philosophy and Health Studies, he went on to play five years with Toronto FC. Dakar is also the co-founder of the BIPOC Varsity Association at the University of Toronto, the first organization of its kind at the institution, aimed at advancing equity and representation in athletics.

Outside of work, Dakar is a proud father of three, an avid soccer fan, and a music lover who brings energy, enthusiasm, and a deep sense of community to all that he does.

Johannah Abcede –  Coordinator, International

As Coordinator of International at Empowerment Squared, Johannah supports the organization’s global initiatives by coordinating key program activities, facilitating collaboration between local and international teams, and ensuring seamless operations for interns and partners.

Johannah graduated from McMaster University with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies and Economics. She previously worked as a Content Creator for the McMaster Student Success Centre and served as Marketing Lead for Firefly Spark, a Toronto-based social app. These experiences allowed her to develop skills in digital marketing, event planning, and youth engagement.

Outside of work, Johannah enjoys baking and spending quality time with friends and family, whether that’s exploring new activities or simply relaxing together.

Imogene Osoro –  Coordinator, Finance

As Coordinator of Finance, Imogene utilizes her knowledge of Canadian accounting principles to support the Controller and the Finance Department. She is responsible for organizing and maintaining accurate financial records, overseeing the upkeep of documentation for various departments, liaising with external vendors, ensuring that company policies and relevant regulations are adhered to, and performing other duties as required by the department.

Imogene is an Honours graduate of Mohawk College’s Accounting program (Spring 2025). Outside the office, she enjoys staying active through hiking and swimming, as well as trying new foods, video gaming, and crocheting in her free time.

Morola Solar  –  Coordinator, System Navigation

As Coordinator of System Navigation at Empowerment Squared, Morola Solar is responsible for supporting individuals and families as they connect with programs, resources, and opportunities to help them thrive. She takes a people-first approach, ensuring that community members feel supported, heard, and equipped to navigate new challenges

Morola holds an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a minor in Gender, Sexualities, and Families from McMaster University. She brings experience in human resources, program development, organizational compliance, and community engagement, with a strong focus on advancing diversity and inclusion. In recognition of her contributions, she was awarded Volunteer of the Year at a non-profit where she served with dedication. Outside of her professional role, Morola enjoys traveling, reading, attending concerts, exploring makeup artistry, and spending time with friends.

Ethar Moshin  –  Coordinator, Education

As Coordinator of Education, Ethar supports the design and delivery of youth programming that empowers newcomer and marginalized students through academic support, mentorship, and school system navigation. She brings a holistic, student-centered approach to her work, grounded in a background in Health Sciences with a specialization in Child Health.

Ethar began her journey with Empowerment Squared as an intern, where she demonstrated a strong commitment to advocacy through the creation of a children’s book focused on emotional well-being, and by contributing to a documentary that amplified the voices and lived experiences of children in underserved communities. She is passionate about human rights and equitable access to opportunity, and is dedicated to fostering inclusive spaces where youth can build confidence, belonging, and a sense of possibility.

Tukus Ama Harris –  Manager, Empowerment Squared Liberia

Tukus Ama Harris is an IATA Certified travel consultant, dynamic leader and entrepreneur and an advocate for youth empowerment and education in Liberia.

In 2016 she founded the Rosetta Steps Education Foundation in honor of her mother where she serves as Executive Director. The foundation operates the of Rosetta Steps Education Center, a junior high school dedicated to bridging the literacy gap in low income communities. The Foundation also curates learning programs most notable of all is its Read To Succeed phonics and literacy program for underserved youth. A Tony Elumelu fellow, Ama also leads as President of the Rotary Club of Monrovia and chairs the board of the YMCA Montserrado chapter, further supporting community development initiatives. As a board member of the Youth Entrepreneurship Network, she champions young entrepreneurs, leveraging her vast network and influence.

A devoted mother, Ama is deeply passionate about advancing educational opportunities and community empowerment.

Sele Max Fuah –  Senior Program Officer, Empowerment Squared Liberia

The Program Coordinator leading the support of interns and execution of activities in Liberia, Max is a 2024 Mandela Washington Fellow and a community alchemist with more than a decade of experience in social service organizations, youth empowerment, and grassroot development initiatives.

The years he has spent dedicated to increasing access to opportunities, resources and developing the skills of youth are evident in Max’s dedicated execution of program activities in Liberia.

In his free time, Max continues to drive social and economic and education reform, small business development, and promotion of physical and mental health through numerous volunteer initiatives.

Christopher B Jones –  Program Officer, Empowerment Squared Liberia

Christopher Jones is a tech innovator and software developer with over six years of experience leveraging technology to solve local challenges in Liberia. As a co-founder of Ezee Market, he spearheaded the platform’s growth across seven counties, enabling Liberians worldwide to support relatives back home and earning multiple local and regional awards. He is also one of the key team members of the Empowerment Squared Liberia team.

Christopher has also worked with leading organizations like Naymote Liberia, where he developed digital platforms for the Young Political Leadership School Africa, increasing engagement across the continent. Additionally, as a Program Manager at Bridge Technology, he played a key role in training over 500 women in computer literacy.

Passionate about impactful technology, Christopher combines his technical expertise with leadership experience to create innovative solutions. When he’s not developing tech, he’s mentoring future leaders and shaping Liberia’s digital landscape.

Joseph T Smith –  Program Officer, Empowerment Squared Liberia

TA key member of the Empowerment Squared Liberia team, Joseph Smith is a dynamic professional with expertise in database management, education, and monitoring and evaluation (M&E). With a Bachelor’s in Information Technology and over eight years of experience, Joseph is passionate about leveraging technology and education to drive community empowerment and development.

Joseph has held diverse roles, including as a computer science teacher, system administrator, and communications supervisor. At the Mary Lauren Browne School of Excellence, he managed the digital learning system and taught interactive computer science lessons. He also supported Liberia’s electoral process as a Data Entry Clerk for the National Election Commission, ensuring data integrity.

An active member of organizations like the Rotaract Club of Monrovia and the Young African Leaders Initiative, Joseph combines technical expertise with leadership and mentorship to create meaningful change. Outside work, he serves as Director of Media for Effort Baptist Church and enjoys collaborating on community-driven initiatives.