Our Team

Srimanta is a globally recognized expert in research and project management with over 25 years of experience driving impactful initiatives across Canada, Asia, and Africa. He has worked with esteemed organizations like Ontario Public Health, and the United Nations Migration Agency (IOM Sudan).

As CEO of the Social Planning Council of Peel, Srimanta leads innovative community-driven projects that foster collaboration and growth. He is also an adjunct professor at York University, holds a partial load faculty position at Sheridan College, and a part-time faculty position at Algoma University. Srimanta teaches courses on nonprofit management, research methods, grant writing, evaluation, social work, migration and settlement, and policy-related courses, shaping the next generation of leaders. Over the past 10 years, he has successfully completed over 200 community research projects, inspiring meaningful change through his thought leadership.

Srimanta holds a doctoral degree and multiple master's degrees in Arts, Project Management from Schulich School of Business, Law in Population Science, Demography, and Statistics. His notable awards and fellowships include the World Health Organization Fellowship at Beijing University, as well as numerous awards for academic excellence recognizing his contributions to research and education. He has also authored a book on comparative analysis of gender inequality in India and China and served as past president of the Rotary Club Mississauga-Airport, demonstrating his commitment to community service and leadership.

Kiran Mata is an accomplished program leader with expertise in community development, strategic program management, and stakeholder engagement. With an educational background in International Business from Germany and a Social Service Worker diploma completed in Canada, she brings a distinctive combination of strategic leadership, cross-cultural understanding, and community-based knowledge to the development of responsive and sustainable social programs.

As Program Manager at the Social Planning Council of Peel, Kiran leads funded initiatives that advance youth engagement, volunteerism, equity, social inclusion, and community well-being. She oversees program planning and implementation, partnership development, community outreach, participant engagement, and funder reporting, ensuring that projects remain responsive to community needs and aligned with their intended objectives and outcomes.

Kiran works collaboratively with community organizations, educational institutions, service providers, youth, families, and other stakeholders to strengthen service coordination and expand access to meaningful opportunities. She is committed to developing inclusive, evidence-informed programs that amplify diverse voices, address barriers to participation, and build leadership and capacity within communities.

Through strategic planning, accountable program management, and a strong dedication to community service, Kiran contributes to building stronger, more connected, and resilient communities throughout Peel Region and beyond.

Taofikat holds a Master’s degree in Public Policy and is a research and policy professional committed to advancing evidence based solutions to complex social issues, including housing, health, and gender equality. She is passionate about creating positive change through research, community engagement, women and youth empowerment.

As a Youth Coordinator, Taofikat supports the development and delivery of programs that promote skill building, self confidence, leadership, and a strong sense of belonging among young people. She works closely with youth and their families to foster inclusive communication, meaningful participation, and a safe, supportive environment where young people can thrive.

She brings years of experience in social research, program evaluation, grant writing, and community engagement, with a strong foundation in both qualitative and quantitative research methods. Passionate about equity, diversity, inclusion, and mental wellness, Taofikat is dedicated to strengthening communities and creating lasting impact through both direct service and informed public policy.

Aidan Fogel-Smith is a Marketing Specialist with diplomas in Public Relations and Social Service Work.

She has experience developing grant applications, writing project proposals and creating marketing materials for community-focused initiatives. She also leads mentorship sessions that empower youth to build confidence, skills, and meaningful connections.

Passionate about workers’ rights, equality and environmental sustainability, she is committed to creating a positive social impact through her work and community involvement.

Ayesha is a third-year Computer Science student at Western University with a background in digital art, organization, and journalism, as well as several years of experience in coding and numerical analysis.

She also brings six years of teaching experience, which has shaped her ability to communicate clearly and support others in learning complex concepts.

Ayesha is dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the quality of life for marginalized and disadvantaged groups, and she believes that real change starts with educating our community.

Aarush Sutar is a second year engineering student at Mcmaster University with a strong interest in business, technology, and community involvement. He has experience in web design, project coordination, and event organization, supporting teams through creative problem-solving, planning, and day-to-day operations.

In addition to their technical work, Aarush has experience mentoring and collaborating with others through school clubs and volunteer initiatives, helping build confidence, teamwork, and leadership skills.

He excels in team-oriented environments and are motivated to contribute to efficient, innovative projects while continuing to grow their expertise in business and technology.

Mehar Giri is a web designer at the Social Planning Council of Peel (SPCP). He holds an undergraduate degree in aerospace engineering from Carleton University.

He believes in SPCP’s vision of improving the quality of life for everyone across Brampton, Mississauga, Caledon, and Ontario. He looks forward to taking on new challenges and supporting SPCP in any way possible.

Saifullah Khalid is a third-year Accounting student at the University of Toronto with a strong focus on financial management and organizational planning. They bring hands-on experience in project coordination and financial analysis, supporting teams with budgeting, reporting, and day-to-day operations.

In addition to their accounting work, Saifullah Khalid has a background in coaching and teaching, where they’ve helped students build confidence and achieve academic goals—an experience that has refined their collaborative approach and clear communication with both team members and clients.

They thrive in team-oriented environments and are driven to contribute to efficient, well-run operations while actively growing their expertise in accounting.

Serena graduated from the Honours Bachelor of Social and Community Development program at Sheridan College. She also holds a diploma in Addictions and Mental Health from Centennial College.

With an anti-oppressive and trauma-informed approach, Serena brings experience working with diverse communities, with a particular focus on youth. She is passionate about supporting and empowering young people through her role as a volleyball coach.

In addition to her community work, Serena applies her background in marketing to amplify values such as freedom, diversity, equality, and social justice through storytelling and social media engagement.

Zoha Zaheer is a media and communications graduate from the University of Guelph-Humber with over eight years of experience in digital marketing, content creation, and community engagement.

She has worked with nonprofits, healthcare organizations, and media teams to develop social media strategies, create engaging visual content, and support impactful campaigns.

Skilled in Adobe Creative Suite and Canva, Zoha brings creativity, strong attention to detail, and a passion for using storytelling to elevate brands and advance meaningful causes.

Karrol is a Social Service Worker, completing her Bachelor of Social and Community Development at Sheridan College. Karrol has a strong community outreach background and is currently working with various non-profit organizations.

She is deeply committed to addressing social justice issues affecting vulnerable and marginalized communities and advocates to support individuals facing systemic barriers, such as homelessness, poverty, and discrimination.

Karrol provides direct support services, case management, and facilitating educational workshops to empower community members.

Rana Kak is a social service worker with the Social Planning Council of Peel. She holds a Social Service Worker diploma from Sheridan College and is completing her Bachelor of Social and Community Development at Sheridan College. She worked as an outreach coordinator with My Women Support Community.

Rana is dedicated to advocating for marginalized communities and has a strong background in community outreach, program development, and support services.

Her work focuses on empowering individuals and fostering community engagement through various initiatives and projects. With a passion for social justice.

Esha is a Social Researcher with a background in sociology, research, and policy. She holds an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a minor in Human Resources Management from York University.

She has experience in the non-profit sector, contributing to research and community-based initiatives while supporting team coordination and day-to-day organizational work.

She applies research to better understand social issues and support informed decision-making. In her free time, she enjoys travelling and exploring new places.

Latifah is a social researcher and Social Service Worker, currently completing her Honours Bachelor of Social and Community Development at Sheridan College. Her work focuses on community-based research, with a strong emphasis on newcomer settlement, informal support systems, and equitable access to services.

She brings expertise in qualitative and quantitative research methods and is passionate about using research to inform more inclusive and responsive community services. With a professional background in supporting individuals with developmental disabilities and mental health needs, she integrates frontline experience into her research to better understand complex social issues.

She is committed to contributing to evidence-based solutions that strengthen community systems and amplify diverse voices.

Natalia Poyser is a first-year pre-law student at the University of Guelph, maintaining a 4.0 GPA. She is passionate about social justice, equity, and community development, with volunteer experience supporting diverse populations through organizations such as Hospice Mississauga and Best Buddies.

Her background in customer service has strengthened her communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills in fast-paced environments.

Natalia is fluent in French and aspires to pursue a career in law focused on advocacy and social equity. She enjoys yoga and reading in her free time.

Maya holds an Honours Bachelor of Social and Community Development and a diploma in Social Service Work from Sheridan College. She brings over seven years of community service experience, including 600+ hours of professional placement supporting individuals in both community and structured settings.

Her expertise spans client support, service coordination, documentation, data organization, and community outreach. Maya is passionate about advancing equity, inclusion, and accessible services for diverse populations.

She is committed to strengthening community well-being through ethical practice, strong communication, and meaningful engagement that supports long-term social impact.

Jodi-Anne Bennett is a Social Service Worker graduate from Sheridan College, currently continuing her studies in the Honours Bachelor of Social and Community Development program.

As a Canada Summer Jobs (CSJ) Social Researcher with the Social Planning Council of Peel, she contributes to program evaluation, research, and grant writing initiatives that support evidence-informed community planning.

She is passionate about using research and program development to strengthen the non-profit sector and advance equitable community outcomes. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, baking, and watching documentaries.

Sheree-Ann currently works as a Research Associate with the Social Planning Council of Peel. She is completing her 3rd year in the Bachelor of Social and Community Development Honours Program. Additionally, she holds a Social Service Worker Diploma from Sheridan College.

With over 13 years of experience in Human Resource Administration, Sheree-Ann brings a wealth of knowledge and practical skills to her work. Her background has equipped her to manage various administrative tasks effectively and support both staff and organizational objectives.

Sheree-Ann is deeply passionate about working with women and children, dedicating her efforts to improving their lives and providing them with the support they need to thrive.

Sandra Gore is a highly experienced professional with a background spanning over 15 years in the healthcare sector and senior population community.

She is proficient in English and holds an Addictions and Community Service Worker, High Honors (CDI College), a Social Service Worker Diploma, Honors (Sheridan College), and a Licensed Practical Nursing degree (Knox Community College).

Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Social and Community Development Work at Sheridan College, Sandra also serves as an intern Research Associate at the Social Planning Council of Peel. In this capacity, she is actively involved in quantitative and qualitative research, focusing specifically on the senior population.

Aditi Dash is a marketing specialist at SPC Peel and a second-year student at the Schulich School of Business at York University. Her choice to work with SPC Peel is driven by her passion for community involvement and her desire to create real change.

Fluent in English, French, Hindi, and Odia, she possesses a diverse communication skill set. Beyond her professional and academic pursuits, she enjoys reading, dance, and art.

With a commitment to excellence and collaboration, she aims to make a meaningful impact both professionally and within her community.

Harini Thirunavukkarasu Premalatha is a website designer at the Social Planning Council of Peel. She is currently studying as a computer engineering student at York University. She is fluent in English and Tamil.

She is really passionate about helping and being part of her community. She enjoys collaborating in teams and working with others. She likes to cook and bake in her free time.

Zareen Subha is a Social Community Worker at the Council. She holds a diploma in Social Work from Sheridan College and will begin her Bachelor's in Social Work at Toronto Metropolitan University this September.

A dedicated lifelong learner, she thrives in team environments. She has extensive experience supporting diverse populations, including older adults and individuals with exceptional abilities.

In addition to her professional skills, she enjoys reading and journaling and is fluent in Bengali and English.

Sarah Victor has recently completed her Social Service Worker program diploma and is excited to continue her education by pursuing an Honours Bachelor in Social and Community Development. She is deeply passionate about collaborating with others to create a better future, holding a strong commitment to social justice and community improvement.

She believes in the power of teamwork and collective effort to address societal challenges and enhance the well-being of individuals and communities. She aims to leverage her skills and knowledge to make a meaningful impact and contribute to positive change.

Mathew Jacob recently completed his third year in the Public Health program at Toronto Metropolitan University. He is currently a Community and Social Service Worker at the Social Planning Council of Peel.

His experiences have taught him that community development is crucial for enhancing quality of life and can only be achieved through collective effort. Ambitious and goal-oriented, he consistently strives to improve the community for future generations.

Joshua is a Community and Social Services Worker currently in his fourth year of the Social Work program at Toronto Metropolitan University. Passionate about clinical social work, he focuses on supporting individuals with mental health and addiction challenges and advocating for marginalized groups.

His experience includes volunteering for Transitions to Communities, a project by the Mood Disorders Society of Canada, assisting veterans and former first responders in transitioning to civilian life. He also completed a field placement at Our Place Peel’s Brampton Youth Shelter, supporting homeless youth.

In his free time, he enjoys training in martial arts, biking, and nature walks.

Jessica is a Community and Social Service Worker at the Social Planning Council of Peel. She is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Social Work at York University.

Passionate about community involvement and outreach projects, she enjoys the opportunity to collaborate with like-minded individuals. Additionally, she is fluent in Cantonese and English.

Eman Hassan is a Community and Social Service Worker with a degree from Sheridan College. Passionate about fostering community well-being, she strives to make a positive impact through compassionate assistance and collaborative efforts.

She advocates for the needs of individuals and families, empowering them to thrive within their communities. Additionally, she is fluent in Urdu, Hindi, and English.

Danish Siddiqui has completed a Social Service Worker Diploma at Sheridan College, with graduation anticipated in June. A fast-paced and dedicated worker, he was motivated to join this 8-week program to assist diverse populations, including youth, newcomers, and seniors.

Over the next 8 weeks, he aims to enhance his skills in community service by conducting qualitative and quantitative research and developing programs that meet community needs and preferences.

Akansha is a Community and Social Services Worker at the Social Planning Council of Peel. She holds a Social Service Worker diploma and will soon pursue a Bachelor's in Social and Community Development at Sheridan College.

With over 7 years of experience in child and youth services, she is passionate about youth development and committed to bringing positive change to her community. Additionally, she is fluent in Hindi, Gujarati, and English.

Akshat Hasija is an alumnus of the Brock University Criminology program. He is passionate about community engagement and social justice, with experience in customer service.

He has volunteered for such events like Special Needs Movie Night and Family Faith Night, among others and he enjoys working with teams to create inclusive and positive environments. He is proud to contribute to the important work being done at the Social Planning Council of Peel.