Ebony Laing-Asare
Connections Coordinator

Ebony Laing-Asare

Ebony’s academic journey includes achieving an Honours Bachelor’s degree in Drama in Education and Community, alongside a Bachelor of Education, and she is currently in the process of completing her Master of Education degree. Ebony‘s dedication revolves around empowering and guiding young people as they navigate the intricate systems and societal pressures they face. With firsthand...
Brittany Bernard
Connections Coordinator

Brittany Bernard

Brittany has always been passionate about supporting children and at-risk youth, and believes in creating equal opportunities and encouraging them to strive for success. A graduate of Centennial College’s Social Service Work program, she has worked in youth shelters and community outreach and engagement programs.    
Frankie Corrado
Connections Coordinator

Frankie Corrado

Frankie completed his Bachelor’s of Community Mental Health, Diploma in Child and Youth Care, and also Social Service Work all at Seneca King College. Using all of his schooling, it has opened different opportunities for him to work within vulnerable sectors with youth, adolescence and seniors with all diverse identities. Identifying with the LGBTQ+ community,...
Samantha Julien
Connections Coordinator

Samantha Julien

Samantha Julien has previous experience advocating and supporting young people in various settings, including mentoring young people with diverse abilities in Toronto. Sam holds a Bachelors degree in Children, Childhood and Youth Studies from York University, as well as a graduate certificate in Inclusive Resource Practice from Humber College. With a background rooted in the...
Abhi Ruparelia
Development Coordinator

Abhi Ruparelia

Abhi (he/him) joined StepStones in 2023 as a Development Coordinator. Originally from India, he has lived in the U.S., Scotland, and (now) Canada. He received his Bachelor’s Degree in Philosophy and Leadership Studies from the University of Richmond and a Master’s Degree in Philosophy from Simon Fraser University. He is passionate about the ethical side...
Pomaa Prempeh
Office Manager

Pomaa Prempeh

Pomaa (he/him/she/her) finds joy in community, solidarity, and collaboration across differences. Her education in the University of Ottawa’s Conflict Studies & Human Rights program and George Brown College’s Assaulted Women’s & Children’s Counselor/Advocate Program and portfolio ranging from front-line shelter work, executive administration, and human rights education supports Pomaa’s dedication to access and equity. He...
Mike Ryan
Program Development

Mike Ryan

Mike (he/him) joined StepStones to assist with fundraising and development. He has collaborated with child welfare organizations to produce adoption videos and conferences, and wants to help ensure that all children and youth find belonging and community. He also worked in the music industry in London (England) and in television in Toronto (Canada) before joining...
Catherine Daniel
Connection Coordinator

Catherine Daniel

Catherine has an educational background in Community and Justice Services and is currently completing her Human Resources Management degree. She started with StepStones in May 2022 as a Youth Connections Coordinator, while continuing to work in social services, which she’s been doing for the past four years. Catherine has a passion for working with youth...
Rahwa Eyasu
Connection Coordinator

Rahwa Eyasu

Rahwa is one of the Youth Connection Workers at Stepstones. She completed her degree in Human Rights and Equity Studies at York University and has worked in the non-profit sector for several years in a variety of roles. She’s passionate about supporting and encouraging youth to help them realize their full potential, and she focuses...
Richard Parker
Youth Amplifier

Richard Parker

Cornelius Richard Parker is a former youth in care who has faced and overcome a lot of obstacles throughout his life. Originally from Ottawa, he came to Toronto to play soccer and fell in love with the city. Gifted with the ability to play soccer at a high level, he travelled to eight countries and...