The People Behind the Purpose
At The Local Charity, we don’t just talk about transformation — we live it. Our team is made up of individuals who bring personal experience, professional insight, and unwavering compassion to the work we do. From lived realities of adversity to a shared belief in what’s possible, each member of our team is here because they’ve seen the impact of opportunity — and are committed to creating it for others.
Discover our mission driven approach
We break the cycle of poverty by equipping youth with the mental health support, essential life skills, and technology access they need to thrive.
We believe that every young person should have the resources, mentorship, and mindset to rewrite what’s possible.
Our work is rooted in lived experience. Many of us know firsthand what it means to face systemic challenges – and what it takes to overcome them. We bring that understanding into every program, every conversation, and every youth relationship.
Our work is powered by people who care deeply – and show up boldly.
Each member of The Local Charity brings their own story, perspective, and purpose to the mission. Many of us have lived through the very barriers we now work to dismantle – and we carry that experience forward with humility, compassion, and a fierce belief in what’s possible.
We are united by more than role titles – we’re united by shared values, a commitment to equity, and a vision for the next generation. Together, we work to break the cycle of poverty by helping youth build confidence, resilience, and the skills to lead their own future.
Why Our Team Makes the Difference
Our people are the heart of The Local Charity. Their passion, experience, and shared commitment to youth empowerment are what set us apart.
Our team members are here because they believe in the mission — many with lived experience and a shared commitment to breaking cycles and building opportunity.
We design and deliver programs that meet youth where they’re at - accessible, adaptive, and built with the realities of our communities in mind.
As a primarily volunteer-led organization, we operate with trust, collaboration, and clarity - ensuring that every role contributes meaningfully to lasting impact.
The People Behind the Mission
The Local Charity is more than an organization - it’s a movement powered by people with purpose. Our team brings lived experience, professional passion, and deep empathy to the work of breaking the cycle of poverty for marginalized youth. Each united by a belief that every young person deserves the tools, support, and mindset to shape their own future.
The Toronto Local Charity Team
Laney Lui
Founder & Executive Director
I had also experienced being a single mother, and the journey had been challenging, but it has given me perspective on what it takes to overcome rough patches in life (though now I am happily re-married). I hope to contribute and inspire the folks I cross paths with towards living their best lives.
My parents have both exemplified qualities that contributed to my charity work. My mother modelled benevolence, and I’ve learned to be kind and grateful from her (I also acquired her sense of humour ). As an illegal immigrant, my father persevered through adversity and built an empire; I got my curiosity, strength, and entrepreneurial spirit from him.
For me, charity can be so impactful. The effort put in goes a long way in helping to improve lives. It’s often easy, usually inconvenient, but always necessary.
Mandy MacPhee
Fractional CMO
For me, volunteering isn’t just about giving back—it’s about using my voice, my network, and my experience to build a future where no young person is left behind. I’m excited to join The Toronto Local Charity’s mission to break the cycle of poverty and help every youth realize their potential.
Kevin Nakawatase
Event Lead
Caitlin MacKenzie
Community Event Coordinator
Nadia Coppens
Operations & Marketing Coordinator
Andais Bains
Operations & Marketing Coordinator
Aishwarya Bhattbhatt
Web Designer
Kevin Deng
Content Writer & Communications
Rajvi Virani
Web Operations Coordinator
What truly drives me is the sense of connection and purpose that comes from making a difference, no matter how small. When I see the impact of my efforts—the smiles, the gratitude, and the tangible improvements in people’s lives—it reminds me that giving is not just about offering help; it’s about building a stronger, more compassionate community. It’s about using my abilities to uplift others, inspire growth, and make a lasting difference. I am grateful for every opportunity to give back because it brings meaning to my work and joy to my heart.
Jiselle Sison
Marketing Specialist
Priyanka Karki
Project Coordinator
Daiwik Shah
Video Editor
Joy Wang
Strategic Operations & Project Manager
Joy Wang
Strategic Operations & Project Manager
Odina Rennie
Community Development Manager
Success Accelerator Team
Barb Hall
Learning Experience Designer
Barb Hall
Learning Experience Designer
Susan Lee
Learning Experience Designer
Mellissa Last
Instructor
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