Ala’a Adib is a community organizer, youth advocate, and founder of Smile for Sache, an organization supporting young people and families impacted by violence and systemic barriers. Through programs rooted in sport, mentorship, and service, her work has mobilized thousands of youth and volunteers across North America.

Ala’a’s leadership focuses on creating spaces where young people can build confidence, develop leadership skills, and reconnect with purpose through community. Her work bridges grassroots organizing, youth development, and social impact, using education and service as tools for healing and opportunity.

Lorne is an active community leader with deep multigenerational roots in Simcoe-Grey.  Currently he and his wife, Susan, own and operate a successful promotional products and corporate apparel business in Collingwood.

Lorne is an active Rotarian and former President of the Rotary Club of South Georgian Bay. 

Prior to his return to Collingwood, Lorne was the Assistant Deputy Minister responsible for the projects of the Premier’s Council, a consultative body of leaders from all key sectors of Ontario society.  The Premier’s Council, initially established by William Davis, became well recognized during the tenure of the David Peterson Liberal Government and expanded further during the time of Premier Bob Rae.

Prior to his work in the Ontario Public Service, he was a senior official at Labour Canada in Ottawa where he led the Bureau of Labour Information

Before entering public service, Lorne was the Research and Education Director of the United Food and Commercial Workers Union and was responsible for negotiating major collective agreements in the food industry.

His career began as a Professor of Economics and Canadian Studies at Seneca College.  He continued teaching on an adjunct basis at Carleton and later at the University of Toronto where he developed a special charity-focused consulting program for graduating MBA students at the Rotman School of Management. 

Lorne has a B.A. in Political Science and Economics and an M.A. in Economics (Labour and Industrial Relations).  Both degrees were earned at the University of Toronto.

He has twice been named an honorary Paul Harris Fellow for his contributions to Rotary in Collingwood his initiative to develop an early literacy program that matches children under six with local seniors and again for his work with the Rotary International Student Exchange Program. 

He is an active parishioner of All Saints’ Anglican Church.  Also, he has been involved politically as the Liberal candidate in the 2019 federal election.

John Miringu is a passionate advocate for youth empowerment through his involvement with Elephant Thoughts. Having first connected with the organization as a participant in the Elephant Thoughts Culinary Education Program, he appreciates the value of hands-on learning and mentorship.That experience continues to shape his commitment to helping other young people access similar opportunities for growth.

Today, John contributes to the organization as a member of the Elephant Thoughts Youth Advisory Board and serves as a youth representative on the Board of Directors, where he brings forward the perspectives and ideas of the young people to help guide programs and initiatives.

Beyond his work at Elephant Thoughts, John is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in computer Security at York University, where he is developing his interest in cybersecurity while exploring how digital systems can help build stronger and more connected communities.

Info to come.

Sky Perley is a community leader from Neqotkuk (Tobique First Nation), New Brunswick, with a strong commitment to expanding opportunities for youth through education, culture, and community-based learning. He currently serves as Executive Director of the Wolastoq Education Initiative, where he works with schools, families, and community partners to develop programs that support literacy, numeracy, STEM learning, and land-based education.

Sky’s work focuses on building practical learning opportunities that connect young people to culture, community, and real-world skills. Through partnerships with governments, schools, and community organizations, he has helped lead initiatives that strengthen educational outcomes while supporting broader community wellbeing, including projects related to youth leadership and Indigenous food sovereignty.

He also serves as Chair of the Board for Tobique Child and Family Services Agency, where he provides governance leadership during a period of transition toward community-led services. In addition, Sky has long been involved in youth development through sport and recreation. He is a member of the New Brunswick Aboriginal Sports Hall of Fame and serves as Wolastoqey Chairman of Aboriginal Sport and Recreation New Brunswick.

Sky is currently completing the Directors Education Program (ICD.D) through the Institute of Corporate Directors and is committed to supporting organizations that empower youth through innovative and experiential education.

Alphonsine Alisha Vita is an Early Childhood Assistant dedicated to helping children from all backgrounds build a strong foundation for lifelong success.

Her connection to Elephant Thoughts began as a participant in their Culinary Program, an experience that proved to her how much a supportive mentor and real-world skills can change a young person’s trajectory.

With a certificate in Economics and Management Sciences from the University of South Africa, Alisha brings a unique perspective on sustainable development and community-focused growth to the board.

As an aspiring communications specialist, she is passionate about helping organizations tell impactful stories, engage their communities, and expand access to programs that empower the next generation of “changemakers”.