Meet the Team
We are a 100% volunteer-run grassroots non-profit organization. Our team of over 40 passionate and dedicated volunteers comprises six teams: Operations, Communications, Fundraising, Finance, Events and Education.
Each team is composed of a director, team lead, and volunteers. Read more about our Executives, Directors and Team Leads below:
Ilia Fernandez
Founder/CEO
Hi, my name is Ilia (pronounced Ee-li-ah), and I go by they/them/she/her. As the MHS Victoria enters its 7th year, I feel confident that we have found our footing in the community. As a grassroots nonprofit that’s managed to operate solely through volunteers, I’m amazed at the work we’ve done so far. That said, I know we have a long ways to go and I’m so excited to be working with this amazing group of humans to keep growing the MHS to better support those living in Greater Victoria.
Rimma Solyanova
Director of Operations | She/Her
Hi, I’m Rimma, I joined MHS last year, and I’m excited about all the amazing work being done by this passionate and dedicated team! My goal is to help ensure the organization runs smoothly, creating an environment where every team member feels valued and empowered - because each one truly is!
Jess Kengatharan
Director of Fundraising
Hi, my name is Jess, and I’m currently the Director of Fundraising at MHS. Aside from being passionate about mental health advocacy, accessibility, and breaking the stigma - I also love to read, go on hikes and explore different parts of the world! I think it’s crucial to spend time fostering your creativity and enabling innovation through your passions and I can’t wait to see MHS grow and flourish!!
Shawn Chand
Resources Team Lead
Hey there! I'm Shawn (He/Him/They) —a lover of architecture, technology, and advocate for youth mental health. Design and innovation run through my veins, as I strive to create inspiring spaces for the world. Supporting the well-being of our youth is my driving force, and I believe laughter is a powerful remedy. Brace yourself; I've got dad jokes to spare! With a blend of expertise, empathy, and humor, I'm here to make a positive impact. Let's build a world where creativity and mental health flourish together.
Emma Waldock
President
Hi, I’m Emma (she/her), and I’m the President of the MHS! I have been with MHS since December 2021 and have so enjoyed being a part of such a wonderful organization and working with a truly amazing team of gifted people. I deeply believe in the importance of mental health education for communities and individuals, and am so grateful to be able to work towards reaching more people and spaces this year!
Nancy Huo
Secretary
Hi I'm Nancy and I'm the secretary of the MHS! I've long been passionate about mental health and I love staying organized. I'm extremely grateful to be a part of such a wonderful organization and work with so many amazing people. Excited for more to come!
Heather Jay
Director of Communications
Hi, My name is Heather (she/they) and I’m the new Director of Communications. My team consists of the very talented social media team, the newsletter team and our amazing graphic designers. A ten-year communications professional, I’ve done everything from producing advocacy films to publishing many corporate newsletters to writing articles on mental health and other related issues.
Brooke MacLeod
Director of Resources
Hey I’m Brooke (she/her) and I’m the Director of Resources! I just finished off my bachelor’s degree in psychology and neuroscience and hoping to pursue a Master’s in Counselling Psychology. I’ve been a part of MHS since January 2022 and I’ve really enjoyed being part of an organization with such a meaningful and important cause! I’m looking forward to reaching more people and communities this year and continuing to spread mental health education with the amazing people that make up this organization!
Tereza Belanger
Vice President
Hi! My name is Tereza (she/her) and I’m the Vice President of the MHS! I’ve been with the team since Nov 2020 and am primarily responsible for volunteer recruitment & management. In my free time, I love travelling, reading, live music, cafe-hopping, & spending quality time with loved ones! Mental health advocacy & accessibility is so meaningful to me, and I’m beyond grateful to be a part of this wonderful organization. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for the MHS!! <3
Lindsay Tannahill
Director of Development
Hi, my name is Lindsay! I’m originally from a small town in Ontario, and I’ve been working in education for nearly 9 years. I trained as a teacher in New Zealand after completing my Bachelor of Humanities at Carleton University. I am elated to be taking on the role of Director of Mobile App Development for 2023. This year, the team will be preparing the MindMap App to be launched; bringing accessible mental health resources to as many people as possible.
Jas Bhela
Director of Education
Hi! My name is Jas and I recently joined MHS as the Director of Education. In my free time, I enjoy working out, prioritizing self care, and spending time with friends and family. Being in social services for over 10 years, I am elated to be a part of this organization!
Michaela Segreto
Peer Support Team Lead | Peer Support Caller
Hi all, I’m Michaela and I have been with the MHS for almost 3 years now! I am currently the Team Lead for the Peer Support team, where we have been working on expanding our team and adjusting our program to be more efficient. This organization has been an incredible learning experience, and I am incredibly grateful for all the people I have met and new things I have learned during my time here.