Distinguished Alumni

Sybil Wa is an associate at Diamond Schmitt Architects, where she has contributed to a broad portfolio of civic and institutional projects including the New Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg, Russia. Her advocacy on design and urban issues has been highlighted by the National Post, among others, and her series of op-ed pieces have been published by the Toronto Star. As a member of the Toronto Community Housing Design Review Panel and the Advisory Committee for the Ryerson City Building Institute, Sybils priority continues to be working to build thriving urban communities.

"Extracurricular activities like sports and Student Council were a major part of my experience at Holy Name of Mary Secondary School. My peers had diverse interests and strengths and I enjoyed learning from them as much as I enjoyed learning from my teachers, who made subjects like English, Physics, Music, Calculus and Religion lifelong curiosities."

Stephanie Holden grew up in the commercial printing industry with a family-run business. She became passionate about fine art at an early age. While attending Holy Name of Mary Secondary School, Stephanie developed her skills in graphic design through Visual Arts, Yearbook Club and various art contests. Graduating from the Graphic Design program at Sheridan College, she quickly moved into the design industry, gaining experience in print design, clothing graphics, photo shoot direction and product development. Stephanie is currently the Creative Director at Roots Canada.

"Holy Name of Mary provided a safe and comfortable environment for me to grow academically and socially. While learning the fundamentals of design in Visual Arts class, I was able to gain leadership skills through my role as editor of the yearbook and an understanding of teamwork through my involvement with several of the sports teams. Holy Name of Mary helped shape the person I am today, and I will forever be grateful for the amazing path it helped guide me toward."

Born in Trinidad & Tobago, Mishael Morgan immigrated to Canada with her family when she was five. She caught the acting bug during her elementary school's production of "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" when she was 10. She honed her acting skills throughout her years at St. Edmund School and St. Paul Secondary School. Mishael went on to graduate from York University with a degree in political science and was accepted into law school. Two weeks before she was due to start classes, she landed her first professional acting role on a Canadian television series. Mishael went on to appear in a few television series and feature films, before she landed the role of a lifetime as Hilary on "The Young and the Restless" in 2013.

Despite having no formal acting lessons Morgan's teachers recall her abundance of talent and perseverance, noting she came alive in front of an audience. "I enjoy being alone on stage where I'm allowed to shine.  I feel the energy," said Mishael. For Morgan, a serious and accomplished student, acting was just a hobby at first. Until 2004 that is, when she was severely injured in a car accident. "I spent five days in hospital and had lots of time to think," she said. "I realized I'd gotten a second lease on life. It was then that I decided to take a risk and pursue acting professionally. I figured I would regret it if I didn’t give it a try."

An Ontario Catholic School Graduate is expected to be an… effective communicator.

Alyssah Ali graduated from St. Aloysius Gonzaga Secondary School in 2007. She was accepted into a several universities, but decided to pursue modeling full-time. Alyssa is now one of the front runners in her field. She lives in New York and models in events around the globe.  She has been featured on the cover of Vogue (India) and Elle (Sweden). For the past two years Alyssah has been the official face of Chanel.

"Today, I often travel to parts of Europe for work. When I walk through countries like Portugal and Italy, I am consistently reminded of the deep Roman Catholic roots in this part of the world. Gonzaga provided me with a strong foundation in and understanding of the Roman Catholic faith. For me, this comes alive when I embrace beauty through the art, music and culture of this region – so richly infused by its Roman Catholic beginnings. I feel privileged to work so closely with many people from different parts of the world. I truly believe the lessons I learned at Gonzaga around global communities and a celebration of difference has shaped me into a more compassionate and open individual. I consider it a blessing to learn and be challenged by a diversity of people – each one contributing something unique to my life journey."

Mike Wise is a TV anchor and radio newscaster with CBC News.  He can be seen weeknights on CBC News Toronto. Mike’s current position is the latest in a long and rewarding career with Canada’s public broadcaster. He started that journey when he was 17 at Cardinal Leger Secondary School in Brampton. When he enrolled in its Co-op Education program, he landed a placement in CBC’s local newsroom (where he helped the team cover a federal election night, even though he wasn’t old enough to vote). Mike hasn’t looked back since, turning that Co-op placement into a part-time job that helped put him through university. Mike holds an honours degree in Political Studies from Queen’s University.

"I owe my career, and much of the experiences that formed me as an adult, to my experience in Dufferin-Peel.  Attending Cardinal Leger Secondary School, I was given a valuable exposure to the world outside my door. My teachers exposed me to issues of social justice resonating around the world and throughout my community. I explored my faith, and learned the value of belonging to a Christian community. I also learned how to perform, whether it was acting on stage, singing with the choir, or developing a love of music with the school band.  Cardinal Leger also gave me my first anchoring experience: reading the morning announcements on the school’s PA system."

Renato Discenza graduated from St. Martin Secondary School and went on to become a professional engineer. Renato is currently President and CEO of Invest Toronto, a company that is the ambassador to the international business community marketing and selling Toronto as a great international location for business.  Renato had a distinguished career in both the private and public sectors as a senior executive at Bell Canada, AT&T Canada and Infrastructure Ontario. Renato is a past recipient of the prestigious 40 Under 40™ Award.

"The experience of having studied religion and faith has definitely been an asset in my career.  The education around religion went well beyond the understanding of my own Catholic faith, but also explored how people from around the world and through the ages have thought about religion, spirituality, morals and faith.  The sensitivity gained by having a strong sense of one's personal religion and an appreciation about other people’s practices and thinking about spiritual, moral and religious frameworks allows me to work with people from around the world.  A Catholic education is a pathway to thinking about yourself, your place in the world and your relationship to all the citizens of the world and this planet."

An Ontario Catholic School Graduate is expected to be a… discerning believer.

A graduate of Father Michael Goetz Secondary School, Andrew Nicholson was drafted in the first round of the 2012 NBA draft by the Orlando Magic. Following an outstanding athletic and academic career at Goetz, Andrew attended St. Bonaventure University in New York where he earned All-America and All Conference honours and majored in Physics. During his career at St. Bonaventure, Andrew ranked second in program history in points (2,103), field-goal percentage (57.5) and blocked shots (244), while sitting fourth in total rebounds (887) in 123 games. He ranks as the only player in the history of the league to earn four straight Player of the Week awards.

"I can say without reservation that the success I achieved as a university Physics graduate and as an NBA basketball player has been directly related to the great teachers, coaches and well-rounded education I received as a Dufferin-Peel student.  For me, the balance of academics and athletics, along with the ever present faith aspect of my Catholic school, kept me grounded and focused on pursuing and achieving my dreams."

Marc Diab moved to Canada from Lebanon when he was 14 years old. He was very involved in his church and youth projects. Following high school, Marc joined the Canadian Forces and served in Afghanistan. While on leave, he made it a priority to return to Mississauga and take part in youth camps inspiring participants, becoming a role model and a mentor to them. Marc died on March, 8, 2009 after his vehicle hit an improvised explosive device (IED) in Kandahar. He was just 22 years old.

"Attending high school in the Dufferin-Peel Catholic system greatly influenced Marc’s career with the Canadian Forces and shaped the man he became. He was always very proud to be Catholic and he was happy that in Dufferin-Peel he was able to freely express and learn about our faith. He was inspired by his teachers at St. Aloysius Gonzaga and St. Joseph Secondary Schools to always help others and to try and make a difference in the world, which is the main reason he decided to join the military. Throughout Marc’s military career, and especially during his deployment to Afghanistan, faith played a tremendous role in keeping him grounded and positive." Jihan Filah, Mother

An Ontario Catholic School Graduate is expected to be a… responsible citizen.

Melissa Grelo is a very familiar face on Canadian television, as news anchor and co-host of the popular morning show CP24 BREAKFAST and co-host of THE SOCIAL. Melissa also reports regularly from some of the biggest events of the year, including the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic Games, the Toronto International Film Festival, and the prestigious Academy Awards. She has also co-hosted the Santa Claus Parade on CTV since 2010. Melissa speaks at many fundraising events, specifically with the GTA’s youth, whom she encourages to become involved in charitable work and contribute to their communities.

"'We are always stronger together." That’s one of the most important lessons that I learned attending Robert F. Hall Catholic Secondary School in Caledon. Working in a stressful newsroom or hosting various shows is the ultimate test of being a team player. You can only accomplish so much on your own, but as a team, you can move mountains and make a real impact in the lives of others. When we help one another, we all succeed."

An Ontario Catholic School Graduate is expected to be a… collaborative contributor.

A graduate of St. Christopher School, Adrian Anantawan has played the violin since the age of nine. Since graduating from Yale University, he has established himself as a rising star in classical music. Adrian has performed extensively throughout the world. His proudest moments have included performances for the late Christopher Reeve, His Holiness Pope John Paul II and the Dalai Lama. Adrian was a feature performer at the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics Opening Ceremonies. He is a Juno nominee, a CBC Galaxie Award winner and an inductee into the Terry Fox Hall of Fame. Adrian is a key proponent of the disabled arts, as he was born without a right hand. He is a national spokesperson for the War Amps of Canada, and the Holland Bloorview Kids Rehab Centre.

"Attending St. Christopher School provided the foundation of my education, and provided me with experiences that I treasure to this day. One of the reasons I am in education today is because I wanted to emulate the work of all my great teachers, all of whom encouraged me to strive for excellence at all times, regardless of any roadblocks along the way. I consider myself lucky to be an alumnus of Dufferin-Peel schools, and hope that every student in this nation receives a quality education as I did."

Jessica Louzado graduated from St. Francis Xavier Secondary School in 2000. After completing her B.A. in Sociology at the University of Toronto, Jessica began her career with the Royal Bank of Canada. Her strong work ethic and passion to succeed awarded Jessica the President’s Award opening doors within the bank and allowing her to explore different roles and careers. In 2009, Jessica was appointed Branch Manager. Over her tenure as Branch Manager, she became highly involved in the communities she works in. She joined the Board of Directors in managing festivals around the Niagara Region, working alongside Ontario farmers, assisting them in spreading the “Buy Local” message to the people of Ontario. In addition, Jessica was responsible for forming an employee resource group within her bank that focused on helping women network.

"Attending a Catholic School gave me the opportunity to freely accept and learn my faith. Grade 11 World Religions further allowed me to explore and understand different faiths. Lessons learned within this class help me today as I navigate through our world, which is so rich in diversity. As any high school student grows, there will always be a moment in time, where you need support or a mentor to listen, understand and guide. Apart from my family, a huge impact in my formidable learning years was my school Chaplain. Through him, the administration and the many teachers I had over my years at St. Hilary and St. Francis Xavier, I learned by example how to grow within my faith."

Rob Gentile began working in kitchens at the early age of 13 and in twenty years, he has cooked in some of Canada’s most acclaimed restaurants, including North 44, Bymark and One. His inclination to learn, create and evolve within a competitive industry, inspires him to continually cultivate unique ideas and concepts.  Currently, as Executive Chef and partner of Buca, Bar Buca and King Street Food Company’s upcoming project, Buca Yorkville, Chef Gentile plays a principle role in the company’s culinary development, training and education. Since his start, Rob has been featured in numerous publications and television productions and is involved in the education of young chefs as member of the board for Toronto’s George Brown Culinary School.

"Working in kitchens is high pressure and it can be challenging to become a chef in such a competitive industry. At a young age, my Dufferin-Peel Catholic education gave me the knowledge and foundation I needed to flourish in my field.  My experience at Catholic school instilled leadership, discipline and drive; skills that are essential in my profession and have gotten me to where I am today.  Now, being in charge of my own kitchen, I am determined to pass on these values to my team by providing them with the same guidance I once received.  As a Chef, I never stop learning and I am grateful for that."

An Ontario Catholic School Graduate is expected to be a… self-directed, responsible, life-long learner.

Corporal Kelly Scanlon currently serves in the Canadian Armed Forces as a full-time army reservist. At the age of 16, while attending Our Lady of Mount Carmel Secondary School she joined the Canadian Army Reserves. She completed her basic training as part of the school’s Co-op Education program and has been with the military ever since. Scanlan was sworn into the army in 2007 as part of the Toronto Scottish Regiment as an infantry soldier. With the military, she has had the opportunity to travel all over the world and has worked with many different countries and organizations. In 2010, at the age of 19, she was deployed to Kandahar Afghanistan, where she served a seven month tour of duty. Corporal Scanlon is currently working for the Toronto Scottish Regiment 75th Company out of the Lieutenant-Colonel Samuel Beckett Armoury in Mississauga.  She often returns to her old schools to speak as an experienced Veteran.

"Joining the Canadian Army at such a young age came with many different challenges. It was physically, mentally and emotionally challenging, but throughout it all the Our Lady of Mount Carmel staff supported me. At times my military and school schedules conflicted, but many of my teachers were willing to work with me. They accommodated my military training, while helping to ensure I had time to complete my academic goals as well. Not only did they help me academically, but many of my teachers helped to inspire me as well. My Law, History and Politics teachers were extremely passionate about their subjects. It was often through their passion that I learned about different injustices around the globe and their impact on the world. This knowledge further influenced me to choose a career in which I could help others, and effect change."

Tina Pereira was born in Trinidad. She attended St. Teresa of Avila School in Mississauga and trained at Canada’s National Ballet School. She joined The National Ballet of Canada in 2001 and became a First Soloist in 2009. Recently, Ms. Pereira danced in the Canadian premiere of Nijinsky by John Neumeier. In 2007, Ms. Pereira won the International Competition for the Erik Bruhn Prize and was invited to perform Prokofiev Pas de Deux at the New York debut of Morphoses.

"My journey to becoming a professional ballerina began in elementary school. I was always supported by my teachers and principals, who made it easy for me to excel academically, when I was taken away with my pursuits in dance . I have distinct memories of Grade 2 and how inspired I was to learn from Mrs. Callender, who remains my favourite teacher to this day. The Dufferin-Peel Catholic school system provided me with a platform to excel in my career and some of my most cherished memories as a child."

An Ontario Catholic School Graduate is expected to be a… caring family member.

Professor Susan Tighe is a Canada Research Chair in Pavement and Infrastructure Management, Professor in Sustainable Pavement Engineering, Founding Principal and Director of the Centre for Pavement and Transportation Technology (CPATT), and a Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Waterloo. Professor Tighe is an author of over 400 technical publications and is involved in a number of research projects both nationally and internationally. She was named one of Canada’s Top 40 Under 40 for her leadership and vision with respect to the Canadian Transportation Community.  Susan attended Georges Vanier School and graduated from Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School.

"I am very proud to be an alumnae of the Dufferin-Peel Catholic school system.  I attended both an elementary school and high school in the system.  I received an excellent education that was high quality, well-rounded and important for providing a basis for my life.  We were always encouraged to think about our role as global citizens of the world and to develop our faith. Faith has helped me at many points in my life and I am very pleased to say that my children now attend a Catholic school.  My Catholic education provided an excellent foundation both professionally and personally and I am grateful that my parents sent me to a Catholic school."

A graduate of St. Thomas Aquinas Secondary School, Sean Monahan was drafted to the Ontario Hockey League in 2010, where he played for the Ottawa 67s for three years. In his final OHL year, he was named team captain. In June 2013, Sean was drafted sixth overall by the National Hockey Leagues Calgary Flames.

"I was fortunate to have excellent teachers and coaches throughout my experience in Dufferin-Peel. My teachers were very supportive with academics, as well as athletics. Having these opportunities helped me develop a good work ethic, leadership skills, and time management skills in and out of the classroom. My teachers and coaches guided me throughout my years, assisting me to get to where I am today."

An Ontario Catholic School Graduate is expected to be a… collaborative contributor.

From a young age, Rachel Schoutsen knew she belonged in front of the camera. Rachel began her career by volunteering as a weather and field reporter at Rogers TV. From there, she became a traffic presenter and gridlock specialist for Beat the Traffic. Today, Rachel is a National broadcaster with The Weather Network and with a recent content sharing agreement, Rachel also provides weather updates on CBC's News Network.

"My career as a broadcaster started at Father Michael Goetz Secondary School. Still today, fellow classmates and teachers can recall me in Grade 9 telling the class that I would one day be a weather presenter! The Theatre program at Goetz helped me gain confidence and taught me that standing in front of an audience was the right place for me. My teachers were always very encouraging when it came to career choices. My first choice will always be Catholic education."

An Ontario Catholic School Graduate is expected to be a… self-directed, responsible, life-long learner.

In 2010, Anthony Gale was the youngest player selected for the National Sledge Hockey Team. Following eight years with the Cruisers Sports for the Physically Disabled Junior and Intermediate Squads and earning several Most Valuable Player Awards, Anthony made his 2014 Paralympic Winter Games debut in Sochi, helping Canada to capture the bronze medal after finishing second in team scoring. In addition to his bronze medal, Gale helped Canada capture the gold medal at the 2013 IPC World Championships.

"Attending Lester B. Pearson Catholic Elementary School and St. Thomas Aquinas Secondary School played a crucial part in getting me to where I am today. While I was playing sledge hockey for Team Canada, my teachers really encouraged me to keep going. I would not have been able to juggle hockey and school without their help. I am proud to have been a part of the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board."

An Ontario Catholic School Graduate is expected to be a… caring family member.

Living by the rhythm of words, power and sound, Matthew Jones, aka Testament, uses speech to reach deep into the recesses of the mind, illuminating in people the infinite possibilities within. Being a disciplined wordsmith, Testament has been writing poetry and stories since the age of seven. At 14, he fell in love with Hip-hop music, lyricism and rhyme construction, leading him to releasing three albums to date. His music, art and determination have taken Testament all over the globe in pursuit of spreading the message of peace, love and unity.

"My time as a student in Dufferin-Peel Catholic schools was instrumental in steering my career path towards working with youth. The values that were instilled into me have laid the foundation of love, truth and respect that help me to thrive today as an artist and educator. This faith-based approach taught me to value my God given talents and use them to inspire and motivate others."

An Ontario Catholic School Graduate is expected to be an… effective communicator.

Matthew Stajan is a Canadian professional ice hockey centre currently playing for the Calgary Flames of the National Hockey League. He was a second round selection, 57th overall, of the Toronto Maple Leafs at the 2002 NHL Entry Draft. Stajan made his NHL debut in 2004 and was a member of the Maple Leafs until he was traded to Calgary in 2010. Internationally, Stajan was a member of the Canadian national junior team that won a silver medal at the 2003 World Junior Hockey Championships.

"The teachers and coaches I had throughout my years in Dufferin-Peel have been instrumental in helping me learn, grow and develop into the person I am today. I was fortunate to have such great teachers who pushed me to strive for excellence and work hard every day, which ultimately helped me to develop a solid work ethic, strong mind, and good leadership skills. All of these traits have helped me in my professional career as a NHL player."

An Ontario Catholic School Graduate is expected to be a… collaborative contributor.

With a mission to evangelize through theatre, Elisa Lollino writes and performs her own one-woman plays that bring the scriptures to  life in a unique and thought provoking way. Elisa has written three plays so far: Fly With Me, He Thirsts for You, and The Prodigal Daughter. She has performed her plays across Ontario in high schools, churches, for Catholic Women’s League groups, priests’ retreats, confirmation preparation classes, art festivals and more.

"I have always had a passion for the stage. In high school I loved performing for teachers and friends in the hallways and being on stage in the productions hosted by the school. At my graduation ceremony I was presented with the Canadian Stage Award and will never forget the encouragement and support of the teachers at St. Joseph Secondary School. I may never have pursued theatre arts as a career if it wasn’t for them. I believe that my Catholic education planted the seed that led to a desire for a closer relationship with God. It gave me the foundation that I needed to grow in faith and inspired me to give back to the community and share my gifts and talents."

An Ontario Catholic School Graduate is expected to be a… discerning believer.

Shernold Edwards is a screenwriter and producer for the television series Haven. Her past achievements include being a production and development executive at CTV where she was involved with award-winning television movies and series like Doomstown and Degrassi: The Next Generation. She also adapted the acclaimed novel, A Day Late and A Dollar Short, for Lifetime Network. In addition to having a Master of Fine Arts Degree in screenwriting from Columbia University, she received the 2015 NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Writing in a Television Movie.

"Many of the opportunities I accessed while attending Catholic school, including creative writing classes, speaking competitions, drama workshops, were critical in shaping the writer that I am today and the writer I still strive to be. It was in Drama class at Holy Name of Mary Secondary School that I first realized that I could tell authentic and personal stories that resonate with others."

An Ontario Catholic School Graduate is expected to be a… reflective, creative, holistic thinker.

David Dixon graduated from Philip Pocock Catholic Secondary School and has gone on to become a world renowned fashion designer. David remained true to his vision and focused on what he felt was a gap in the Canadian Fashion Industry—women’s contemporary evening wear and event dressing. Today, David’s designs are sold across Canada and in select boutiques around the globe. His innovative designs have been featured in publications such as Vogue and Elle, and he has appeared on Fashion Television and Project Runway.

"While attending Phillip Pocock Catholic Secondary School, I was very fortunate to have some really incredible teachers who embraced and nurtured my diverse interests. I was not your typical high school student. I was not athletic or popular, and I was tremendously shy. However, certain faculty and students made my high school years bearable by encouraging my interest in fashion and the Arts. It was that support system that gave me the courage to push myself and to follow my own vision."

An Ontario Catholic School Graduate is expected to be a… collaborative contributor.

Dr. Morant made a decision while studying at the University of Western Ontario to give up basketball to pursue a career in medicine. The St. Joseph Secondary School graduate went on to study medicine at the University of Ottawa. He is currently finishing his Internal Medicine residency and will be starting a Cardiology fellowship at the University of Toronto.

"I am proud to say that I am a product of the Dufferin-Peel Catholic school system. To this day, I still remember the countless number of teachers, coaches, and other staff who went beyond their regular requirements to further my development as an individual.  Whether it was staying after school to coach or supervise sports, or taking the time on their lunch break to explain a difficult concept, the staff was always there to help. The multicultural environment to this day is one of my fondest memories of high school. I learned a great deal about other people’s cultural and religious beliefs and this has served me well in my career as a physician."

At 19 years of age, Robby Fabbri achieved his childhood dream of playing in the National Hockey League. He was drafted 6th overall by the OHL’s Guelph Storm in 2012. His team won the OHL Championship in 2013 and he was named Most Valuable Player of the playoffs. In the 2014 NHL Draft, he was selected 21st overall by the St. Louis Blues. In his very first NHL game, Robby scored his first career goal. Internationally, Robby was a member of Canada’s gold medal winning U18 team at the Ivan Hlinka Tournament in Czech Republic and Slovakia in 2012 and the gold medal winning 2015 World Junior U20 Team.

“Responsibility, time management, leadership and strong work ethic are all qualities that I have learned to balance in my life from a very young age.  Thanks to the dedicated teachers and coaches that I had over the years, for their support and encouragement that allowed me to be successful in both my academics and athletics. I could not have achieved success in both areas without their positive influence. My teachers and coaches taught me to set my goals high and commit to following my dreams no matter what kind of adversity I encountered. It was this kind of support and encouragement that motivated me to work hard every day in hopes of becoming the professional hockey player that I had dreamt of my whole life.”

Appointed Senior Citizenship Judge in October 2013, Renata is a former member of the Social Security Tribunal on which she served immediately following her six year appointment as a Citizenship Judge in Mississauga. As a Citizenship Judge, she presided over thousands of hearings in English and in French, and was called upon to consult on policy, jurisprudence and legislative initiatives to combat fraud and reform the citizenship process. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Criminology, a Master of Arts from the Toronto School of Theology, and a Certificate in Public Relations from the University of Toronto. Renata is a mother of five teens.

“The Felician Sisters, who founded Holy Name of Mary, demonstrated daily their commitment to Christ as they served their students with mercy, compassion and joy. These values, together with their professionalism and determination to deliver an excellent education to young women, instilled in me the confidence to serve the common good with principled leadership in every context -- family, workplace, community. Their humble habit, a visible symbol of their devotion, served as an enduring inspiration to live as a witness to my Catholic faith with cheerful courage.”

Sean Cisterna is a Toronto-based feature filmmaker. A graduate of York University’s Film and Video program, Sean began his directing career on the PBS Kids show, Ricky’s Room. After directing commercials for Corus Entertainment, he produced the feature film, My Brother’s Keeper, and directed the YTV musical, King of the Camp. His 2011 feature film road trip comedy, Moon Point, played the international festival circuit to great success, winning several awards. In 2015, he released the feature film, Full Out (starring Jennifer Beals) and is currently directing the feature film, Kiss and Cry (starring Chantal Kreviazuk).

“Aside from my teachers at Robert F. Hall Catholic Secondary School fostering my love of film from an early age, I’ve also come to realize the virtues instilled in each of us through our education play an integral part in the directing of a film. Justice is giving each character what he or she is rightfully due, and treating them with respect. Fortitude is needed when you approach the 16-hour mark on set and your ability to think creatively is impaired. And patience is key when there are many scenes to shoot, a key crew member is late, an actor forgets his lines and time and money are running out.”

Ohenewa’s journey to wrestling prominence started while she was in high school. By age 17, Ohenewa made Canadian history by being the first Junior to make the Senior National Wrestling Team. Ohenewa is a ten time Senior National Champion, Commonwealth Games gold medalist, World silver and bronze medalist, Pan Am Games silver medalist and Olympian.Ohenewa gives back through motivating, and empowering students to achieve their goals.  She launched a leadership program for students with a goal to provide young people with the guidance they need to make their dreams a reality.   

“Attending two high schools in the Dufferin-Peel Catholic system enriched my athletic career by allowing me to grow in Christ on a daily basis. The power bible verse I used throughout my success, challenges and adversity, is Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Alessia Caracciolo, professionally known as Alessia Cara, is a successful R&B singer and songwriter. She is signed to EP Entertainment and Def Jam Recordings and is best known for the hit song, “Here”. Alessia attended Cardinal Ambrozic Catholic Secondary School. At the age of 10, she began playing guitar and taught herself how to play various songs. At the age of 13, she began her own YouTube channel where she posted covers of songs that she performed. In 2015, at the age of 18, she signed a deal with Def Jam Recordings. Alessia was awarded Breakthrough Artist of the Year at the 2016 Juno Awards. 

“Growing up in a Catholic school helped shape the way I view things today. I grew up around so many cultures, ethnicities, and religions and being in a Catholic school taught me to embrace diversity rather than shut it out. We were taught about other religions and were given a different perspective on what it means to be accepting. Now as a musician, I like to portray the same message with the music I put out: accept yourself and others around you for being who they are.” 

Arthur Peters has worked in various roles within the not-for-profit sector, including the past twelve years as Executive Director of ShareLife and Director of Development for the Archdiocese of Toronto. He has volunteered in his community and province, having served as the State Deputy of the Knights of Columbus of Ontario, and for fifteen years, as a trustee with the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board, becoming the first graduate of the system to serve as Chair of the Board.

“I am proud of, and thankful for, my Catholic education in Dufferin-Peel, and remember many examples from my days as a student that have positively impacted my life.  As a Trustee, I saw first-hand how staff goes above and beyond, both inside and outside the classroom, in many ways that do not get publicized, for the betterment of their students.  My experience as a student and Trustee has helped to form me and allow me to be where I am today. We are blessed in Dufferin-Peel to be a community that puts our faith and values at the forefront of everything that we do.” 

Nik Stauskas is a 6’6” professional basketball player with the NBA’s Philadelphia 76ers. Following two seasons at the University of Michigan, where as a freshman he led his team to the NCAA championship game, and as a sophmore, was named Big 10 Player of the Year. He was selected eighth overall in the 2014 NBA Draft by the Sacramento Kings. In 2015, he was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers. 

“My time at Catholic school taught me morals that will last a life time. I started to fall in love with the game of basketball during my time at St. Mark School. It gave me the opportunity to learn about friendship, teamwork, and goal setting. These are three values that I still use on a daily basis as a professional basketball player. ”

Jeannine is Ernst & Young (EY) Canada’s Talent Development Leader with extensive experience in diversity, inclusion and human equity. Jeannine’s talent development team facilitated EY being named one of the Great Places to Work and Great Places to Work for Women by Great Places to Work®. In 2008, Jeannine received the Ernst & Young Rosemarie Meschi award in the Rising Leader category, an internal award recognizing inclusive leadership, and Ascend Canada’s Mentor of the Year award in 2014. She is a volunteer with Junior Achievement’s Diversity in Action Program and a board member of Ascend Canada.

“My Catholic education was an incredible foundation for me because of the values that we were taught to follow. Values like integrity, honesty, respect and inclusion. My high school gave me the confidence and courage I was looking for and needed to become a leader and advocate for diversity, inclusion and human equity. I am grateful for the Catholic education I received at a pivotal time in my life.”

Cara E. Yar Khan fulfilled her childhood dream, which she attributes to the teachers at Father Michael Goetz Secondary School who guided her to her goal of working for the United Nations to help poor children. It was during her high school years that Cara became active in UN speech and writing competitions and was a Canadian delegate at the 1997 World Summit of Children. Cara has spent most of the past 17 years working with the United Nations - WFP & UNICEF - stationed in 10 countries worldwide, including two years in both Angola and Haiti. Today Cara is the CEO of her own company, RISE Consulting, advocating for the world’s most marginalized and vulnerable people.  

“How ironic that it was the teacher of our Special Needs Class at Goetz, Mr. Hinchey, who first exposed me to  advocating at the UN, only for me to become a professional advocate for people with disabilities, as an adult living in the face of the same adversity. My Catholic school education helped craft this voice of mine that now speaks on behalf of the world’s most vulnerable and marginalized children.”

Aileen Santos is a Theology teacher at Ascension of Our Lord Secondary School in Malton. She is also an author and has published poetry, short stories and creative non-fiction in literary magazines and journals in Canada, the U.S. and the UK. Her debut novel, Someone Like You was published in 2016 by independent Canadian publishing house, Two Wolves Press. Her current piece Six is included in the anthology Wherever I Find Myself: Stories by Canadian Immigrant Women and her poem Pritong Isda is forthcoming in the Ricepaper Magazine anthology.

“Having a Catholic education was absolutely key to my successes in life and not just in my writing but in my relationships too. I learned from a young age to care for, and to include, those who were not included, to fight for what I believed in, and to do it in a smart and effective way. I learned the importance of humility (as Jesus had). I learned the value of sacrifice, hard work and struggle, knowing life is not always going to be easy but that you have to keep going. Finally, I learned that God gives each of us talents and gifts that we are meant to share with the world.”

Curtis Rukavina is a professional scout for the NFL’s Buffalo Bills after spending the last three seasons with the Toronto Argonauts. He attended St. Matthew School and St. Francis Xavier Secondary School where he fell in love with football and was able to follow his dream of staying in the game. He attended the University of Guelph and played four seasons for the Gryphons. Following his graduation, he secured a job in the scouting department with the Toronto Argonauts. 

“Attending St. Francis Xavier Secondary School set me up for success later in life because I learned about priorities (family, academics and faith) and sacrifices. They were instilled in me by my teachers and coaches. They taught me to be disciplined, treat everyone with respect and work hard.”

Prince Amponsah was severely injured in a residential fire in 2012 that required the amputation of both of his arms in order to survive. He now works as a professional actor in theatre, film and television. Some of Prince’s credits include productions at the Shaw Festival, Factory Theatre and the Storefront Theatre, as well as a role on the sci-fi TV show, KILLJOYS. Prince also received the Performer of the Year award for 2016 at the Toronto My Entertainment World Awards.

“All throughout my Catholic education, I always knew I wanted to perform to some capacity and I always felt that my teachers continuously encouraged me to believe in myself. The confidence instilled in me throughout those early years has transferred into every aspect of my life since then. I’ve learned the importance of perseverance and that obstacles can become opportunities."

Dr. Natalie Dal’Bo is a resident physician practicing in Boston, Massachusetts. She attended St. Timothy Elementary School and St. Paul Secondary School, where she was the Valedictorian of her graduating class and captain of the varsity soccer team. After earning three academic scholarships, she went on to study Bio-Medical Science at the University of Guelph. Upon completing her Bachelor’s degree, she attended the University of Limerick Medical School in Ireland, and is now completing her residency in Internal Medicine in the United States. She in-tends on completing fellowship training in Gastroenterology, and aims to incorporate medical education and research into her career.

“It is to the credit of so many of my teachers that I am where I am today. Throughout my time in Dufferin-Peel, they constantly prepared me academi-cally for the years ahead. However, it is the level at which they care about their students that truly makes them excep-tional educators; they go above and beyond to help their students succeed. Being immersed in Catholic education taught me the importance of sacrifice and priorities; respect and kindness, and morality and integrity. I was always encouraged to be my best, both in aca-demics and in sport, and was educated in a warm, positive environment. I can-not say enough good things about my Catholic education, and I’m so fortunate to have had this beautiful experience.”

Aaron graduated cum laude with a Master’s degree in Politics and Security from the Academy of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Kyrgyzstan. He currently works in New York City with the Government of Ontario’s International Trade and Investment Office. Years of passionate engagement in community issues have taken Aaron from the crèches of post-Apart-heid townships in Cape Town to Ukraine’s polling stations, all the way to Colombia’s hilltop villages. Aaron was elected as a City Youth Councillor, has written on security issues as a NATO Canada Fellow, and negotiated and spoken at high-level fora, including the UN and the Com-monwealth. Aaron received the Queen’s Young Leaders Award by HM Queen Elizabeth II and was featured as one of Canada’s Future Foreign Policymakers for 2018 by OpenCanada. 

“My Catholic education cultivated the growth of my entire being. It is steeped in the highest quality of academic rigor, but its ethos is also one that transcends, by enriching the mind, body, and spir-it. From my parents to teachers to the school chaplain, Catholic education shaped my character and humanity, and instilled integrity and compassion – whether in my solitude and reflec-tion, or in service and community. I truly value my Catholic education as it immersed me in a fundamentally in-imitable intellectual culture featuring: the unity of faith in Christ and reason, doctrine and discovery, and piety and learning. As Augustine avowed, faith enlightens reason; and, as Aquinas af-firmed, reason completes faith.”

Sam Rose Phillips is a filmmaker based in British Columbia. Her experience framing narratives alongside collectives like Sea Shepherd, Stand, North Coast Cetacean Society, Clayoquot Ac-tion, and Pacific Wild has taught her that the most powerful way to shift hearts is to show the stories of love and rising that exists when we come together. She is currently making her first feature-length documentary, Turning the Tide. Her words, images, and films are published by Save Our Seas Magazine, Wild Women Magazine, Salty at Heart Journal, CBC’s The Wild Cana-dian Year, and Outdoor Photography Magazine. She has hosted workshops with the Royal BC Museum and is a filmmaking mentor with youth from Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation.

“The support found in my teachers and peers in the DPCDSB was the founda-tion for my living in greater service to this planet. I feel incredibly fortunate to have had compassionate values taught to me at such a young age, showing me that I am more than a student in a sys-tem, I’m a human being with the capac-ity to make the world a better place.”   

Bart Danko appreciates taking opportunities as they present themselves and relishing in the journey. He was able to grow with Dufferin-Peel through the Extended French program, fol-lowing it across several elementary schools. To this day, he attributes his curiosity in learning and discipline to this experience. Bart has since dedicated his professional and volunteer work to legal access issues and sustainability. He received a Bachelor of Sciences degree in Psychol-ogy from the University of Toronto, followed by a Master in Environmental Studies from York University, and law degree from Osgoode Hall Law School. From activism, to public speaking, to legal practice, Bart has delighted in every winding turn of his path.

“In my last year at Notre Dame, random chance had me filling in for a Mock Trial competition.  I was bitten by the legal bug, and my Catholic education unwit-tingly bound me to the idea of respon-sible citizenship. In legal practice and beyond, I have focused on fighting for the social issues that speak to me. From sitting on research boards on the lack of access to justice in Canada, to focusing my legal work on charities and not-for-profits, to speaking in secondary and post-secondary classrooms on my expe-rience with the environment and law, my dedications speak to the values devel-oped through my Catholic education.”

Dr. Amber Menezes is a General Surgeon at the North Bay Regional Health Centre in North Bay, Ontario. She is a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Canada and an Assistant Professor of Medicine at Laurentian University. Dr. Menezes is passionate about patient-centred care through surgical quality improvement and research. While currently chairing a provincial committee on developing guidelines to decrease surgical site infections, she is also working on a provincial and community strategy for reducing opioid use post-surgery to address the increasing levels of opioid dependence and abuse in Canada.

"My teachers instilled in me a love for science, exploration, and community engagement. My educators embodied the concepts of compassion, empathy, and kindness. I learned about social justice and human welfare, not just as a notion, but as a reality requiring careful and constant nurture in order to be truly realized. Through my patient care, I channel the model of kindness and compassion I was taught at St. Thomas Aquinas Secondary School."

Rachel is an Executive Director leading the Canadian advertising business for Sony Pictures Entertainment. Rachel is a graduate of York University with a double major in Political Science and Mass Communications and a diploma in Audio, Visual and Multimedia Production from Seneca College. After graduation, Rachel worked on the CBC show, Drop The Beat as digital content manager, and then as the production assistant for Back Alley Film Productions. She then went on to work in advertising. As a recognized leader within her industry, Rachel has participated on product feedback, awards boards and speaker panels. She has also provided career and personal guidance for young women in advertising as a mentor in the IPG Mediabrands + Facebook Women’s Mentorship Program.

"My Catholic education has provided me with the foundation and fortitude to navigate the challenge of expressing my personal beliefs in the workplace, and build a leadership characterized by inclusion, diversity, equality, patience, and kindness. It has emboldened me to share my personal experience with the Catholic curriculum, educate and encourage others to find similar tenets in their own personal and professional lives, however they choose to express it." 

At the age of 12, Erica Scarff’s life was flipped from being a thriving young gymnast to being a cancer patient fighting for her life and recovering from a leg amputation. Erica had resolved to keep her athletic dreams alive by taking on a new sport - kayaking. She advanced quickly through the ranks and has won many national titles, represented Canada internationally including at the 2016 Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro where she finished 4th at the 2017 World Championship. As her sights were set on gold, she was stopped in her tracks yet again. She was hit by a car while crossing the street and suffered severe physical injuries and mental turmoil. Now with her sights on competing at the Tokyo Paralympics, she continues to focus on her mental health and encourages other to do the same. She hopes her story will inspire others to pursue their dreams and not let anything stand in their way.

"Being part of a Catholic education system meant that countless prayers were said for me during my illness from both students and teachers. Being a part of a community of like-minded individuals gives you strength during the hardest moments of your life. From receiving my sacraments with classmates to saying daily prayers, Catholic education enriched my learning experience and shaped the person I am today."

Vince the Barber, Co-Founder and CEO of Grey Matter, has established himself as the connoisseur for some of Hollywood’s A-List celebrities. A Toronto native, Vince always aspired to move to Los Angeles and open up his own barbershop. Cutting for 17 years, he has mastered the art and techniques of the barber trade. His hard work and years of cutting hair have taken him all around the world educating barbers and stylists in many different countries, where he has been able to share his story, knowledge, and skills. Vince also gives back to the youth; he is the Director of Barbering for a nonprofit organization called Trade-Works Foundation, which focuses on teaching youth in Kingston, Jamaica the tools of the trade and the knowledge to become successful barbers.

"Going to a Catholic school taught me that no matter what comes our way, as long as we have faith in God, we will be able to get through anything. God doesn’t put us in situations that we can’t handle. I’ve been through so many obstacles throughout my career and it’s because of my faith in God, I am where I am and never lost hope!"

Melissa has always had a passion for combining empathy and advocacy with her professional endeavors. During high school, while completing the academically rigorous International Baccalaureate program, she was a part of Student Council and was Prime Minister in her senior year. After high school, she went on to study computer engineering at the University of Toronto. Throughout university, Melissa continued to be involved in student politics as a means to advocate for her fellow students, becoming the Chair of the Computer Engineering Club. She now resides in California where she works at Google as a software engineer for the Google Assistant on Android Auto and the new Android Automotive OS. Melissa volunteers her time with her company's diversity and equity group, arranging workshops and speaker events that provide opportunities to learn about how to empower others, improve product inclusion, and provide a platform to share diversity narratives.

"My Catholic education taught me that we are all made better when we bring our whole selves, including our values, into our work and daily lives. Having always been enrolled in academically rigorous programs, it is easy to focus on the task at hand and separate your personal self from your work. However, throughout school, I was surrounded by a strong community who embodied the virtues of empathy, understanding, and patience. They taught me that no matter the situation, bringing our values into our work serves to further enrich our lives and that of those around us."

Born in Nigeria and raised in the GTA, Sisi Akhigbe is a passionate, young black woman with a drive to see change in the community and help those around her. She is the Founder and Executive Director of Impact Black Global, an organization that looks to build the bridge between Black youth and the wider Black community. It also looks to build the bridge between Black community groups, creatives, and businesses. Sisi holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Law from Carleton University and her interest in legal and political studies has furthered aspirations to one day become a politician. She presently works as a Child Protection Worker with the Children’s Aid Society. She hopes to show other Black youth that they too, can become great and utilize their platforms to help others. 

“My sole purpose in life is to help people in any way that I can because I know that my life is not my own. Catholic education has been foundational in my overall faith and has set the precedence in the direction of my life. I was able to get an education while being surrounded by like-minded people who love God as much as I do. Learning in a Catholic school also helped me realize how much God really loved me as a youth and how much he still loves me today. I haven’t turned back since and I give God all the glory for all that he’s done and is continuing to do in my life.”

Magdalena is a Senior Project Engineer and Strategic Integration Advisor at the Canadian Space Agency for the Government of Canada in Saint Hubert, Quebec. Magdalena is a graduate of the University of Toronto with a Bachelor of Applied Science in Engineering Science specialized in Aerospace Engineering, a graduate of McMaster University with a Masters of Business Administration specialized in Strategic Business Valuation, and a graduate of the International Space University in Strasbourg, France with a Masters of Science in Space Management.

After graduation from UofT, Magdalena was employed at Honeywell Aerospace in Mississauga as a Control Systems Engineer, working on the design of temperature and pressure control systems for aircraft (like the Boeing 777). Her love of learning kept her taking classes part-time towards her MBA.

Her passion for outer space kept nudging her, and she decided to take a chance and do a Master of Science in Space Management. This provided the extra credibility she needed to land her dream job working at the Canadian Space Agency (CSA).
Initially, Magdalena worked on the Canadarm2 for the International Space Station and later transitioned to working on the RADARSAT Constellation Mission project implementing processes and systems for data access to these Earth observation products. Magdalena continues to work on Earth observation missions that support government operations in ice and agriculture monitoring, emergency response and ship detection, as well as supporting the planning for future Canadian space endeavours as part of her work as a strategic integration advisor.

Magdalena is a recognized leader that acknowledges the strength that diversity can bring to an organization and has championed these values through her work as co-chair of the CSA’s Women in Science Technology and Management committee as well being a member of the CSA’s Advisory Committee on Employment Equity and Diversity.

“By strengthening the foundation of my Catholic faith and helping me develop my identity within those fundamentals, my Catholic education helped me become the confident person I am today. Supported by the knowledge that I am never alone; reminded to live a life of inclusion, love, kindness and quiet contemplation – like Jesus did. I am inspired to lead by example and share the Good News and the love of Jesus Christ through my actions and conduct.”

Bishop Camilleri was born in Malta in 1969 and came to Canada in 1980. He acquired degrees in business (B. Comm., M.B.A.), and worked in the field of Mergers & Acquisitions for 10 years. He later completed degrees in theology (S.T.B., M.Div.) and in 2007 was ordained to the priesthood. After studies in canon law (J.C.L.), he was appointed to serve as Chancellor of Spiritual Affairs, Moderator of the Curia and Vicar General for the Archdiocese of Toronto. In November 2020, Pope Francis appointed him Auxiliary Bishop of Toronto. His episcopal ordination took place on January 25, 2021. He has responsibility for the Western Pastoral Region that includes 72 parishes in the western part of the City of Toronto and the Regional Municipality of Peel-Dufferin. Bishop Camilleri is also a Judge on the Regional Ecclesiastical Tribunal, and a university lecturer in canon law.

“My Catholic Education has prepared me for a life of diverse learning and problem solving by instilling in me a desire to always ask questions, to look at issues from several points of view, and from this, to plan and implement the best way forward. This is as true of things in the secular life as it is in the spiritual life. My experience in Catholic Education has also provided me with numerous examples of people, both teachers and students, whom I have looked up to as persons of great integrity and role models for how to lead a joyful, holy and healthy life.”

After graduating from secondary school, Matthew enrolled in the plumbing apprenticeship program at George Brown College. The career path that followed was an exciting and rewarding journey. Matthew built and mastered his trade and relationships with professionals in the field. He then decided to explore the entrepreneurial side of the business and opened Allure Mechanical Inc. Owning his own plumbing business has been demanding, but it has also been very rewarding. Matthew has the opportunity to be a part of projects that help shape the city we live in.

"Being a product of the Catholic education system was beneficial to me as it has allowed me to network and grow with people in our community." 

Muse Mohammed is the top photographer for the UN Migration Agency (IOM) in Geneva, Switzerland where he focuses on current and ongoing humanitarian emergencies. Over the years, he has worked in 34 countries around the globe, where he documented war, natural disasters, climate change, health epidemics, labor migration, human trafficking, and major irregular migration routes.

Over the past six years, Muse’s work has helped create the UN Agency’s visual identity while exploring the human side of migration by giving a voice to refugees, internally displaced persons, and migrants to tell their story. His work has been featured on news media outlets including The Guardian, Al Jazeera English, and in exhibitions including Swiss Press Photo 2018 and 2020.

“My Catholic education taught me the important role that religion plays in the lives of so many people around the world including other faiths. When I traveled to countries ravaged by war and disasters and met people who have lost everything, they would tell me that they still had their faith in God. Religion can act as a bedrock for one when they have nothing left during the most challenging times in their lives.”

Daniel's interest in cooking began in Robert F. Hall Catholic Secondary School's Hospitality and Tourism class. While completing a work placement, his passion became fine dining cuisine.  As a student at Humber College's Culinary Management program, he continued to work and refine his skills. It soon became obvious Daniel's natural ability, coupled with a strong work ethic and a desire to learn, drove him to excel. As Co-Captain of the Junior Culinary Team Canada, he is responsible for the organization, leadership and motivation of the team in addition to developing unique competition menus as they strive for culinary perfection on the world stage at the EXPOGAST Culinary World Cup in Luxemburg this fall, followed by the Culinary Olympics in Germany in 2023. 

"With the goal of achieving gold on the world stage, the pressure is immense. Success depends upon leadership, discipline and drive, all of which are skills instilled in me early by DPCDSB. My Catholic education gave me the knowledge and foundation I consistently require for success. As Co-Captain, I strive to similarly guide and pass on these values to my team members. Looking back, I am thankful to DPCDSB for the values instilled that make me the chef and person I am today and will be in the future."

Angelica is a Senior Robotic Algorithms and Controls Engineer at Intuitive Surgical in California. Intuitive Surgical designs and manufactures surgical robots for minimally invasive procedures.

After graduating from the Extended French Program at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Secondary School, Angelica earned her Bachelor of Applied Science in Honours Mechatronics Engineering from the University of Waterloo, graduating with Distinction – Dean's Honours List. During her undergraduate program, Angelica completed several co-op placements, working in fields such as semiconductor manufacturing, precision engineering, unmanned aerial vehicles, and aerospace. Her capstone project was a robotic suturing tool that was short listed for the international James Dyson Award.

Deciding to specialize in biomedical robotics, Angelica then received her Master of Applied Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the University of British Columbia. Her thesis focused on developing a heart motion compensation system to allow bypass surgery on a beating heart. While studying for her Masters, Angelica attended Stanford University as a visiting student researcher. Angelica was also a participant in the world's first Surgical Robotic Challenge at the Hamlyn Symposium on Medical Robotics in London, England, where she presented her thesis work.

Alongside engineering, Angelica is also passionate about figure skating. While at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Secondary School, Angelica competed at figure skating competitions representing the Brampton-Chinguacousy Figure Skating Club. She was on the Varsity Figure Skating Team at the University of Waterloo for the duration of her undergraduate program. At the University of British Columbia, Angelica organized and founded the university's first figure skating club.

"The values that were both taught and exemplified by the staff of DPCDSB helped guide me to where I am today. Honesty, integrity, respect and, above all, an open mind and heart. Seeing these principles in action during my Catholic education helped demonstrate the importance of balancing hard work with empathy and kindness for others."

Kirk Diamond is aJuno award winning, singer, songwriter, producer and social activist. Kirk andhis band,  The Movement of Ahryel, spreadmessages of unity, inclusion and love through music. A recipient of the 2020International Vigor Award and four-time Juno Award Nominee, Kirk was recognizedin 2022 for his achievement in music and culture by the City of Brampton with apark named in his honour. A resident of Brampton, his full-length album“DREAD” is set to release in 2022.

“In 1998 when I walked through the doors of JohnCabot C.S.S. we were given an agenda/organizer, and on it read, "faith, hope and charity". Three words that totally define who I am as a personand as a creative. What I thought was merely the school motto, has become my personal motto in all that I do. If it wasn't for my experiences at John Cabot,I don't believe I'd be the person I am today." 

Chrisann Hessing is a documentary filmmaker and impact producer based in Toronto. She has produced award-winning short films that have screened at Hot Docs, RIDM, Global Impact Film Festival and the London Asian Film Festival. Her work has been supported by the Ontario Arts Council, Inspirit Foundation, BravoFACT! Foundation to Assist Canadian Talent and Telefilm Canada.

Chrisann's latest film, Turning Tables, won Best Short Documentary at the 43rd American Indian Film Festival, and has screened in over 30 film festivals internationally.

She is passionate about using visual storytelling as a tool to educate, raise awareness, and inspire positive change. Christann has collaborated with a number of community arts organizations including TIFF, JAYU, Reel Asian, and This is Worldtown, an online magazine featuring art and first-person expression of women of colour storytellers.

She previously worked as Festival Manager at Breakthroughs Film Festival, the only festival in Canada devoted exclusively to short films made by emerging women and non-binary directors. Currently, Chrisann works as an Associate Impact Producer at Ring Five Impact Docs, a boutique impact producing and grassroots distribution company based in Toronto.

"In my experience, faith is the foundation of documentary filmmaking. Surrendering to the unknown and witnessing the glory of God unfold in the process has been an incredible lesson in humility. My Catholic education helped strengthen my faith and fostered my belief that God is always present - within nature, within others, and within ourselves."

John Wiggins was named Vice-President, Organizational Culture and Inclusion for the Toronto Raptors on July 7, 2020. He leads a group drawn from all parts of the organization to address both internal matters – such as how to build a team culture that addresses social injustice, inclusion, equity, and political reform – and external outreach.

Wiggins joined the Raptors from Raptors 905, where he helped launch Canada's first G League franchise. He most recently held the title of vice-president and oversaw all day-to-day and business operations for the club. During his tenure, Raptors 905 won their first G League championship in 2017.

Prior to the G League, Wiggins helped start the inaugural teams of the National Basketball League of Canada. He has also worked in leadership positions at the Ford Motor Company and founded and coached a successful AAU team in Melbourne, Florida.

Wiggins is a graduate of the University of Windsor, grew up in Mississauga and lives in the Greater Toronto Area with his family. In 2019, he launched Focused Dreams Forward Foundation, a charitable organization aimed at supporting youth in the Caribbean with academics and athletics.

In September 2022, he was selected to receive the Queen's Platinum Jubilee Community Service Award. The Queen's Platinum Jubilee Pin recognizes members of the community who have made a positive difference, big or small, in the arts, science, innovation, community service, healthcare, education, entrepreneurship, inclusion and/or sport.

"An education based on the principles and teachings of Catholicism not only helped guide and direct my own moral compass, but it truly solidified my commitment to the responsibilities of community service, giving to others, and servant-based leadership."

"From my first day at Queen of Heaven C.E.S. to my last day at St. Paul C.S.S., I am forever grateful for the discipline and drive I received through DPCDSB. St. Paul's motto Omnia Cum Corde, "Everything with Heart," has stuck with me to this day as I am all heart in every aspect of my life. I walk each day with compassion, respect and gratitude thanks to the guidance from my Catholic education."

After graduating from St. Paul Catholic Secondary School, Catherine attended Humber College's Court and Tribunal Agent Program. Catherine then completed a Bachelor of Social Science Criminal Justice Degree from Humber in 2013. Catherine completed Humber's Indigenous Knowledge Program with Honours in 2016. In 2021, Catherine completed the Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Program at Sault College with Honours. She continues her lifelong learning journey at Seneca College with the Forest and Nature Early Years Practitioner Program.

Catherine is a proud Credit River Métis citizen who has dreamt of supporting her Métis community since she attended St. Paul C.S.S. Catherine joined the Metis Nation of Ontario (MNO) in 2016 as a Métis Family Well-being Coordinator in Peel, advocating for youth affected by the Criminal Justice System and the Child Welfare System. She then moved into the Education and Training Branch in 2020, where she provides Family Supports for MNO Citizens and their children so they can reach their full potential and access quality child care and extracurricular supports.

Catherine's passion is supporting Métis families and early learners across the province while acting in the service of Métis citizens to advance and uphold their rights and culture. Catherine's goal has always been to support her Métis community, and she is grateful each day to be able to provide services and advocate for the next generation of Métis citizens. She is thankful to be able to continue learning traditional knowledge each day with her community. 

"My Catholic education set up the foundational pillars of my life – discipline, hard work, and the faith that I can one day achieve my dreams while leading with compassion. Through patience, guidance, and understanding, my gifts were fostered with love by teachers who genuinely cared about my future. I owe them everything."

lindsey addawoo (she/her) is an award-winning screenwriter and filmmaker. Her work is largely in the realm of drama and genre, exploring themes of resiliency and triumph in the face of exploitation. Her stories often centre Black and Brown folks in ways they are not commonly seen.

Her first short film, Queen of Hearts (2018), won the 2017 Inside Out Film Festival BravoFACT pitch award. She co-wrote Promise Me (2020), a short film that won the Standout Short Film Writer Award at Reelworld Film Festival where she was also a Reelworld E20 participant.

Her credits include: Street Legal (CBC), Coroner (CBC/The CW), Xavier Riddle and The Secret Museum (PBS) and Director X's upcoming show, Robyn Hood (Boat Rocker/Corus).

She co-wrote and co-produced No Church in the Wild (2021), a mini docuseries chronicling the life of Jonestown survivor Leslie Wagner-Wilson. Her work has been screened at esteemed film festivals such as Montreal Black Film Festival, American Black Film Festival, Inside Out Film Fest and Reelworld Film Festival.

She is an alumna of BlackWomenFilm! Canada (2016), BIPOC TV and Film's inaugural Episodic Drama Writers' Lab (2021) and Showrunner Bootcamp (2022). lindsey was recently inducted into the 2022 Warner Bros. Discovery Access x Canadian Academy Writers Program and is currently developing a genre project with Warner Media.

lindsey holds a Bachelor of Arts in media production from Toronto Metropolitan University (Ryerson University).

"I learned about Christianity and the virtues of being a good Christian in Catholic elementary and secondary school. I practice my faith and serve the Lord by playing with the church choir. I am so thankful to God for the gift of music. I will strive to keep on sharing the gift and be an inspiration to all."

Ron is a gifted 30-year-old special young man, who was diagnosed with autism at the age of 3.

He finished his elementary education at Father Daniel Zanon Catholic Elementary School in Mississauga. He then went to St. Joan of Arc Catholic Secondary School where he spent seven years until his graduation.

He started to manifest his love of music at the age of 7 and has performed at several functions for different organizations in Canada and the Philippines, including Fil-Can Autism Parent Support Group, Fil. Health and Education Foundation Canada, Autism Society Ontario, and many more.

Ron's first public guest appearance in a concert was at Filipino concert artist's Jenifer Camacho's special event in Mississauga on March 10, 2007. It was Ron's first public appearance and followed by couple of his guesting on her several concerts in Toronto.

On May 23, 2009, Ron had his first major solo concert at the Brae Ben Golf Course in Mississauga, which was attended mostly by guests who have touched Ron's life. It was a fundraising event for the Autistic Kids of PICARD, Paete Intervention Center for Autism and Other Related Disorder, in Paete, Laguna, Philippines. He also launched his first CD entitled "My Music and Me".

Ron had the honour of being the Symposium Ambassador for the Geneva Centre for Autism held at the Metro Convention Centre in Toronto in November 2010. He also performed for the Centre's Gala Night and Auction at the Koerner Hall at the Royal Conservatory of Music at the University of Toronto the following year. He was also the recipient of the Mississauga Streetsville Musicorp award in 2013.

In June 2013, he presented a graduation gift to his Alma Mater, St. Joan of Arc Catholic  Secondary School, a piano recital entitled "A Night to Remember" held at Brampton Golf Club, where he also launched his second CD "A Quiet Night with Ron".

In October 2015, Ron's third CD entitled "One More Time", a compilation of his favourite classical pieces including the 5th Symphony for 4 hands by Beethoven where he played with his piano teacher Ms. Eileen Keown, was launched.

It was a great privilege when he was invited at the Gala Night Fundraising Event by the Community Living Mississauga in March 2017. Ron played the piano and gave a short speech in front of 1,500 guests at Mississauga Convention Centre.

He was fortunate to be able to play with Supertramp's Roger Hodgson's "Give A Little Bit" on stage together with the other talented individuals on the spectrum through Jake's House Fundraising Event held at Sony Centre on April 2, 2019, Autism Day.

On January 18, 2020, was his very first sold out concert in Manila, Philippines, entitled "Ron Adea in Concert" held at Teatrino, Greenhills Promenade in San Juan City. The concert was held for the benefit of the children with autism in the Philippines, through the Home Empowerment Program of the Autism Society Philippines, with the initiative of Magnificent Seven, whose advocacy is for kids in the spectrum.

He also received ASP's "Autism Angel A5 Achievement Award" for the Performing Arts last January 2020.

Ron was also one of the recipients of the "Quincentennial Award from Sentro Rizal" of the Philippine Consulate General in Toronto, given on June 12, 2021. In recognition of his invaluable and continued support to the Filipino Community and the Philippine Consulate General in Toronto on the occasion of the 123rd Anniversary of Philippine Independence, Filipino Heritage Month and the Quincentennial Commemorations in the Philippines.

Presently, Ron is busy with his ASD Band, where he is the keyboardist. The band started during their stint with Roger Hodgson's concert at the Autism Awareness Day on April 2, 2019.

The four members of the band were also featured in the documentary film entitled "OKAY" the ASD Band Film, which won 2nd place at the Hot Docs Documentary Film Festival in April 2022 and also voted for Rogers Audience Award.

In April 2023, Ron and the ASD Band were featured at Canada's Got Talent where they got four yeses from the four judges.

This coming summer at the CNE, the ASD Band was also invited to perform at the International Stage together with other artists.

Though he has been very busy with his newly formed ASD Band, he also joined the Special Olympics bowling and swimming categories. Despite his hectic routine with numerous endeavours he still makes effort to impart time and talent for various special events that benefit persons with special needs. He also volunteers playing classical piano music to the residents of VIVA Retirement Home.

On a spiritual level, Ron has joined the church choir "Christus Chorum" of the Cristo Rei Parish Mississauga, as his way of giving back to the Creator the many blessings and favours he received through the years. Through his gift of music, Ron desires to constantly share his gifts and to continuously become an inspiration not only to his colleagues but especially to others who have the faculties to hone their talents to serve God and others.

Music is Ron's form of expression; it has played a significant role in helping Ron to overcome his disability - where Disability becomes Ability.

"As pupils of the Catholic education school system, our teachers, peers and endless family support helped guide us to develop a foundation of discipline, moral values, integrity, charity, commitment and compassion. These Catholic values guide us in our daily interactions serving and giving back to our community as we are all made in the image and likeness of God. We would like to express our sincerest gratitude to all of our family and friends who have supported our dream. We are so grateful to have you in our lives and we thank you with all our hearts."

La Casa Dolce began operations in March 2006 by the Viola Brothers Steve, David & Andrew. For the first two years of business, the brothers made cakes for friends and family in the 700 square foot basement of their parent's home. In March 2008, La Casa Dolce became an official registered partnership. They continued to attract new clients from different regions of the Greater Toronto Area with their unique and creative "one of a kind" cakes. After more than three years, the brothers' dream of one day owning and operating their own custom cake shop had come true. On October 14, 2009, La Casa Dolce Custom Cakes & Pastries was officially open for business at 732 Browns Line in Etobicoke. By 2012, the Viola brothers and their growing team/family started to outgrow their small three floor 1,800 square foot store. In December 2012, six years after their first cake was made from the basement of their parent's home, the brothers and their family moved back to their Mississauga roots. They opened a brand new 5,000 square foot facility at 755 Queensway Street E., Mississauga.

In April 2023, La Casa Dolce Bakery suffered a great loss of their brother and co-owner, Steve Viola. Steve was always hospitable and lent a helping hand to others in need, whether it was a stranger or a long-time customer. His generosity and caring soul were admired by so many which was truly felt by the love and support given by the community at the time of his passing. Along with the La Casa Dolce Bakery Family, David and Andrew continue to carry on Steve's legacy and serve the Mississauga public with delectable desserts, cakes and savory pastries as he envisioned in his memory. 

"My time at St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S was transformational. Having the opportunity to explore an in-depth arts program ignited a passion I did not know I had. It also laid the foundations for my career in theatre as an actor, playwright, director and artistic leader, all of which I had the opportunity to explore during my time at St. Thomas Aquinas."

Cameron Grant is an actor, playwright, theatre creator, artist educator, and the Artistic Director of Shakespeare in Action. As an actor, Cameron has performed in theatres across the country including the Grand Theatre (London), Persephone Theatre (Saskatoon), Thousand Islands Playhouse, Soulpepper, Stratford Festival, four seasons at the Shaw Festival, Shadow Theatre (Edmonton), Talk Is Free Theatre, Theatre Animal, Theatre Erindale, Secret Shakespeare Series, Canadian Rep Theatre, and Clay and Paper Theatre. He has assistant directed productions at Bard on The Beach, Factory Theatre and Theatre Erindale. His first play, Meet Chloe, a play that explores the challenges Black students face in the education system and the lack of Black curriculum content in the study of Canadian History, received its premiere at Carousel Players. Cameron also works as an artist educator and has developed and facilitated workshops for the City of Brampton Performing Arts, Theatre Direct, The Shaw Festival, The Rose Theatre, Suitcase In Point Theatre, and in high schools across Ontario. He was the co-facilitator for the first cohort of the Heartbeats in Performing Arts program at the City of Brampton Performing Arts in 2021 and supported the program as a mentor in 2022. In 2022, Cameron completed an internship in Artistic Leadership with the City of Brampton Performing Arts, funded by the Canada Council for the Arts before and later that year became the Artistic Director at Shakespeare in Action. 

"My Catholic education taught me the values of respect, inclusion and empathy. It taught me about service to others, and respect for all identities, faiths and cultures. It has given me an understanding of community and connectedness, and an appreciation that we are all part of something bigger. These are all reasons I became a social worker and have continued on this service path for well over 20 years."  

Mary Beth is an accomplished professional and inspiring leader who has dedicated her career to helping children, youth, and families in Peel Region and beyond.

The Peel Children's Aid Society's first female CEO, Mary Beth's vision and commitment to partnership, community collaboration, and transparency, are well known and respected throughout the community.

Together with their partners and service teams, Mary Beth has led and implemented large-scale initiatives that have had wide-ranging impacts across the child welfare sector.

Just a few of these initiatives include establishing the Child Welfare Immigration Centre of Excellence (CWICE), creating the Trailblazers Youth Centre, and leading the child welfare sector's provincial Syrian Refugee Response.

Mary Beth is an outcome-driven leader who continually strives to innovate, influence, and transform services and supports. She believes actions speak louder than words and ensures that equity, anti-racism and Truth and Reconciliation are at the centre of the agency's practices. Mary Beth is fully committed to addressing anti-Black racism, racism, and all forms of oppression and discrimination against Indigenous, racialized, and 2SLGBTQ+ children, youth, and families, and all equity-deserving communities.

Mary Beth holds a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Windsor and is a life-long resident of Peel Region.

Julia Pulo is a dynamic multidisciplinary performer based in Toronto. AMississauga native, she graduated with Honours from Sheridan College's Bachelorof Music Theatre Performance program in 2023. Her notable theatre creditsinclude Lucy in Narnia (Bad Hats/Theatre Sheridan), Polly in The PreposterousPredicament of Polly Peel (Theatre Sheridan), and Constance in Ride the Cyclone(Tweed & Co). In TV and film, Julia has appeared in Bakugan (SpinMaster)and Teletubbies (WildBrain/Netflix). In addition to her stage and screen work,Julia has worked professionally as a background vocalist at MetalWorks Studiosand has experience in film, TV, commercial, and voice-over work. In 2023, shemade her professional theatre debut with Mirvish Productions, performing asPrincipal Anne Boleyn in SIX the Musical.

"My upbringing in the Catholic school system from Grades 1-12influenced my current worldview. Being in a Catholic school taught me toembrace individuality. I grew up surrounded by so many diverse cultures,ethnicities, and beliefs and I was able to hear and experience so many peoplewith different worldviews and upbringings come together in friendship and,despite differences, connect through shared experience, embracing ouruniqueness as well as our commonalities. In my performance career, being ableto bring that love of connection through finding excitement about and embracingwhat makes myself and my colleagues unique, as well as finding what we share incommon despite our differences, is essential to being a good storyteller.”

Dr. Chika Stacy Oriuwa is a distinguished physician, spoken word poet, public speaker, and advocate for equity and wellness. A graduate of the University ofToronto's Faculty of Medicine, where she was valedictorian of her graduating class, Dr. Oriuwa is currently completing her psychiatry residency with plansto pursue further specialization in neuro-psychiatry. Beyond her clinical work,Dr. Oriuwa is actively involved on various boards, leveraging her expertise to promote equal opportunity and foster spaces for wellness and artistic expression. Her achievements have been widely recognized; she was named one ofBest Health Magazine's '2020 Women of the Year' and TIME Magazine's 2021 NextGeneration Leaders. Additionally, she was honoured in Mattel’s #ThankYouHeroescampaign with a unique Barbie doll created in her likeness to celebrate her contributions as a frontline healthcare worker. Dr. Oriuwa is set to release her debut memoir, Unlike The Rest: A Doctor’s Story, with Harper Collinson October 1, 2024.

“A Catholic education provided me not only with the wisdom, but the compassion and tenacity I needed to lay the foundation of my career and life. When I was an elementary student at St Marguerite Bourgeoys Catholic Elementary School, I grew to value the core elements of our faith and strove to integrate them into my daily life and discipline. As a high school student at St. Thomas Aquinas CatholicSecondary School, I deepened my love and devotion to walking in Christ's love, which set the stage for me to excel in university and beyond. My educators during this time, especially Mrs. Wendy Templar, stood as exemplary pillars ofCatholic strength and leadership - I looked to them as a compass while I navigated my early educational years. I am forever indebted and grateful for my journey through the DPCDSB.”

Omar Allison is the Owner of Hybrid Garbs and the founder of both Mental Balance and A Creator's World. A graduate of St. Marguerite D'Youville Catholic Secondary School, Omar currently serves in the Canadian Armed Forces. As a dedicated community leader and mental health activist, Omar is committed to creating impactful opportunities within his community. A Creator's World, his screen printing, embroidery, and marketing company, partners with over a dozen schools to help students discover a sense of belonging and purpose through design and content creation. Mental Balance, focuses on Black men's mental health and recently held its inaugural Mental Wellness Gala, raising funds for underserved communities. Hybrid Garbs, which he continues in honour of his late twin brother, who was tragically killed in 2018, represents the internal struggle between the good and the bad within us. It embodies the belief that "there is no good without the bad."

Omar's role in the Canadian Armed Forces enhances his ability to instill confidence, punctuality, and respect in students and community members, enriching his work across these initiatives.

"I now see more clearly than ever that my Catholic education prepared me for the challenging paths I had to travel. It taught me patience, understanding, and, most importantly, forgiveness. Today, as I navigate my businesses, those teachings guide me in maintaining faith during times of uncertainty."

Jack is the visionary behind Illusion Images Ltd., a company he launched right after high school in 1997. With a simple idea and a lot of heart, Jack blended his passion for art with his career ambitions, quickly making his brand known for innovation and school spirit. Over 25 years in business, Illusion Images Ltd. has dedicated itself to creating custom murals that transform ordinary walls into extraordinary stories.

Under Jack's guidance, Illusion Images Ltd. has achieved significant milestones. The company has been selected to create corporate designs for prestigious clients such as Coca-Cola, Magna International, and Labatt Breweries. These projects have showcased Jack's ability to blend creativity with brand identity, resulting in impactful visuals.

Jack and his team have also established long-term working relationships with various school boards, enriching educational environments across the province. From hallways and libraries to cafeterias and gymnasiums, their work brings bursts of colour and creativity to these spaces. Jack's focus on school murals aims to create a sense of inclusivity and inspire students, much like how St. Francis Xavier Catholic Secondary School inspired him.

Outside of Illusion Images Ltd., Jack channels his creative energy into canvas artworks, reflecting his deep passions. His work continues to captivate and inspire, leaving a lasting impact on both commercial and educational communities.

"Through my Catholic education, I learned values that guide my life and my work as a mural artist. The virtues instilled in me—empathy, respect, and passion for lifelong learning—are the colours I bring to every mural I create. I am proud to share these virtues with future generations, painting lessons of faith and wisdom on the walls of schools that cherish these values."

Jabari joined Peel Region from the City of Toronto bringing over 14 years of municipal experience and holding a variety of progressive roles including the Director, Employment and Social Services. As the Manager, Youth Development, Jabari worked on the development of the Toronto Youth Equity Strategy (TYES) which was unanimously adopted by the City of Toronto as a five-year strategy to provide more accessible and relevant supports to youth who are most vulnerable to involvement in serious crime and violence. Jabari has spent much of his career focusing on the delivery and management of social assistance programs and developing relationships with key community service providers and stakeholders. He has proven himself a strong strategic leader with a commitment to this area. Jabari is passionate and dedicated to providing overall delivery of income and social supports to the community and residents of Peel. Jabari holds a Master's degree in Public Policy, Administration and Law from York University and a Bachelor of Social Work degree from Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University).

"My experience in Catholic education was transformative as a Black student. It extended beyond academics to encompass faith, community, and values that profoundly influenced my perspective and guided my path. Through this journey, I forged lifelong friendships with peers who shared similar values and supported one another through challenges and triumphs."

Cassandra's culinary journey began at Cardinal Leger Catholic Secondary School, where a Hospitality and Tourism class sparked her unexpected passion for cooking. What started as a fun elective quickly turned into a lifelong commitment to the Culinary Arts.

Following secondary school, Cassandra pursued a Culinary Management program at Georgian College, further deepening her enthusiasm for the field. Her career took her through various esteemed kitchens, including the Muskoka Lakes Golf and Country Club and the Hilton Hotel. Currently, Cassandra is with the Oliver and Bonacini Group, where she has advanced from line cook to sous chef, and now holds the position of Chef de Cuisine.

"During my time at Cardinal Leger Catholic Secondary School, I discovered much about myself and deepened my faith. It was there that I first explored the culinary arts, laying the crucial groundwork for my career and igniting a lifelong passion."