Board of Directors

An inclusive leader with more than 25 years of experience in Financial Services, including roles at two of Canada’s Big Six banks. A skilled communicator with a proven track record of building high-performing teams by aligning strategy, execution, and governance to deliver sustainable results. In addition to my professional expertise, I have dedicated over 15 years to volunteering and working within my community, deepening my commitment to positive social impact. Since 2022, I have been collaborating with Blue Door, where I currently serve as Board Chairman, to address the root causes of homelessness through focused initiatives in housing, health, and employment programs.

Anika is a Research Administration Officer for the University of Toronto. Prior to this position, she was a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Canadian Observatory on Homelessness. She holds a PhD in Psychology and has worked on two homelessness enumeration events in Durham Region. As a former refugee, Anika is excited to bring her lived experience to Blue Door to make meaningful change to those experiencing homelessness.

Julie is a lawyer with a global professional services firm that provides a broad range of risk, retirement and health solutions where she is routinely involved with governance related matters. Julie is currently Co-Chair of the Governance Committee for Blue Door. Prior to joining Blue Door, Julie was on the Board of Directors for 360°Kids.

Chirag is a 17-year member of the York Regional Police. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Western University and holds a Masters of Arts degree from the University of Guelph. Chirag is passionate about serving the community and is committed to Blue Door’s mission and vision.

Vidia is a social policy, public sector leader with extensive experience in poverty and homelessness response systems change and transformations, focusing on the best outcomes for people with an all of community approach. Vidia has held several non-profit board positions, is invested in community well-being, and supports a wide range of activities as an active alumni at the University of Toronto.

Caroline is a healthcare leader with progressively senior experience in the publicly-funded healthcare system. In her current role as Director at the Central Local Health Integration Network, Caroline works closely with health system partners to improve patient outcomes and drive innovation. In addition to her nursing diploma Caroline holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology and Biomedical Ethics from the University of Toronto and a Master’s of Business Administration from Athabasca University. Caroline is excited to contribute to achieving Blue Door’s mission.

Denise has retired from her consulting practice after 30 years in the global financial industry. She now volunteers on consulting assignments in developing countries, supporting women in empowering their communities. Her commitment to continued learning and a broad reading list keeps her informed and engaged with diverse perspectives. Denise has been a Blue Door board member since 2020 and currently serves as Treasurer.

David is a retired High School teacher, who is currently a supply teacher with the TDSB. He has an M.A. in Geography and an M.Ed. David was previously the president of Mosaic Interfaith Out of the Cold until the merger in 2021 and coordinated a volunteer-run Homeless Shelter in Thornhill from 2000 to 2020. Co-author of seven local SideRoad GuideBooks, David is also involved in the History and Heritage of Thornhill through two local societies.