Colette Newby
co-founder
I completed my BSc. in Behavioural Neuroscience and currently work in pediatric research. I also have experience supporting a child with autism through behavioural intervention. Through my work with children and families, I’ve seen how often therapies, equipment, or assessments are recommended, but families are left to figure out how to afford them on their own. Many families don’t know what funding programs exist to help or can’t find any they are eligible for. Information can be difficult to find or shared only through word of mouth. I started this project to help families across BC discover and access the supports they need.
Mehrshad Aalipour
co-founder
I work in pediatric research. Through my academic work and clinical research experience, I have become increasingly aware of how difficult it can be for families to navigate the healthcare and support systems available to them. When I became involved in developing BC Kids Funding Navigator, I realized that even when support programs exist, the information is often scattered across different organizations and websites, making it difficult for families to identify what they may qualify for. Through this project, I hope to help make funding information easier for families across BC to find, understand, and access.
Macy Novis
social media lead
I recently completed a Marketing Management diploma and have experience in digital marketing and brand strategy. I was excited to join BC Kids Funding Navigator because it combines my interest in marketing with a resource that can make a real difference for families. This work is especially meaningful to me because my mom is an Educational Assistant and has seen firsthand the impact that funding and support programs can have on children and families. I’m excited to contribute through content creation and helping raise awareness of supports available across BC.
Dorsa Hamidi
program development team
My name is Dorsa and I recently graduated from UBC with a BSc in Biology. I’m excited to be part of the BC Kids Funding Navigator team and contribute to a project that helps families find the support and resources they need. My role involves finding new funding opportunities and verifying existing funding information to make sure the information is accurate and up to date. I know how frustrating it can be when information is outdated or difficult to find, so I’m happy to help make things a little easier for families. I’m most excited about helping build a resource that people can rely on and knowing that the work we do can make a real difference for families.
Kaveri Somaiah
program development & outreach team
I recently graduated with a B.A. in Psychology with a concentration in Neuroscience and currently work in clinical translational research. Through my work, I have seen firsthand how evidence-based practices and community support can positively impact individuals and families, but I have also noticed a significant gap between the resources available and families’ awareness of or access to them. When I learned about BC Kids Funding Navigator, I was inspired by its mission to bridge that gap by connecting families with valuable services and funding opportunities. I am passionate about increasing awareness of available supports and helping ensure families, across the lower mainland, can access the care and resources they need to thrive.
Sofia Povoledo
volunteer coordinator
I am a UBC graduate with a BSc in Neuroscience. I am passionate about improving access to resources, education, and support for families and young people across BC. Through my background in science outreach and community-based education, I have seen how meaningful it can be when information is made clear, approachable, and available to the people who need it most, including families in rural and underserved communities. I joined BC Kids Funding Navigator because I believe families should not have to navigate scattered funding systems alone. I am excited to help build a strong volunteer team, support outreach efforts, and contribute to a resource that makes finding support feel less overwhelming and more accessible.
Elena Friesen
outreach team
I am a new graduate nurse based in Kelowna. My background in nursing has strengthened my understanding of the challenges families can face when accessing services, and I value a compassionate, family-centered approach to care and advocacy. I am excited to contribute to BC Kids Funding Navigator by helping improve access to information, fostering meaningful connections, and supporting families as they navigate complex systems. I am excited to support the organization’s growth and outreach across the province, helping expand awareness and accessibility of funding resources for families in communities within the Okanagan and beyond.