Need Support?

Donate

Our Story

iHuman Youth Society: Building Connections Through Collaboration and Creativity

iHuman Youth Society is an Edmonton-based non-profit organization founded in 1997 by artists Wallis Kendal and Sandra Bromley. Their work on The Art of Peacemaking: The Gun Sculpture served as the catalyst for the organization, engaging young people through art, dialogue, and early forms of mentorship and community connection.

The strong interest from youth highlighted a need for consistent, accessible support. In response, the founders sought funding and space to continue this work, creating opportunities for young people to engage in creative programming and build meaningful connections.

Over time, iHuman has evolved into an integrated, community-based model of care that combines arts-based programming with mentorship and wraparound support. Grounded in early intervention and prevention, the organization responds to the diverse experiences and needs of youth navigating complex social and economic challenges, with a focus on improving access, strengthening well-being, and supporting positive long-term outcomes.

stories of courage inspiring our mission

Elevating Our Work to Meet the Ever-Changing Needs of At-Risk Youth

iHuman is committed to early intervention, informed by the lived experiences of youth navigating complex challenges. Through a flexible, collaborative model, iHuman continuously adapts to emerging needs; reducing barriers and strengthening supports that promote stability, well-being, and positive long-term outcomes. Creative programming supports relationship-building, strengthens protective factors such as confidence and self-esteem, and creates meaningful pathways to services; an approach backed by research and proven to help youth build stability and move forward.

 

2025-2030

View Report

creativity, care, and community

Since its inception nearly 30 years ago, iHuman has believed in the transformative power of the arts.

For nearly 30 years, iHuman Youth Society has supported youth navigating complex social and economic challenges through an integrated model of care that brings together creative programming and coordinated supports.

Grounded in trauma-informed practice and early intervention, iHuman leverages the arts to build trust, strengthen protective factors, and create accessible pathways to services.

This model contributes to improved stability, skill development, and long-term outcomes for youth.

Mission

iHuman Youth Society is a non-profit that believes all young people matter and have contributions to share. In partnership with marginalized young people, we amplify their creative expression, address their needs and support their goals.

Vision

Every marginalized young person feels welcomed, connected, and valued. Their wisdom and creativity creates a vibrant future.

champions of youth empowerment

Our Staff and Board

At iHuman Youth Society, our dedicated staff and board members are passionate individuals who are driven by a shared commitment to empower at-risk youth. With diverse backgrounds in social work, healthcare, the arts, community and business development, they bring a wealth of expertise to our mission. They are motivated by the opportunity to create real change, believing that every young person deserves a chance to realize their full potential. By supporting iHuman, they engage in work that goes beyond service—it’s about fostering creativity, resilience, and hope in the lives of marginalized youth.

Our Staff Members

Beryl Bacchus

Executive Director
Beryl is driven by her passion for social impact, dedicating her career to supporting strategic development, staff enhancement, brand management & organizational growth. Strategic vision & a commitment to mentorship & empowerment allows her to recognize & nurture the unique potential of her team, turning vision into reality through collaboration. In her downtime, Beryl enjoys traveling, live music, cooking, & spending quality time with her husband, family & friends.
Beryl@iHuman.org

Kshama Ranawana She/Her

Executive Assistant
Before joining iHuman, Kshama built a strong foundation in Administration & HR across various social service organizations. Holding a diploma in Human Rights, she also worked on women’s rights & media freedom in Sri Lanka, organizing Right to Information Act campaigns at Women & Media Collective & the Sri Lanka Press Institute. An avid reader & published writer, Kshama has been featured in EconomyNext.lk, Counterpoint.lk, & Immigrant Muse.
Kshama@iHuman.org

Jelena Bojic, She/Her

Development Team, Marketing and Fundraising
With a rich background in communications, marketing & public relations, Jelena brings over a decade of experience in developing compelling marketing campaigns & securing vital funds for non profit organizations. Her expertise extends to community & government relations, & stakeholder engagement. Jelena's passion for advocacy & her commitment to social causes are reflected in her approach to raising awareness & support for iHuman's mission.
Jelena@iHuman.org

Colleen Thasitis, She/Her

Development Team, Digital Marketing and Finance
As an experienced entrepreneur with Métis heritage, Colleen brings unique perspective, strong business acumen, & a talent for communicating vision through digital platforms. Known for her holistic problem-solving, intuitive insights & authenticity, she approaches every project with deep commitment to integrity & impact. Now, with a newfound passion for the non-profit sector, Colleen is dedicated to using her expertise to make a meaningful, lasting impact in the community, honoring her heritage & values through her work.
Colleen@iHuman.org

Violet Poon She/Her

Development Team, Human Resources
Violet has provided HR support to nonprofit organizations for over 10 years. She values impacting the community in her work. What she enjoys about working with iHuman is their approach to supporting youth with their needs, and engaging their creativity through various art forms.
Violet@iHuman.org

Sean Arceta He/Him

Director of Community Relations
Sean "Pharush," RSW, has been with iHuman since 2012, dedicated to supporting Edmonton's inner-city youth through creative outreach. His passion for Breakdancing & HipHop culture fuels his ability to empower youth from diverse backgrounds, promoting wellness through the arts & community resources. He understands the challenges & barriers young people face & advocates for accountability within the systems that impact their lives.
Sean@iHuman.org

Belinda Leon She/Her

Outreach Worker
Belinda is a passionate social worker dedicated to iHuman's mission of empowering youth through creative & supportive programming. With a background in community engagement & a talent for building trusting relationships, she takes an authentic & compassionate approach to supporting marginalized youth. Belinda is committed to creating a safe, inclusive space for self-expression, advocating for positive change within the iHuman community.
Info@iHuman.org

Kristen Kaemingh She/Her

Outreach Worker
Kristen is a recent Social Work graduate who is excited to be part of the iHuman team. She is passionate about empowering and supporting youth in achieving their goals. Outside of work, she enjoys painting, crochet and spending time in nature.
Info@iHuman.org

Roger Ogden He/Him

LiNKS Mental Health Psychologist
Roger has been at iHuman since 2013. He earned his credentials as a psychologist primarily through completing his practicum and provisional his work with iHuman youth. Roger continues his work at iHuman through providing counseling, assessment, and advocacy to iHuman youth. Roger also enjoys sharing his knowledge and experience supervising future counselors and psychologists completing their practicum work at iHuman. Concurrent with his work at iHuman, Roger attends to his busy private practice.
Roger@iHuman.org

Kelsey Lummer She/Her

LiNKS Mental Health and Addictions Counsellor
Born and raised in Edmonton, AB. Kelsey has spent the past 12 years supporting youth and their families. Previously an educator and now a mental health therapist, she is passionate about helping youth connect to their strengths and find their place in their community. She is committed to advocating for marginalized youth and strives to give them a voice to be heard and understood. Kelsey finds inspiration from nature and enjoys spending time in the mountains on her days off.
Info@ihuman.org

Allie Saurette She/Her

Frontline Services Manager
As Team Lead for iSucceed, Allie is dedicated to guiding marginalized youth with empathy & strategic support. Drawing from her own lived experiences, she connects with youth on a meaningful level, meeting them where they are. Allie’s commitment to trauma-informed care ensures each youth receives the support they need to overcome complex barriers. Beyond work, Allie expresses her creative side through art, live music, & treasures time with loved ones, a good TV binge or nap.
Info@iHuman.org

Kaylee Frame-Ray

iSucceed Team Lead
Kaylee is dedicated to uplifting and empowering youth through life's complexities, drawing inspiration from lived experience. These journeys have shaped her empathy and connection to young people. At iHuman, Kaylee provides compassionate, person-centered care that honors each individual's story and creates spaces where youth feel seen, heard, and valued. Her mission is to help youth build confidence, resilience, and hope for the future.
Info@iHuman.org

Matthew Spearn

iSucceed Navigator
Matt has advocated for social justice since 2016 and has been involved in the Edmonton music scene since the 90s, playing and performing in various bands, fueling his passion for guitar. When not immersed in music or human rights, he enjoys tabletop gaming, painting Citadel miniatures, and bringing their intricate details to life. "Gaming is my way to unwind, blending strategy, creativity, and a touch of imagination."
Info@iHuman.org

Efua Ahey

Family Room Programming Coordinator
Efua is the iSucceed Administrative Assistant and Navigator at iHuman. With a talent for organization and a passion for supporting youth, Efua coordinates resources and guides young people toward growth opportunities, fostering a welcoming, supportive environment.
Info@iHuman.org

Cherish Hepas She/Her

Soul Kitchen Coordinator
New to the team but not to the non profit sector, Cherish as a decade of experience with at risk youth in Edmonton. With a background in Culinary arts from Vancouver she has worked in many fields in the industry from fine dining to hospital care. Cherish enjoys the simple beauty of taking care of her family and a slow paced life with good food,friends,art and music.
Info@iHuman.org

Samuel J. Mensah He/Him

Sound Studio Coordinator
Samjay is a passionate and talented music producer, audio engineer, videographer, and photographer. As the Sound Studio Coordinator, he is dedicated to nurturing youth creativity. "One thing I appreciate about iHuman is connecting with the youth and witnessing their expression through art."
Info@iHuman.org

Taiessa Pagola She/Her

Visual Arts Studio Coordinator
Taiessa is a local artist with an eclectic background in festival production, youth mentorship, and community organizing. She believes in the transformative power of art-making and studio practice to grow capacities, build community, and foster social change. Outside of the studio, Taiessa enjoys tending to plants, spending time with her dog, and laughing so hard she cries with friends.
Info@iHuman.org

Our Board Members

Nik Sihapanyaxay

President
Hi, I'm Nik, & I've had the privilege of serving as iHuman's Treasurer for the past three years. My journey with iHuman began when I was inspired by the vibrant art painted on the building by talented artists from the organization, along with witnessing the youth creating in a safe & supportive environment. With a background in finance from the commercial banking sector, I bring valuable expertise to understanding the organization's budget & overall financial position. In my free time, I enjoy running, boxing, yoga, golf & the occasional drop-in dance class.

Gayla Grinde

Vice President
Gayla, a Registered Occupational Therapist and Assistant Teaching Professor at the University of Alberta, brings expertise in early developmental trauma and occupational therapy. With a strong background in supporting families and youth facing trauma, she offers invaluable insights into trauma-informed care as a member of iHuman's board, championing inclusive, holistic approaches that empower youth to heal and grow.

Kealey Dube

Secretary
Stay tuned for more about Kealey

Melinda Noyes

Director
Melinda Noyes has extensive experience working in the Edmonton community championing social issues such as housing, poverty, and neurodiversity. She holds a Masters Degree in Community Development from University of Victoria and is presently the Executive Director of Autism Edmonton. She joined the iHuman Board after a tour of the building and programs in 2020 left an indelible impression of the richness and talent the young people bring to our community.

Cecilia Blasetti

Director
Cecilia is an innovative manager in the health care sector with extensive experience working with vulnerable & marginalized populations. With a strong leadership background in the non-profit & charitable sector, she has successfully managed a primary health care center based on the community health center model & has overseen addiction services. Her expertise in building partnerships & collaborations ensures continuity & integration of health care & support services for underserved populations. Cecilia is dedicated to creating positive change within the sector.

Kelsey Johnson

Director
Stay tuned for more about Kelsey

Jolie Erick (she/her)

Director
With over 20 years of experience in financial management and accounting, including a decade in the nonprofit sector, Jolie brings expertise in both audit and organizational finance. Their background includes work with MNP LLP and financial leadership at Zebra Child & Youth Advocacy Centre. Jolie currently serves as Financial Manager at BGC Leduc, supporting programs that benefit young people and families. Outside of work, they enjoy time with family, creativity, volunteering, and the outdoors.

Sandra Bromley

Emeritus Board Member
Sandra Bromley RCA is a Canadian artist renowned for her anti-war and anti-violence artwork, particularly the Gun Sculpture, co-created with Wallis Kendal. The Gun Sculpture served as the catalyst for the creation of iHuman, and her contributions to the organization are invaluable. Through her artistic vision and commitment to social change, Bromley has helped shape iHuman's mission to empower marginalized youth, integrating creativity and advocacy in the pursuit of healing and community connection.

Lorris Williams

Emeritus Board Member
Lorris Williams is a long-time supporter and advocate for iHuman Youth Society, dedicated to improving the lives of marginalized youth. With a deep commitment to the organization's mission, Lorris has played a crucial role in fundraising efforts and continues to maintain strong connections with iHuman. His ongoing support and advocacy reflect his passion for empowering young people and fostering positive change in the community.