Our Team

Akosua is the Executive Director of First Work. Prior to joining the organization, Akosua worked as a senior public affairs professional, primarily focused on policy affecting marginalized communities and youth. During her tenure with the Provincial Minister of Children and Youth Services, Akosua led the Youth Justice and Youth Opportunity policy and also worked directly with multiple agencies, as well as frontline staff, to advocate for marginalized youth.

As a senior policy advisor with the Provincial Minister of Finance, Akosua effectively advised on policy and legislation spanning a diverse portfolio, including labour, children and youth services, community and social services, correctional services, and Indigenous relations. With over six years of experience in government, combined with seven years as the board representative for the Region of Peel Women’s Centre – Interim Place, Akosua is an established driver of effective policy-making, communications, public and government affairs, and community engagement.

Akosua currently sits on the board of the Canadian Coalition of Community-Based Employability Training , MabelleArts, and Goodwill Amity.

Ashley is the Operations Coordinator and Executive Assistant at First Work. She recently graduated from York University with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Previously, Ashley worked for Canada’s Wonderland as the Merchandise Operations Supervisor. During her time there, she worked with youth while also gaining administrative and management skills. Ashley’s background in leadership roles and involvement with youth has grown into an interest in helping young people enter the workforce. She looks forward to developing her knowledge in the non-profit sector and field of youth employment. When she is not working, Ashley likes to spend her free time watching movies, listening to music, and practising the ukulele.

Kathleen is the Membership and Programs Manager at First Work and has been with First Work since June 2021. Kathleen has experience working in non-profit organizations in volunteer management, outreach, intakes, events, and projects with youth, seniors, and people with disabilities. Before First Work, she worked at the Canadian Council on Rehabilitation and Work as an Employment Facilitator, supporting job seekers with disabilities with accommodation planning, training opportunities, and job search and retention supports. Kathleen is passionate about advocating for others and ensuring everyone has equal workplace opportunities. Kathleen grew up near Crystal Beach, so she has a deep love of beaches, water, and swimming. You can find her at the beach on her days off in the summer!

Samira is the Digital Lead at First Work, bringing her passion for creating meaningful change for marginalized youth to all her work. She holds over a decade of experience in web development and digital engagement, previously working in the non-profit and private sectors as a freelancer for organizations both large and small. Samira manages the design of First Work’s social media platforms and websites. She also manages the development of digital media campaigns, conference materials, and weekly member updates.

Dr. Syed Shah has been the Lead Researcher at First Work since February 2022. He has worked in the research field for more than two decades, initially conducting academic research on politics and international relations in Germany and currently conducting social and public policy research in Canada. At First Work, Syed develops grant proposals, analyzes labour market data, conducts project evaluations, and writes reports. For him, research is more than collecting data; it is about telling the stories behind the numbers to understand labour market dynamics and the impact of workforce development policies. He is passionate about proposing data-informed solutions and evidence-based strategies for creating inclusive and equitable communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Outside of work, Syed enjoys driving, travelling, cooking, and photography.

As Finance Lead at First Work, Arpita Sharma is responsible for ensuring organizational effectiveness through strategic financial leadership. A CPA with nearly six years of audit experience, she has worked with a diverse range of companies across various industries, including not-for-profits. Arpita brings strong analytical skills, a forward-thinking mindset, and a problem-solving approach to her role. Holding a master’s degree in accounting from the University of Waterloo, she is recognized for her collaborative leadership and ability to navigate complex financial challenges. Passionate about purpose-driven work, Arpita joined First Work to align financial strategy with meaningful social impact.

Melwyn Dcosta is the Senior Projects Consultant at First Work.

Ikram is the Event and Training Lead at First Work. She has been with First Work since 2021, leading events and member trainings. She is passionate about education, both learning and facilitating learning for others. She is also passionate about using her lived experiences to connect with and support people. In her free time, Ikram enjoys reading, watching shows and movies, and taking road trips.

Mahesha is the Outreach & Project Coordinator at First Work. She joined the organization in September 2022 as a Community Outreach Coordinator after receiving her bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Toronto Metropolitan University. With her experience in youth work, Mahesha is passionate about advocating for marginalized youth. Outside of work, she enjoys collecting vinyl records and listening to music.

Amma is the Finance and Administration Coordinator at First Work, joining the team in May 2022. With experience in the security and logistics industry, Amma brings years of finance and operations management experience. Most recently, Amma journeyed into self-employment, starting her own cosmetics business as an artist and educator. In joining First Work, Amma maintains her entrepreneurial spirit while revisiting her experience in business fundamentals.

Storyteller and strategist, shaping influential narratives in workforce development. With a consistent voice that strengthens branding and builds strong relationships, Gabriel leverages sharp political acumen and stakeholder insights to drive tangible, data-driven outcomes that improve the lives of Ontarians.

Joyce Ojugbeli is the Project Administration Officer at First Work, bringing experience in project coordination, administrative support, and youth-focused community work. With leadership experience across York University student organizations, Joyce approaches her work with strong organization, clear communication, and an equity-centered lens. Her most relevant experience includes serving as Administration and Finance Coordinator for the Pan-Asian Nursing Alliance at York and Vice-President of the Canadian Black Nurses Alliance’s York Chapter. Before joining First Work, Joyce was a Notetaker for the Student Accessibility Centre. Currently, she is completing her BScN Specialized Honours in Nursing at York University.

Joel Adegboye is a digital creator and emerging marketing professional with a passion for storytelling, content creation, and using digital platforms to connect people and ideas. With experience in visual media, photography, videography, and creative technology, Joel brings a unique blend of creativity and strategy to digital communications. He is passionate about building engaging content, strengthening brand presence, and exploring innovative ways to use digital tools to create meaningful impact.

Teresa Therrien is the Social Media Coordinator at First Work. Teresa supports the organization’s digital communications by developing engaging social media content, promoting programs and events, and helping strengthen First Work’s online presence. She brings creativity, attention to detail, and a strong interest in using digital storytelling to connect audiences with meaningful information and opportunities.