Our Team

Hisha has five years of experience in nonprofit organizations focused on community and youth development. With a background in public administration and policy, she brings an understanding of systemic issues to her work, enabling her to identify and address community needs. Committed to promoting menstrual equity, Hisha collaborates with stakeholders to ensure access to period products for those in need.

Jana always dreamt of leading a charity and in 2017, that dream became a reality when she founded The Period Purse. Since winning multiple awards, she now works part time with TPP in “her free time” and when she is not talking about periods, Jana works full time as an Education Consultant in Indigenous Education. She is a mother of two and lives with her family in Toronto, and a Band member of Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory.

Kelisha Layne is a dedicated social worker with over a decade of non-profit experience. She champions anti-oppression, anti-racism, and inclusivity and is passionate about menstrual health and education. Her work dismantles systemic barriers and advocates for marginalized communities, especially children and youth.

Kristy is passionate about nonprofits and has spent three decades supporting organizations across North America. She helps organizations align their goals to be inclusive of the range of volunteer skills and experiences. Kristy holds a PhD from the University of Leicester and is a published author. Kristy, husband Chris, and their pup Izzy take regular road trips to find the next adventure and small museums along the way.

Reid holds a Bachelor's degree in Child and Youth Care from Humber College, where they graduated with honours. They have experience working with diverse youth in various settings, such as schools, community centers, and non-profit organizations. Reid has a proven track record in developing and implementing programs that promote positive youth development, resilience, and social inclusion.

Shamira is an enthusiastic arts and administrative professional with over two decades of experience. Starting their journey in Edmonton, AB, they have played a pivotal role in ensuring the success of numerous large-scale festivals. Shamira excels in financial management and is currently pursuing an Advanced Diploma in Accounting & Finance at Seneca Polytechnic. Their passion lies in advancing equity and ensuring fair and inclusive practices for all.

Victoria joined The Period Purse in 2023 as an Education Facilitator. She has ample experience with facilitation in the non-profit sector. Moving from Nova Scotia to study Psychology and Neuroscience at Dalhousie University, she now calls Halifax home. As a proud French Canadian, Victoria is thrilled to work with TPP to expand the French program and spread our message to francophone communities across the country to help achieve menstrual equity for all.

Lieran has extensive experience working in the not-for-profit sector, focusing on women’s rights and gender justice. She is skilled in strategic planning, governance, fund development and programming. Lieran holds a degree in Gender Studies and a Master’s in Public Administration.

Nikita is a science enthusiast at heart with the mission to evolve Canada's healthcare system. She currently works in healthcare consulting for an Ontario health system, where she helps drive strategy for the +900 bed hospital. She enjoys learning about new technologies, analyzing problems and data, while communicating her findings and insights to various stakeholders.

Dena is a lawyer with more than a decade of experience before appellate courts, and an academic background in gender studies and equity issues.  Her current practice sits at the intersection between criminal law and forensic mental health policy, with a secondary focus on sexual and gender-based violence.

Natasha Ajibolade (née Nguyen) is a passionate Ontario Certified Teacher and a qualified principal, with a Masters Degree in Education and a background in finance. Her journey at The Period Purse began with volunteering on the DEI Committee. As an Ecuadorian-Vietnamese, fluent in multiple languages, she excels in building relationships and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. She enjoys leveraging her diverse skill set to champion nonprofit initiatives.

Shaunna Kelly is Anishinaabe/Canadian-Irish and is a criminal defense lawyer focused on representing Indigenous people in Toronto. She provides consultation services for those who wish to improve service delivery to Indigenous clients within the Criminal Justice system. She is the recipient of the Advocacy Award in recognition of her fearless advocacy and work with Indigenous Clients, awarded by the Law and Mental Disorder Association.