Meet the Team
We are a 100% volunteer-run grassroots non-profit organization. Our team of over 30 passionate and dedicated volunteers comprises eight teams: Operations, Communications, Support + Resources, Fundraising, Finance, App Development, Events and Education.
Each team is composed of a director, team lead, and volunteers. Read more about our Executives, Directors and Team Leads below:
Ilia Fernandez
Founder/CEO
Hi, my name is Ilia (pronounced Ee-li-ah), and I go by they/them/she/her. As the MHS Victoria enters its 8th year, I feel confident that we have found our footing in the community. As a grassroots nonprofit that’s managed to operate solely through volunteers, I’m amazed at the work we’ve done so far. That said, I know we have a long ways to go and I’m so excited to be working with this amazing group of humans to keep growing the MHS to better support those living in Greater Victoria.
Karen Wong
Board Secretary
Hi! I’m Karen (she/her), and I’m the Secretary at MHS. I joined the team in May 2025 and bring over a decade of experience in non profit coordination, executive support and project management—mostly in the healthcare, education, sustainability and animal welfare sectors.
I’m passionate about building strong, supportive systems behind the scenes so that meaningful work can thrive. Being part of a community centered team like MHS really aligns with my values, and I’m so grateful to contribute to a mission that prioritizes mental health, inclusion and care.
When I’m not organizing behind the scenes, you can find me scuba diving, training in Muay Thai or enjoying long bike rides outdoors!
Michaela Segreto
Peer Support Team Lead | Peer Support Caller
Hi all, I’m Michaela and I have been with the MHS for almost 3 years now! I am currently the Team Lead for the Peer Support team, where we have been working on expanding our team and adjusting our program to be more efficient. This organization has been an incredible learning experience, and I am incredibly grateful for all the people I have met and new things I have learned during my time here.
Preeti Sharma
Director of Community Engagement and Outreach
I’m happy to be joining the organization and to be working with such a thoughtful and dedicated team. I’ve spent the last 15 years as a journalist, and I’ve always been drawn to human-interest stories—listening to people, understanding their experiences, and sharing stories that matter. Helping people has always been at the center of my work, and it’s where I feel most fulfilled. I truly believe in the importance of mental health education and creating spaces where individuals and communities feel seen, supported, and informed. I’m grateful to be part of work that reaches people in meaningful ways.
Emma Waldock
President
Hi, I’m Emma (she/her), and I’m the President of the MHS! I have been with MHS since December 2021 and have so enjoyed being a part of such a wonderful organization and working with a truly amazing team of gifted people. I deeply believe in the importance of mental health education for communities and individuals, and am so grateful to be able to work towards reaching more people and spaces this year!
Farhad Poordakan
Director of Finance
Hi!
My name is Farhad (he/him), and I am the Director of Finance at MHS!
I joined this amazing team in July 2025 and I am mainly responsible for finance team and making sure that financial tasks are taken care of! I bring 4 years of Accounting/bookkeeping experience and deeply believe in improving mental health education in Greater Victoria. In my free time, I like travelling, gardening, and camping.
Shawn Chand
Director of Operations
Hey there! I'm Shawn (He/Him/They) —a lover of architecture, technology, and advocate for youth mental health. Design and innovation run through my veins, as I strive to create inspiring spaces for the world. Supporting the well-being of our youth is my driving force, and I believe laughter is a powerful remedy. Brace yourself; I've got dad jokes to spare! With a blend of expertise, empathy, and humor, I'm here to make a positive impact. Let's build a world where creativity and mental health flourish together.
Spencer Pickles
Director of Communications
I’m very excited to help spread the word about all the excellent work that the MHS is doing in our community. I’ve been living in Victoria for over ten years, working in creative communications for a variety of different organizations. I’m making it my mission to help tell the story of the MHS and all the passionate people who give their time to make it a reality.
Tereza Belanger
Vice President
Hi! My name is Tereza (she/her) and I’m the Vice President of the MHS! I’ve been with the team since Nov 2020 and am primarily responsible for volunteer recruitment & management. In my free time, I love travelling, reading, live music, cafe-hopping, & spending quality time with loved ones! Mental health advocacy & accessibility is so meaningful to me, and I’m beyond grateful to be a part of this wonderful organization. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for the MHS!! <3
Shane Steinke
Director of Peer Support and Resources
Hey! My name is Shane and I’m the Director of Resources and Peer Support. I recently finished my bachelor’s degree in psychology and I’m currently working with youth, mainly focused on food security. This year I’m looking forward to reaching more people and communities and continuing to spread mental health support with the amazing people that make up this organization!
Prasidha Parasuraman
Director of Fundraising
Hello, I’m Prasidha, the new Director of Fundraising at MHS. I graduated in 2023 with a BSc double major in Psychology and Philosophy, and since then have been eager to work in the mental health space in ways that feel meaningful and impactful. I’m excited to be part of the MHS community and look forward to supporting the organization’s fundraising efforts as we continue moving toward greater mental health equity through resource awareness!
Vacant
Director of Education