Marcey Amaya
Program Coordinator
Hola! I’m Marcey Amaya, I go by she/her pronouns. I’m a Program Coordinator at the Fed! I’m privileged to say I was born on the unceded Coast Salish lands of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh peoples. My first baby steps were taken in these lands. My mom immigrated here from Pipil/Lenca lands (El Salvador.)
For years I’ve been working in the non-profit sector with organizations serving youth and young adults. Before the Fed I taught social justice and anti-oppression through art, photography, and storytelling in schools. I’m continuing my learnings in anti-oppression by exploring systems change. My work here will focus on program design, curriculum development, accessibility, and facilitation. Reach out to me for all things Youth Retreat related! I hope to amplify youth voices and be an advocate during my time at the Fed. I aim to be a magical guide on the side to the expertise and knowledge of Fed members. Ask me about mycelium, art, gardening, paddle boarding or how my dog is doing!
Cell Phone: 604-355-2530
Email: marcey.amaya@fbcyicn.ca
Lorena Bishop
Executive Director
Hi, I’m Lorena Bishop, the Executive Director (ED) at the Fed.
I grew up on the East Coast on the traditional territory of the Mi’kmaq people. I currently have the privilege of living on the unceded, traditional territory of the Kwikwetlam, Stó:lō, Qayqayt, and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations.
I have lived government care experience in Nova Scotia and have spent over 20 years advocating to help create a better experience for my care siblings.
As the ED, I am responsible for supporting and leading our Fed Family to achieve the goals and plans we create and approve together.
In my free time I love to craft, play board games, garden, and snuggle with my fur babies.
Cell Phone: 778-389-9492
Email: lorena.bishop@fbcyicn.ca
Taylor Burnett
Program Coordinator
Hello! I’m Taylor Burnett, a Program Coordinator at the Fed.
I come from Southwestern Ontario and Montreal, the traditional territory of Anishinaabek, Haudenosaunee, Lūnaapéewak, Attawandaron and Kanien’kehà:ka peoples. The ocean and mountains have lured me to the west coast. Currently, I have the privilege of residing on the traditional and unceded territories of the Coast Salish peoples – Sḵwx̱wú7mesh, Stó:lō and Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh and xʷməθkʷəy̓əm Nations — known colonially as Vancouver. Most often, I can be found rock climbing and hiking with my camera or on my couch playing video games while my body recovers
I hold a BA from McGill University with specialties in Anthropology, Indigenous Studies, and Canadian History. I have had the privilege of working with youth within mental health advocacy, community and workplace programming, as well as frontline support services.
My work has always been focused on promoting personal and community wellness with the guiding principle of self-determination. In my role at the Fed, I work alongside young folks to develop and deliver impactful programming that supports their current needs.
Cell Phone: 604-358-8234
Email: taylor.burnett@fbcyicn.ca
Shannon Dolton
Team Lead & Program Coordinator
Hello! My name is Shannon Dolton, Program Manger at the Fed.
My work is guided by the belief that when given the space, tools and supports – young people in and from care can do anything!!! I say this because I have seen it and continue to witness the resiliency, strength, and magic of this community.
My role at the Fed is to support all of our programs and services.
I am a Queer, intersectional feminist cat mom who likes to think of myself as a grown up with a healthy balance of childlike whimsy and a touch of 80-year-old grandma. I am an avid tea-drinker, reader, unicorn collector and believe in the power of Wonder Woman and words.
Cell Phone: 604-353-3495
Email: shannon.dolton@fbcyicn.ca
Vi Ho
Program Assistant
Hello! My name is Vi, and I am excited to be one of the youth interns!
I was born, raised and am currently living on the traditional land and unceded territories of the QayQayt, xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) and Səl̓ílwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations also known as Vancouver. During my free time I enjoy playing video games, cooking, and trying out new places with my friends!
Currently, I am in my third year of my BA in health sciences alongside minoring in counselling and human development at SFU. I am intending to go into Nursing after my BA. However, within the last year, I’ve had the privilege of connecting with others who have inspired me to switch to a career supporting youth.
Email: vi.ho@fbcyicn.ca
Bailey Ingram-Johnson
Program Coordinator
Hello! My name is Bailey Ingram-Johnson, and I am happy to be a Program Coordinator at the Fed.
I was born in Edmonton, Alberta, and I humbly acknowledge this land as the traditional territories of many First Nations, including the Nehiyaw (Cree), Denesuliné (Dene), Nakota Sioux (Stoney), Anishinaabe (Saulteaux) and Niitsitapi (Blackfoot) people. I currently reside in Victoria, British Columbia, and I am extremely proud to be a guest here on the unceded traditional lands of the Tsawout and Tsartlip people. Although I am new to my journey working in a Youth Network, I have no shortage of passion for the task. As someone who has been in government care since I was 5 years old, I know how valuable a network of support can be and I am honoured to say that I am a part of that. When I graduated from high school and started looking at potential paths my life could take, I kept coming back to one conclusion: Ultimately, I wouldn’t feel fulfilled unless I could make a difference. I am hoping to absorb all that I can in my time at the Fed and use it to further my interests in social work, sustainability, and cultural competency.
If I am not working (my dream job) then I am likely crafting, foraging, cooking or spending time with my Fiancé, our two cats, and a bearded dragon.
Cell Phone: 778-951-3401
Email: bailey.ingramjohnson@fbcyicn.ca
Kate Kovaleva
Communications Coordinator
(currently on leave)
Hi! My name is Kate Kovaleva (She/Her). I currently live and work on the unceded Coast Salish lands of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh peoples. At the Fed, I support events and programs for youth in care, and work to increase the Fed’s visibility in the community. I write and edit communications (social media posts, reports and website copy) to make sure young people know about and can access opportunities that they are interested in.
Previously, I worked in health research, helping to promote the health and well-being of youth across BC, as well as in marketing communications. I enjoy reading, calligraphy, road trips, painting and podcasts. I’m thrilled to be learning and connecting with others as part of a team that strives to make a positive impact. Follow the Fed on social media #FedFamilyBC
Cell Phone: 778-951-3401
Email: kate.kovaleva@fbcyicn.ca
Maya Laquian
Program Coordinator
Hi! My name is Maya Laquian (she/her) and I’m one of the Program Coordinators at the Fed.
As a settler with mixed Filipino/British ancestry, I’ve had the privilege to live and grow on the unceded lands of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, often known as Vancouver, for most of my life. Having spent much of my childhood outside, I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to live on these beautiful lands and to continue to enjoy nature with friends and family. Outside of work, I can often be found frolicking in the snow, lizarding (the art of reading books while lying on warm rocks in the sun), and taking (too) many photos of my pets.
Previously, I worked in different non-profits supporting children/youth to develop their social-emotional, leadership, and literacy skills. Most recently, I worked as a legal advocate supporting Black, Indigenous, and Women of Colour who were facing criminal charges in the Downtown Eastside. My educational background is in Gender Studies and Political Science – I’m passionate about reducing systemic barriers youth in/from care experience and applying an intersectional feminist lens to advocacy to help young people flourish and achieve their goals. My work at the Fed will primarily focus on running Youth Retreats, Fed Family Celebrations, and Fed Family Chats via Fed Connects. I look forward to meeting you soon!
Cell Phone: 778-956-3237
Email: maya.laquian@fbcyicn.ca
Marissa Lear
Program Assistant
Hi! My name is Marissa Lear, and I am one of the Program Assistants at the Fed.
I have had the privilege of being born and raised on the unceded, traditional territory of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh people, in the city of Vancouver. As someone with lived care experience, working with the Fed inspires me to be the person I wish I had when I was going through that time in my life. Young people can do anything they set their mind to and working here has shown me just that.
I am a current student at UBC working towards my BSc in Neuroscience with a minor in Sociology. Learning about how trauma impacts the brain fascinates me and I hope to put my education to use as I pursue a career in law, advocating for those in need.
Outside of work and school, I love spending time with my family, friends, and cats, dancing, singing, and finding fun ways to exercise!
Cell Phone:
Email: marissa.lear@fbcyicn.ca
Shanti MacFronton
Director of Programs and Services
Hello! I’m Shanti MacFronton (she/her) and I work behind the scenes to support and develop our programs and services at the Fed.
I studied English and Communications at Simon Fraser University and have worked at youth-driven organizations for the past 15 years in both BC and Ontario. I am continually impressed by young peoples’ strength, passion, creativity, and dedication to building a better world. I care deeply about championing young peoples’ voices and aim to work in partnership with youth, ensuring they have a seat at the decision-making table.
I grew up in a small community in BC, but now I live with my family in Tkaronto, or Toronto, on the traditional territories of the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishnaabe, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee, and the Wendat peoples.
When I’m not working, I enjoy getting crafty, cooking, baking, gardening, traveling, and being outdoors. I’ve got a partner, and two awesome kiddos, who keep me smiling (and on my toes) everyday!
Cell Phone: 778-233-7442
Email: shanti.macfronton@fbcyicn.ca
Leah Mair
Director of Operations
Hello! I’m Leah Mair, Director of Operations at the Fed. My pronouns are she/her and I am grateful to live, work and play on the traditional land and unceded territories of the QayQayt, xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) and Səl̓ílwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations also known as Vancouver.
I grew up in the UK and moved to Canada in 2023. I enjoy hiking and exploring the beautiful coastlines and mountains in BC.
I hold a BA in History from Newcastle University, and an MA in European Studies from the University of Amsterdam. I have over 7 years of experience working within mental health and social services. My work has been in program design, development, and implementation; project management; and capacity building. My role at the Fed involves ensuring we have the resources and processes we need to achieve our goals.
Throughout my career I have had the pleasure of working directly with young people, who have inspired me with their strength, positivity, and passion. I feel honored to have the opportunity to work and learn together with colleagues and young people at the Fed, to help improve the lives of young people in and from care.
Cell Phone: 604-358-8234
Email: leah.mair@fbcyicn.ca
Athena Nixson
Practicum Student
Hi, I’m Athena Nixson, my pronouns are they/them/theirs, and I am a Practicum Student.
I have the privilege and honour of living, working, and studying on the unceded territories of the Qayqayt, sq̓əc̓iy̓aɁɬ təməxʷ (Katzie), sc̓əwaθenaɁɬ təməxʷ (Tsawwassen), Kwikwetlem, səl̓ilwətaɁɬ təməxʷ (Tsleil-Waututh), S’ólh Téméxw (Stó:lō), Kwantlen, Stz’uminus, šxʷməθkʷəy̓əmaɁɬ təməxʷ (Musqueam), and Hul’qumi’num Treaty Group—unceded land which is colonially known as New Westminster.
I have had the privilege of working alongside youth at drop-in centers, shelters, life skills and employment programs. My passion has always been assisting young people in finding resources, stability, advocacy, community, and their own powerful voice.
I have a Diploma in Social Sciences (my focus is psychology, Indigenous studies, and gender studies), and am in my fourth year of a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work. When I’m not working, I’m usually watching horror movies or true crime documentaries, playing video games, writing my horror movie script, getting yelled at by or cuddling with my cat Milo, or getting gothed up.
Email: practicum@fbcyicn.ca
Rya Owen
Communications Assistant
Hello! My name is Rya Owen and I’m a Communications Assistant here at the Fed!
I have lived all over the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley and am currently privileged to reside and work on the traditional unceded lands of the Coast Salish, Stó꞉lō, Stz’uminus, and Hul’qumi’num peoples, in the city of Agassiz, BC. Living in this area is a blessing as I am surrounded by lakes, mountains, and plenty of trails, parks, and wooded areas to explore. I love to hike, swim, and take photos of my travels around the Valley and Okanagan, which I visit frequently. When I’m not working, you can find me out in nature or snuggling on the couch with my pup and partner.
My role at the Fed is to help with communications efforts, including Power Pages, for all of you to enjoy! You’ll see me at events, conferences, retreats, and other activities the Fed offers. I love working to help others and support them on their own individual journeys!
Email: rya.owen@fbcyicn.ca
Preeti Prasad
Operations Manager
Hi! I’m Preeti Prasad, the Operations Manager at the Fed.
I was born, raised and continue to have the privilege and honour of living on the traditional and unceded territories of the Coast Salish Peoples, specifically the territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) Nation, Kwantlen First Nation, Semiahmoo, Tsawwassen First Nation, Katzie First Nation, Kwikwetlem First Nation, Qayqayt First Nation, and Səl̓ílwətaɬ (Tsleil Waututh) Nation, colonially known as Surrey.
In my role at the Fed, I’m usually behind the scenes supporting the Fed Team in their amazing work with young people and in delivering awesome programs. What continually guides my work is an understanding that everything I do in whatever role I take on is in the best interest and to the benefit of the young people I work and interact with.
I hold a Diploma in Youth Justice and a BA in Criminology. When I haven’t caught the travel bug, I’m usually reading (fantasy and true crime are my faves), crafting, video gaming or taking my puppers on a long walk.
Cell Phone: 604-353-3508
Email: preeti.prasad@fbcyicn.ca
Dani Sunshine
Program Assistant
Hello my name is Dani, full name Daniell Sunshine, and I am a Program Assistant at the Fed.
I want to acknowledge and thank my Indigenous ancestors and hosts for allowing me to reside on the unceded and traditional territories of the QayQayt, xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) and Səl̓ílwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, also colonially recognized as Vancouver, BC.
My journey began on the territories of the nêhiyawak (Cree), Anihšināpēk (Saulteaux), Dakota, Lakota, and Nakoda, and the homeland of the Métis/Michif Nation, also colonially recognized as Regina, SK.
I am an Anihšināpēk (Saulteaux) Interdisciplinary Poet, Public Speaker, Advocate and Facilitator. I am honoured and grateful to work through Youth Advisory Committees with the Saskatchewan’s Advocate Office and the opportunities to connect with the Adoption Council of Canada and attend panel presentations, consultation meetings and dedicating my time to showcase the inauthenticity of the child welfare system through experiences, storytelling and drawing.
I am very passionate about this work and am very humble and grateful to be a part of the Fed and to work closely with peers and mentors and other youth and continue making a positive change for the youth and children in and out of care.
“My soul reverberates with the vigorous flame of the matriarchs who fought for my existence”
Email: dani.sunshine@fbcyicn.ca
Michelle Wojciechowski
Administrative Assistant
Hi, my name is Michelle. I am the Administrative Assistant at the Fed. I am half Filipino and half Polish! I was born and am currently living on the traditional land and unceded territories of the QayQayt, xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) and Səl̓ílwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations also known as Vancouver. I also lived in Burnaby up until I was 17. It is an honor to be working here at the Fed on the traditional and unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Squamish, Tsleil-Waututh and Qayqayt Nations now known as New Westminster.
I am on a journey to help youth in and from care in hopes of making a difference in any capacity that I can and be a lifelong advocate. As an individual from care, I understand the need for support and the power behind support and community. I feel strongly that youth in and from care have so much to offer to this world and embody the strength, resilience and potential to not only accomplish all their hopes and dreams but to make a positive impact.
I hold a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of British Columbia. In addition to my passion for supporting youth in and from care, I love science, I am passionate about medicine and improving healthcare. In my free time, I enjoy going to the gym, cooking, catching up with friends, trying new food and cafe spots.
I am really looking forward to being part of this team, to working alongside such an amazing community and hopefully making a positive impact.