About Ethnic Mosaic Alliance

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 A dedicated community leader with deep roots and unwavering commitment. Through tireless volunteer efforts and entrepreneurial spirit, Shelley has become a proud champion of the South East Asian cultural spirit. Her passion for diversity and community development align seamlessly with Ethnic Mosaic Alliance’s vision for a multicultural center in Simcoe County. Join us in celebrating Shelley's journey as she leads us with her dedicated board towards a more inclusive and vibrant future. 

Melissa is oversees newcomer employment services programming in Simcoe County and sits on many committees with the Simcoe County Local Immigration Partnership. She prides herself on creating opportunities for newcomers as they arrive and settle in the area. Melissa is of Hungarian, English and Scottish heritage.

Gretel is a dedicated member of the Collingwood community since 2016, has been an invaluable advocate for newcomers. Through her tireless efforts, she established a robust support network, aiding newcomers in navigating the challenges of settling in Canada. Presently, Gretel continues her impactful work at Tracks Employment, where she remains a steadfast ally, regularly assisting and guiding newcomers in their journey.

 Ian was a long-time member of the Local Immigration Partnership in Simcoe County and actively involved in The Rotary Club of Barrie for the past 26 years. He is passionate about supporting organizations and groups aimed at fostering diverse communities. Ian is a second generation Canadian with Czech and Scottish heritage. 

When Samira and her family moved to Barrie a few years ago, she quickly set out to connect and unite Persians within the community. She is the founder of the Barrie Persian Association which works hard to bring Persian events into the cultural consciousness of our broader community. Samira is a dynamo event organizer and an ambassador for her ethno-cultural group.

Regarding this upcoming year and EMA’s mission of building a multicultural centre, she remarks:

A multicultural centre in Simcoe County is crucial for fostering diversity and inclusion within the community. It provides a welcoming space where immigrants can connect, share their cultures, and integrate into their new surroundings. This centre serves as a hub for cultural exchange, promoting understanding, tolerance, and a sense of belonging among residents, ultimately enriching the entire community's social fabric.

Dr. Claudine Cousins is the Chief Executive Officer of Empower Simcoe, a human services organization in the broader health sector, and part-time teacher in the School of Business at Georgian College. Dr. Cousins has over twenty-five years of leadership experience with various Ministries within the Ontario Public Service and the not-for-profit and profit sectors, including banking and investment. 

Dr. Cousins holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management specializing in Human Resources, a Masters of Arts Degree in Leadership, a Post Graduate Certificate in Public Relations and, a Doctorate in Health Sciences.  She has a drive and passion for social justice issues and its link to business outcomes, and advocates for equity, diversity and inclusion while sharing her experiences through speaking engagements, mentoring, volunteering, and championing women.