Meet Our Volunteer Facilitators

Meet Our Volunteers

Get to know our wonderful team of volunteers.

Rebecca A.

I have been volunteering for the CFGH since August 2023. In my time here, I have helped facilitate various loss groups and have recently begun doing one-on-one peer support calls. I feel a deep sense of appreciation for all the individuals who have shown the strength to be vulnerable in navigating their grief journeys. It has been such an enriching and meaningful experience to engage with people about their losses in such a warm and welcoming environment.

I was particularly drawn to the CFGH for its safe space and efforts to destigmatize grief. After experiencing loss, I felt myself limiting my grief to the confines of what I thought was acceptable. I am grateful to be part of an organization that gives individuals the space to grieve on their terms in an unconditionally supportive manner.

I am currently entering my last year of a BA in Psychology at York University. I hope to use the knowledge and insight I have gained in my time volunteering here to help others in my pursuit of becoming a psychotherapist.

Amanda Y.

I've been facilitating groups with CFGH since March 2023 and it's been amazing. After losing my dad to cancer at a young age, the bereavement support I received transformed my grief journey, which led me to use my experience and facilitate support groups myself. It is truly a privilege for me to hold space for others to share their experiences and process their losses. My favourite thing about facilitating groups is supporting others to connect with each other and build community with people going through similar things.

Haider A.

I lost grandpa at a young age due to a failed surgery and a mentor during my final year of university due to suicide. Both losses were complex in their own ways but motivated me to make an impact within my own community back home.

In terms of facilitation, I facilitate all kinds of groups. I started off doing child loss group and I’m currently focused on leading groups around overdose and suicide. Regardless of the group, I’m always moved each persons experience and grief journey.

My time as a facilitator has encouraged me to push my limits and do as much as I can to support people. Some of which entail being a crisis responder for Kids Help Phone, joining the board as a general board member, advancing my way up to Vice-Chair, and being apart of the fundraising committee to ensure we can continue to provide free grief services for those who need it most.

My education background consists of a health science degree from the University of Ottawa. During my time, I worked in various labs, some of which focused on cancer research and AI implementation within surgical procedures.

Sujan A.

My name is Sujan Ali and I have been a volunteer with the Centre for Grief and Healing (CFGH) since April 2023.

CFGH was a part of my grief journey after my brother passed on 3 years ago. It was a space where I could speak openly about my grief and loss. As a facilitator at CFGH, I get to facilitate various grief support groups and meet participants at various stages of their grief journeys, which in turn, helps me continue to process my own grief. In addition to volunteering with CFGH, I was certified by The Institute of Professional Grief Coaching (IOPGC) in 2022.

I also graduated from the University of Toronto in 2008 and I am currently employed as an Immigration Consultant after working in the immigration sector in Toronto for the past 12 years.

In my spare time, I write grief poetry, do yoga regularly and enjoy spending time with my family, friends and two cats.

Shyika M.

I briefly started accessing services through Centre for Grief and Healing (BFO-H/P) back in 2015 when my maternal great-grandmother "Mom" died of cancer.

In 2020 I had lost my new partner Matthew and my maternal great-grandfather "Gramps". I reconnected with Centre for Grief and Healing (BFO-H/P) where I received one-on-one peer support and participated in the weekly partner loss groups. I have learned that grief is a unique experience for every individual.

I honour my loved ones by supporting other grievers. I enjoy facilitating groups because I understand that it is a safe space for grievers to share, connect, and be validated. I recognise that sometimes we may not always feel these spaces are accessible in our personal/day to day life. I am passionate about grief, because for me, grief is still love.

I have plans of obtaining a Masters Degree in Social Work, I hope to one day teach college students.

Jacky.J

After almost ten years in capital markets, I made the leap to follow my passion for mental health, currently pursuing further education with the aim of becoming a clinical psychologist.

I was particularly drawn to CFGH's commitment to providing a safe and supportive environment for individuals coping with loss and destigmatizing grief through open discussion and community events.

I'm grateful for the opportunity to contribute to CFGH's mission, particularly to the bereaved individuals who have graciously allowed me to accompany them on their journey through grief. They've taught me invaluable lessons through their resilience and vulnerability.

Aisha.G

I have been volunteering with CFGH since October 2024. This experience has helped me grow as an individual and discover my passion for supporting others through difficult times. After losing my grandfather to COVID-19 in 2020, I witnessed the emotional impact it had on my father, my family, and myself. Watching my father endure such a tough time and processing that grief made me realize how important emotional support and healing are; it inspired my commitment to helping others navigate similar challenges.

I am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Psychology at York University and hold a Social Service Worker Diploma from Sheridan College. I’m committed to using both my education and lived experience to support individuals and communities on their healing journeys.

Outside of volunteering and facilitation, I enjoy long-distance running and spending time at the gym, it keeps me grounded and energized to continue the work I care deeply about.

Erica R.

Navigating the twists and turns of life I have come to understand the profound impact of loss in its various forms. My journey has been shaped by the challenges of being diagnosed at age 29 with a chronic disease, the sorrow of losing a cherished mother-in-law, and the heartache of losing beloved animal companions. Through these experiences, I have learned the depths of grief and the resilience of the human spirit.

My journey into volunteering began as a means of transforming my own pain into purpose. After witnessing the profound impact of support groups and compassionate guidance, I felt compelled to give back. Whether through offering a listening ear or sharing insights gained from my own experiences, I am committed to fostering healing and connection in the lives of others.

I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to navigate the complexities of grief with courage, resilience, and hope alongside you.

Thusheharan P.

Hello, my name is Thusheharan, but you can call me Thushe for short. I am a recent psychology graduate from the University of Toronto.

I have been very passionate about grief work since the passing of my dad back in 2023 due to cancer. This personal experience has really opened up my eyes to the harsh reality of life - death is inevitable, and we have no choice but to face it at some point. Unfortunately, the hardest part is acceptance. Our minds cannot easily accept that a person we love is no longer physically present.

As a group facilitator, I would really like to help people process their grief according to their own pace and slowly move towards acceptance regarding their loss. Grief is a messy process and I want to support our group members through every stage of their grief journey as much as I can.

Janice B.

I’ve been involved with the Centre for Grief and Healing for more than five years. I was drawn to the charity after suffering pregnancy loss.

I make my home in Oakville. I have co-facilitated several support groups, including mixed loss, suicide loss, a seniors’ group and child loss groups.

I have also been active in several one to ones with various clients and with on-site support groups.

I find fulfilment helping others navigate through their complicated grief journeys. Volunteering gives me a sense of purpose and new meaning to my children’s lives that were lost.

Noa T.

With a compassionate heart and a dedication to aiding individuals in their journey through grief, I am driven to serve as a facilitator at the Center for Grief and Healing. Rooted in a profound desire to provide solace and support to those navigating the challenging terrain of loss, I bring to this centre a blend of empathetic understanding and tender awareness.

My educational background in psychology and personal journey with grief equips me with a deep understanding of human emotions, coping mechanisms, and the intricate dynamics of grief. Armed with this knowledge, I am committed to providing support tailored to the unique needs of each individual. Whether its navigating the stages of grief, managing overwhelming emotions, or finding meaning in the midst of loss, I strive to provide a safe and nurturing
environment where healing can flourish. In these moments of connection and vulnerability, profound healing often takes place, fostering a sense of community and belonging amidst the pain.

As a facilitator, my purpose is not only to accompany others on their grief journey but also to empower them to find hope and renewal amidst the darkness. Each session is an opportunity to honor the memories of those we have lost, celebrate the resilience of the human spirit, and embrace the healing power of connection.

Michael D.

Currently, I enjoy various volunteering roles as well as providing life coaching sessions for individuals. My losses include both parents and some dear friends.

I have facilitated groups for many years and during COVID, I completed courses in facilitating grief groups and individual peer support sessions (these are based on the work of Alan Wolfelt).

Soon after, I was introduced to BFO HP and have valued the opportunity to use the skills I learned. The Grief groups and the Individual Peer Support sessions at BFO offer such a safe space for anyone who is grieving after a loss.

The inclusive and caring culture in this organization are a huge motivator in continuing my volunteering here.

Malvika S.

Hi, my name is Malvika. I started volunteering at the Center for Grief and Healing in the summer of 2024. Having experienced loss myself, I understand how challenging it can be to navigate grief, and I am passionate about helping others through this journey. Volunteering at CFGH is important to me because I want to create a safe and compassionate space where people can express their emotions, find support, and heal at their own pace.I believe in the power of community and empathy in healing, and I'm dedicated to contributing to an environment where everyone feels heard and understood. At CFGH, my goal is to support various programs that provide emotional and practical support to individuals dealing with loss. I am constantly learning from the incredible people I meet here, and I hope to continue growing alongside them as we all navigate the complexities of grief together.

Thusheharan P.

Hello, my name is Thusheharan, but you can call me Thushe for short. I am a recent psychology graduate from the University of Toronto.

Christine

My PhD is in psychology.

I have experienced many losses, one of which changed the trajectory of my life. I would describe this experience as life before this event and after.

It is my hope that by facilitating these groups, I can continue the conversation about death and bring healing to others as well as myself.

Cara.M

My name is Cara Manolache. I am a York University psychology graduate and this upcoming fall I am beginning my masters degree in psychology.

My passions in psychology include development, relationship and group dynamics, nature, evolution, culture and society. I was born and raised in the GTA and I have always had a passion for helping others and understanding different peoples unique experiences and perspectives.

On my free time, I enjoy making visual art, creating and listening to good music, feeding the birds, petting peoples dogs, riding one-wheeled vehicles and cracking silly puns. I make crepes on my free time and I work part time as a baker and a customer service representative.

My goal as a group facilitator is to help and reassure those who are struggling with the process of grief, since it can look different for everyone.

Malvika S.

Hi, my name is Malvika. I started volunteering at the Center for Grief and Healing in the summer of 2024. Having experienced loss myself, I understand how challenging it can be to navigate grief, and I am passionate about helping others through this journey. Volunteering at CFGH is important to me because I want to create a safe and compassionate space where people can express their emotions, find support, and heal at their own pace.

I believe in the power of community and empathy in healing, and I'm dedicated to contributing to an environment where everyone feels heard and understood. At CFGH, my goal is to support various programs that provide emotional and practical support to individuals dealing with loss. I am constantly learning from the incredible people I meet here, and I hope to continue growing alongside them as we all navigate the complexities of grief together.

Norma F.

Shaped by the profound experience of losing loved ones, I’ve come to understand life through a lens of depth, resilience, and compassion. Grief has been both a teacher and a mirror—revealing strengths I didn’t know I had and the values that truly matter. This journey has redefined my identity, shifted my priorities, and deepened my empathy for others navigating their own losses.

Through this transformation, I’ve learned to embrace presence over perfection, connection over convenience, and meaning over noise. I carry forward the legacy of those I’ve lost by living with intention—honoring their memory in the way I show up for others and for myself. Whether through quiet reflection or active support, I strive to turn pain into purpose and loss into love that endures.

My role as a volunteer grief facilitator, supported by my experience as an educator, psychotherapist, and fellow human, provides me with the wisdom to listen with an open heart as you share your lived experiences. In turn, I will be present with the empathy and compassion you deserve. I look forward to being with you—online or in person—in a future group session.

Tamzin S.

I've been volunteering with the Center for Grief & Healing (BFO-H/P) since May 2024. My journey with grief began early in life, as I experienced the loss of several close family members to cancer and a dear friend to suicide. These profound losses have greatly influenced who I am, shaping my values and nurturing a deep empathy for those navigating their own grief journeys. As a new volunteer, I primarily support the mixed loss group, though I am eager to extend my time wherever needed, including one-on-one support and participation in workshops and events.

My initial involvement with the Center came through a conversation with a client at my job as a hairstylist, where I've been working for over 8 years. While I originally sought this role as a way to gain experience in mental health support, it has quickly become so much more for me. In 2019, at my grandfather's funeral, a speech by an old work colleague resonated so deeply with me that it inspired me to return to school after many years. I am now pursuing a degree in Psychology at the University of Toronto Mississauga, with plans to graduate in Spring 2025 and continue on to a Master's in Counselling Psychology or Psychotherapy.

With that, I’d like to leave you with a poem from one of my favorite poets:

"If you ever get the chance to love a person who knows grief, do not let them go. You see the thing about grief is that it is not exclusive. It consumes life, it taints everything a little gray. It won't hesitate to remind you that everyone and everything you love will disappear someday. But I found that the people who carry grief, love with a fierceness that no one else knows. They understand what's at stake because they've had to let someone go. So they remember the little things and show up when it counts. They know that life is rare. You won't have to spell it out. So don't take for granted, the people who know loss, for they know more about love because they know what it costs." — Whitney Hanson

Jacqueline C.

Hello! My name is Jackie, and I’m a social worker and psychotherapist with nearly 20 years of experience. I’ve been volunteering with the Center since early 2025.

In addition to holding a Master’s degree in Social Work, I’ve completed certifications in Bereavement Education, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), and the Foundations of Applied Mindfulness Meditation. My career has included work in both hospital and community settings, allowing me to support individuals through a wide range of life challenges.

My own experience with the sudden loss of my husband was a turning point that deepened my understanding of grief and inspired me to support others through their own journeys. I have also experienced the loss of grandparents, uncles, and beloved companion animals. These personal losses have shaped my perspective on the deeply individual nature of grief.

Having a clinical and theoretical background in bereavement is one thing—living it is entirely another. My own grief journey has been marked by many changes and challenges, all of which have informed the compassionate, non-judgmental space I strive to create as a facilitator.

Grief follows its own path and carries a unique rhythm. My hope is to support others as they navigate their “new normal,” whatever that may look like. Being entrusted with people’s stories and bearing witness to their grief is a profound privilege—one I never take for granted.

Mohammed J.

Hello! My name is Mohammed. I started volunteering with the Centre for Grief and Healing in October 2024. I was drawn to this opportunity because I believe many people need an emotional space to vent but are unable to do so—either because they don’t feel comfortable or simply don’t have anyone to talk to. For a long time, I have wanted to provide people with that space because I know how crucial social support is and how much of a difference it can make in people's lives. From personal experience, I understand what it feels like to not have someone to talk to when needed. That’s why I want to be there for those who need someone to listen.

I have also experienced multiple significant losses in my life, including the passing of both my grandfathers and my uncle. The loss of my paternal grandfather and my uncle had a big impact on me growing up. I struggled to reach out for help because I had no close friends and was not aware of any external support services like the Centre for Grief and Healing. That’s why I am so grateful that these resources exist for those who can benefit from them.

Outside of volunteering, I really enjoy watching soccer, and my favorite team is Barcelona—which also explains why I hope to travel there one day. I also love reading books, especially psychological thrillers. The Silent Patient is the most interesting book I have ever read. Additionally, I like going for walks while listening to music, bowling, watching Netflix, and playing video games.

Right now, I am in my final year of university, pursuing a Bachelor of Honours in Psychology. After completing my master's program, I hope to become a psychotherapist.

Cara M.

My name is Cara Manolache. I am a York University psychology graduate and this upcoming fall I am beginning my masters degree in psychology.

My goal as a group facilitator is to help and reassure those who are struggling with the process of grief, since it can look different for everyone.

Bio coming soon!

Registered Charity #118803667RR0001

CENTRE FOR GRIEF & HEALING

Bereaved Families of Ontario -
Halton / Peel

Meet Our Volunteers