Board of Directors

Ackshan Devakumar is a dedicated Mental Health Emergency Registered Nurse at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), where he provides critical care and support to individuals in crisis. A proud graduate of the Ryerson, Centennial, George Brown Collaborative Nursing Program, Ackshan served as the Nursing Course Union President during his undergraduate years, championing student advocacy and leadership.

Driven by a deep commitment to health equity, Ackshan is passionate about reducing the stigma surrounding mental health—particularly within marginalized and underserved communities. His mission is to foster compassionate, inclusive care and to be a voice for those often unheard in the healthcare system.

With over 20 years of dedicated experience in mental health nursing, Tonya Martin has built a career rooted in compassionate care, advocacy, and community leadership. Her professional background spans inpatient psychiatry, crisis intervention, and community mental health, where she has served as a case manager supporting individuals with complex needs.

Tonya is also the former owner and operator of mental health group homes, which provided safe and supportive environments for vulnerable populations. A strong advocate for mental health awareness and accessibility, she brings a deep understanding of both frontline care and system navigation.

In addition to her clinical work, Tonya is a passionate entrepreneur in the women’s health and wellness space, committed to empowering women through education, holistic care, and personal development. She is proud to serve on the Board of Directors, where she contributes her insight, experience, and dedication to meaningful change in mental health services.

Kayla’s experience includes her work with the Youth in Policing Initiative under the Toronto Police Service, where she engaged in social justice education, supported food bank services in Empringham, and contributed to women and youth empowerment initiatives. She has also participated in the Black Summer Student Leadership Program with the Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement, where she led Afrocentric research projects addressing key community issues.

As a documentary creator and director in the Heal ‘N Tell Program, Kayla explored mental health through storytelling and filmmaking. She further expanded her leadership by contributing to an online code of conduct initiative with White Ribbon, advocating for digital safety and inclusivity.

Her dedication to environmental education is evident through her involvement in the Future Farming Program at the Malvern Family Resource Centre, where she learned about sustainable food systems and environmental stewardship.

Kayla exemplifies a new generation of community leaders committed to equity, creativity, and transformative impact. She continues to uplift her community through initiatives rooted in healing, education, and artistic expression.