Whitney Crooks (Chair) is a Community Animator with Live Green Toronto and since 2007 has worked on various initiatives at TGC as a volunteer and as staff, including her role as a project lead on the Solar Thermal Project and the Community Energy Action Plan project. Whitney has an MSc in Applied Meteorology and Climatology from the University of Birmingham in the UK and recently completed her Master of Environmental Studies (MES) degree at York University with an area of concentration in Promoting Environmental Awareness and Action in Communities.

Ellen Giles (Vice Chair) was born in a rural area of Ireland where she enjoyed pollution-free surroundings. She applied her interest in environmental issues to her job as Community Development Coordinator in Student Family Housing at the U of T where she helped create a rooftop garden for students and families, formed an environmental committee, and organized ongoing programs including recycling, energy and water conservation. Ellen has been very involved in many TGC programs since her retirement.

Imran Noorani (Treasurer) holds an MBA degree from the Schulich School of Business (specializing in Strategic Management, Sustainability and Consulting), and a Bachelor of Commerce in Marketing and Business Law from Ryerson University. Imran has applied his knowledge to various industries and government faculty development initiatives and focused on consulting services, designing and implementing strategic plans for businesses across various sectors, with a focus on sustainability.

Wendy Southall is an active volunteer with TGC, coordinating our newsletter, Corporate Employee Activities and Eco Gift Wrapping programs, as well as participating in the fundraising committee and outreach. Wendy practiced law for over twenty years and also served as the lead on various charitable fundraising committees. Wendy has had a longstanding interest in environmental issues and is pleased to be able to focus her energies on helping TGC achieve its objectives.

Muthoni Yunis Kariuki has an honours BSc degree in Physical Environmental Geography and Natural Resources Management, along with a certificate in Computer Studies from George Brown College. Yunis has volunteered for a number of non-profit organizations including some youth organizations such as HOPE Worldwide and Kiwanis Club. Yunis has special skills in Community Outreach and fundraising.

Wendyline Beaudoin is a professional engineer that has worked over 10 years in the automotive and telecommunications industries as an environmental consultant. Her work includes improving employee engagement through the promotion of more sustainable alternatives at work and at home. Wendy has experience in soil and water remediation and solid/hazardous waste management as well as developing and implementing environmental management systems that align with the international standard ISO 14001 to manage environmental risk.

Mercedes Markowski has a B.Sc. in environmental science from the University of Toronto and a graduate certificate in Green Business Management from Seneca College. She is a Sustainability Analyst at Colliers International where she assists in the development and delivery of sustainability tools, training, services and reports, and also acts as a liaison with the Canada Green Building Council and the World Green Building Council. Mercedes has been volunteering with the Toronto Green Community since 2008.

Julieta Duque was a home economics teacher who worked with women and families in community development with the Ministry of Health in rural areas of Guatemala before emigrating to. After graduating from the social work program at Ryerson University, Julieta established the San Lorenzo Community Organic Garden and a bilingual community radio show on health, food security issues and the environment, which she also hosted. Julieta volunteers with local and international organizations (such as Children’s Aid Society) and has participated in several fundraising activities.

Honourary Patron:  David Suzuki

Honourary Chairs: Jacky Kennedy and Rita Banach