(647) 723-6930 Mon - Fri 09:00 - 17:00 116 Industry St, Unit 208, Toronto, ON

Team

Meet the Building Up Team

Leadership

Marc Soberano

Founder, Executive Director

Marc founded Building Up because he felt it needed to exist. He believes that the role of a social enterprise is to connect people that want to make socially-minded purchasing decisions with the opportunity to do so.

Marc graduated the Richard Ivey School of Business, canoed across Canada, and understands the untapped transformative powers of construction. He combines lessons learned from life in the woods with a people-first outlook to lead this organization towards its vision.

Tarah Clark

Partner, COO

Tarah graduated from Princeton University with a B.A. in Economics and Finance. She spent the first 10 years of her career working in finance, where she became a VP for Deutsche Bank’s investment bank and a venture capital partner and investor.

Tarah joined Building Up as a volunteer in 2016 purposed with leveraging the power of business to address social, economic and environmental issues. Tarah passionately believes that Social Enterprise is the most impactful tool we have to building a better future. 

Heads of Department

Brooke Smith

Resource Development & Fundraising Manager

Hi Everyone! My name is Brooke Smith and I am the new Resource Development & Fundraising Manager. In this role, I will be responsible for leading new fundraising initiatives and raising money for Building Up’s incredible programs. I have 7+ years of experience in the non-profit sector where I have conducted major gift campaigns, organized fundraising events and applied for countless grants. I love what I do! It’s extremely rewarding to be a catalyst for change within my community and I look forward to getting to know the Building Up team.

I am a creative person at heart that absolutely loves music. I enjoy cooking, and baking and always have some sort of DIY project on the go. I believe movement is medicine, I practice yoga daily and enjoy going for walks with my family and our basset hound, Rhubarb.

Email: [email protected]

Obioma Dike

Director of Case Management

I’m Obioma Dike – Obi for short (if you are a fan of Star Wars’ Obi-Wan Kenobi).
I joined Building Up in 2021 as the Project Manager for the Alumni Program before stepping into the role of the Director of Case Management.
I lead and harness the amazing and dynamic talents in the Case Management team to ensure participants are successful along their entire apprenticeship pathway.

My background spans the financial service and non-profit sectors where I found my passion for people and community. Having overcome many barriers myself as a newcomer to Canada, I enjoy working with folks through their entire journey to overcome their unique barriers, and see them become empowered through wrap-around supports.
In my spare time, you will find me trying to learn something new or listening to a good podcast. I recently learnt how to bike, ski and skate. I also enjoy hiking.

Fun facts: I’ve been trying to balance on Skates lately, since I never saw ice growing up…lol:)

Adam Zweig

Director of Social Enterprise

My name is Adam, and I joined Building Up four and a half years ago. I manage the Social Enterprise Department. My roles include making sure enough work comes through Building Up and to have enough revenue. We help bridge the gap by employing people, as well as oversee miscellaneous projects, with the goal of getting the most people working.

Some interesting things about me are that I like playing guitar, snowboarding, basketball and hanging out on a patio.

Diego Savone

Labour Division Manager

My name is Diego, Labour Manager here at Building Up. Some of the major aspects of my role include the management of existing labour contracts as well as the development of new labour opportunities.

My partner Melisa and I have two daughters, Riley and Esther, and a furry daughter, our dog Ophelia. What can I say? My house is ruled by girls, I’m outnumbered and I wouldn’t have it any other way!

I love camping and getting away into the deep woods, and as a true Argentinean, I love my soccer and BBQs!

Brennan Luchsinger

General Manager - General Contracting

I manage the long-term operations and day-to-day work of the general contracting division. I work with the management team, site crew, and new or existing clients to develop construction projects that can push the boundaries of our team’s expertise. I’m happily a dedicated father who enjoys getting outdoors with family, music, and art.

Program Team

Mason McColl

Trades Training Manager

Hi everyone! I’m joining Building Up as the Trades Training Manager. My job is to teach the Hands-On Training to our program participants, and make sure the Training Centre is stocked with building materials and all the tools that trainees need to learn about to kick off their careers.

For the past few years I have been doing building and property maintenance on a 100 year-old building in midtown – my background is as a (mostly) residential painter and doing building & property maintenance in residential, commercial and institutional settings. I have done a lot of different types of work (trades and non-trades), and my favourite work has been in adult education; I have worked as an educator in math and the trades, and also around mental health and wellness, sexual health, safer drug use, anti-oppression & anti-racism, alternatives to the justice system, and lots more.

Eddie Wong

Essential Skills Instructor

Eddie has a background in Education and comes to Building Up with over 10 years experience in non-profit. He has supported youth and adults to reach their education goals and move on to new opportunities.

Eddie works with Building Up learners on the 9 Essential Skills, showing the link between these skills and the trades to help learners make a successful transition. Eddie is from the Caribbean and when not at Building Up dreams of being on a beach somewhere.

Nilani Selliah

Program Coordinator

I’ve joined the ranks of the trainee to staff pipeline over at Building Up — and what a joy that has been! I am currently the Program Coordinator, where I share the responsibility with my team to make a cohesive, supportive environment for our trainees.

Prior to finding my footing here at BU, I spent a lot of time (emotionally) scaling the sides of cliffs like a mountain goat (but with less finesse, and a lot more fear). Through this work, I found my interest in pursuing psychotherapy, at the Gestalt Institute of Toronto. I have collected and dabbled in a long list of hobbies (e.g. stick & pokes, screenprinting, pottery) and cannot wait to try more!

I am eager for conversations, so if there’s interest in diving into the unknown, I’m your guy!

Allison Roth

Trade Instructor

My name is Allison. I graduated from the building renovation program at GBC about eight years ago. I worked for some contractors in the city and joined Building Up close to four years ago. I work as a site supervisor and mostly enjoy projects that involve finishing carpentry. On our projects, I enjoy keeping our program participants engaged and developing skills and experience to start or future their careers in trades.

Melisa Savone

Outreach & Marketing Manager

Hi! I’m Melisa, the Outreach and Marketing Manager at Building Up. I’m responsible for building public relations campaigns that strengthen our partnerships with the community and other organizations.

My previous experiences include popular education and community organizing. I previously worked as an outdoor educator at Black Creek Community Farm, and most recently at Access Alliance as a Volunteer Coordinator engaging newcomers and refugees. I’m passionate about communications and thrive working in community settings.

I love the outdoors, growing food, and feel my best when I’m camping with my family and my dog.

Email: [email protected]

Marisa Da Ros

Math Teacher - Toronto Catholic District School Board

After working for 10 years in the financial industry, Marisa returned to school and gained accreditation as a Teacher of English as a Second Language. As a daughter of two immigrants, Marisa has always had a love for teaching and learning and a desire to help new immigrants.

Marisa has been an Adult Education Teacher for many years, most recently with the Toronto Catholic District School Board. Marisa enjoys teaching “Math for the Trades” to the Building Up students, as she helps them prepare for the entry exams to the various trade unions.

Case Management Team

Special Projects Manager

I am a recovering lawyer, and as a volunteer, I have had lots of experience with youth with barriers to employment, nonprofits and workforce development projects. As Special Projects Manager, I will reconnect with long-lost Alumni, find out what they are up to, tell them what we are up to and encourage them to re-engage with Building Up. And with regard to our career path resources, I will attempt to make sure that we have the best and most up-to-date information available and that these resources are well-organized and easy to use.

I always wanted to be an architect but really couldn’t even draw stick people properly, let alone do the complicated calculus needed for the profession. So my buildings would have looked ugly…and fallen down. Not a great combination. I am hoping my time at Building Up not only helps construct great lives and futures for others but allows me to vicariously experience the building industry.

Alumni Project Manager

​Hey everyone, my name is Tamara, but most people call me Tam. I’m the new Alumni Project Manager. I bring to Building Up my years of Experience obtained in the social services and healthcare sector managing and developing teams and programs.

Fun facts about myself, I am definitely a food lover, and I enjoy travelling to different locations for some relaxation time

Monique Symister

Career Case Manager

I worked in the Nonprofit industry for many years at a Pre-Employment Organization for young adults facing different barriers. I look forward to working as the Career Case Manager here at Building Up.

I hope to bring my previous experience along with my creativity at Building Up. I find great joy in helping others. I’m excited to make new memories, experiences and learn new things here.

I love sports (pretty much everything! Regardless if it’s watching it on TV or attending games). I’m obsessed with shopping (shoes are my “thing”). I enjoy any form of the Arts:

Listening to music, attending concerts/plays, painting etc. I also enjoy travelling. This allows me to see different places and meet new people.

Kerrie Ferris

Career Case Manager

Hello, my name is Kerrie Ferris and I am a Career Case Manager with Building Up. In this role, I will be supporting trainees as they work their way through the program and help guide them as they make decisions about their future careers in the trades.

My previous experience includes working as a Community Shelter Worker at Homes First Society. In this position I worked with folks from many different walks of life and supported them in meeting their goals (housing, employment etc.), navigating crisis situations, and running activities at the shelter including games and trivia.

In my spare time, I enjoy gardening and spending time outdoors (camping, hiking etc.). I also press and frame flowers and leaves that I find when I am out and about walking my dog.

Raphael Lee

Alumni Career Coach

I am a People person. Always people come first in my life.

When I turned 16, I started to travel around the world just to meet the citizens of Global village. Because I love meeting people, making new friends, and learning from one another.

I’ve been managing, coaching, and developing multicultural teams for over 15 years.

And blessed to lead and be part of the opening teams in global projects in various countries. While leading the multi-national & cultural team around the world, I learned to love and appreciate what we have every day.

Growing personal & professional goals by sharing visions with teammates became a part of my passion and a long-term goal in my life.

And I plan to share a mutual goal and empower mentees with respect and understanding of each other.

That’s why I love being a career coach and I will do my very best to share my passion and experience with everyone I meet.

Email: [email protected]

Obioma Dike

Director of Case Management

I’m Obioma Dike – Obi for short (if you are a fan of Star Wars’ Obi-Wan Kenobi).
I joined Building Up in 2021 as the Project Manager for the Alumni Program before stepping into the role of the Director of Case Management.
I lead and harness the amazing and dynamic talents in the Case Management team to ensure participants are successful along their entire apprenticeship pathway.

My background spans the financial service and non-profit sectors where I found my passion for people and community. Having overcome many barriers myself as a newcomer to Canada, I enjoy working with folks through their entire journey to overcome their unique barriers, and see them become empowered through wrap-around supports.
In my spare time, you will find me trying to learn something new or listening to a good podcast. I recently learnt how to bike, ski and skate. I also enjoy hiking.

Fun facts: I’ve been trying to balance on Skates lately, since I never saw ice growing up…lol:)

Alice Wynter

Financial Coach

Hello! My name is Alice and I am joining BuildingUp as the team’s Financial Coach.

My professional background spans over 30 years in connecting with a diverse range of people from all walks of life, in helping them navigate and get comfortable with the choppy waters of the world related to money.

How we approach our finances effects the quality of life for every single one of us, and my passion is helping people get to the heart of what may be holding them back towards building a sense of freedom and empowerment.

When I am not working, you will usually find me spending time exploring the great outdoors and just taking it easy. I also enjoy quality time with family and close friends, and I am always looking for new adventures. I have been told that I have a knack at finding some good ones!

Email: [email protected]

Gayla Forer

Counsellor

Gayla has an extensive work history including Teaching; Cultural Consultant and Therapist specializing in mental health and addictions. Over the years she has serviced a variety of populations including youth, parents and families in different modalities including individual, couple, family and group therapy. While working from an inclusive model, her passion has always been working with the racialized and marginalized populations, especially given her social location. She continues to work from an anti-oppressive, trauma informed lens and work hard to demystify the therapy process.

Her motto remains “To Thine Own Self Be True.”

Email: [email protected]

Shanice Francis

Manager of Career Case Management

Hello, my name is Shanice and I am the Manager of Career Case Management with BU. I have worked with BU just over 2 years now and bring to the company my background in Criminal Justice and Community Resources. I really enjoy working with people to help them learn, grow, and overcome many of life’s barriers. I love that I am able to do this in my current role and am excited to continue working with and meeting new individuals.

The reason I am good at my job is because I am passionate about the work that I do and the community I serve.

Jaleal Wright

Career Case Manager

Working at ORG Bahamas Foundation has allowed me to wear many hats such as HR, Grant Management, Project Management, Donor relations, and more. I am so happy to join BU as a Career Coach, helping trainees to learn, grow and evolve in their professional journey.

When I’m not coaching someone in their career or entrepreneur journey, I’m either shooting my next YouTube video, creating beauty and health content, or Learning the latest TikTok trend. You could say when I’m not working it’s “The Jaleal Show” and I’m the main character.

Email: [email protected]

Social Enterprise

Dominic Long

Insulation Project Manager

My experience with insulation dates back at least fifteen years in the industry, starting from small beginnings back in New York with the family business.

In my previous role, I had the wonderful opportunity to lead and manage ten fantastic insulation teams. With a strong focus on both new construction and retrofitting, I had the pleasure of overseeing a variety of projects, all aimed at helping our clients achieve top-notch quality and energy efficiency.

In my free time, I love a mix of activities that help me unwind and connect with my interests. I enjoy walks with my dog, biking in the city, and playing online games with friends.

Oneil Randall

Site Supervisor / Lead Carpenter | Contracting Division

My name is Oneil, and I proudly serve as a Site Supervisor/Lead
Carpenter within the contracting division of Building Up. With a
robust background in Construction General Contracting and Project
Management, I bring a wealth of expertise to my role, which centers on
shaping the next generation of construction professionals.

In my capacity, I am entrusted with the pivotal responsibility of
training and guiding participants in the Building Up program through
diverse renovation projects. This hands-on experience empowers them to
apply and enhance the skills they’ve acquired in a classroom setting.

My passion for the construction industry drives me to create
streamlined systems that optimize efficiency within our diligent work
environment. By implementing these systems, I aim to foster a smoother
execution process that yields heightened levels of productivity and superior-quality outcomes.

My dedication to problem-solving is two-fold: I thrive on tackling
practical challenges on the worksite and fostering positive interpersonal connections with those around me. As part of an ever-evolving team, I am elated to contribute to the growth of Building Up, as we continually refine our approach to better serve our community.

Beyond my professional endeavors, I find joy in spending quality time with my family and indulging in my love for singing. A deep-seated
desire to make a positive impact leads me to assist others and engage
in ongoing personal development through various courses and research
pursuits.

Andrew Bellissimo

Business Development and Data Admin

My name is Andrew, I am happy to join Building Up as the new Business Development and Data Admin. I will be working as part of the labour team.

I have extensive experience in the construction sector. Both, working on-site and in business development. I enjoy analyzing data and finding ways for improvement.

I recently moved to the city from Elliot Lake and in my free time I enjoy playing the guitar and being outdoors.

Email: [email protected]

Michael Belley

Site Supervisor | Contracting Division

For the past 5 years, I’ve run my own renovation business. We tackled projects ranging from floor and trim carpentry to full home demolition and rebuild. We ended up specializing in bathroom renovations for years 4 & 5.

At Building Up, I will be taking on the role of Site Supervisor and I’m really looking forward to collaborating with new people, sharing ideas and working towards a brighter future for everyone.

Some of my hobbies include practicing yoga and meditation, soccer, and rewatching Star Trek. After only having travelled outside Canada a couple of times, I decided to move to Sydney, Australia in 2013 on a working holiday visa and since then become an avid traveler, having travelled to a combined 35 countries so far.

Email: [email protected]

Diego Savone

Labour Division Manager

My name is Diego, Labour Manager here at Building Up. Some of the major aspects of my role include the management of existing labour contracts as well as the development of new labour opportunities.

My partner Melisa and I have two daughters, Riley and Esther, and a furry daughter, our dog Ophelia. What can I say? My house is ruled by girls, I’m outnumbered and I wouldn’t have it any other way!

I love camping and getting away into the deep woods, and as a true Argentinean, I love my soccer and BBQs!

Melissa Alexander

Accountability Coach

Joined Building Up in 2018 as a trainee

With Building Up, I was able to advocate for anyone that was going through the justice system where I became part of the outreach team. Going to different job fairs around the GTA and manage to train and prepare for the union of my choice.

Joined local 27 carpenter’s union as a floor covering installer apprentice in 2019 been with the union for two years will be entering my last level in November 29, 2021

I am also a certified peer worker for youth through Stella’s house where I conduct workshops for youth in underprivileged neighborhoods where I was able to go back to my childhood neighborhood to educate youth about mental health and trauma. From there I joined an organization called Progress Place where I am a peer worker for adults that is going through mental health and addiction.

So happy that I am able to join this team where my life changed dramatically 😊.

Love to help others, music, dance, movies, and writing.

Email: [email protected]

Okeremute Don Iruvwe

General Labour - Supervisor

My name is Okeremute Don Iruvwe. I previously worked at Kruger; a paper napkin packaging factory, where I worked as a paper napkin packager and machine operator. I joined Building Up as a Trainee in November 2020 and was later sent to various sites as a Trainee between March and August 2021 which include A/C Engagement, Boarding, and Contractors Support. I’m super excited about the promotion to the position of; Labour Lead Hand, where I will be working at various sites. My hobbies include cooking Nigeria foods, Swimming, traveling, and meeting people.

Olaniran Olusegun Olatoye

General Labour - Supervisor

I have been with Building Up since November 2019.

Lorena Howse

General Labour - Supervisor

I started my journey with the Building Up team as a trainee in 2019. My role as General Labour Supervisor is to aide and oversee employee performance, identify organizational, developmental needs, provide guidance and support, and deliver exceptional projects through fostering teamwork and maintaining a safe and healthy work environment. Through Building Up I have gained many opportunities and met many compassionate and insightful people, I am very grateful to be part of such a great community.

Email: [email protected]

Lukman Oyeniyi

General Labour - Supervisor

My name is Lukman and I am the general labour maintenance supervisor. My hobbies are playing soccer, listening to news and meeting people and putting a smile on their faces.

Olawuyi Anthonia Olubunmi

Site Supervisor | Labour Division

Hi! I joined Building Up as a trainee in 2019, and later joined Local 27 Carpenter’s Union as a Floor Covering Installer.

I was promoted to Site Supervisor at Building Up in 2021. My role is to manage, supervise and coordinate all key elements of projects in a safe and profitable manner.

I love traveling and enjoy encouraging and motivating people!!!

Email: [email protected]

Jules Paula

Operations Manager - Labour Department

I’m Jules, proud to be Brazilian and a lover of B.B.Q. I’m into fitness, living a healthy lifestyle and obsessed with personal development.

I am a Project Manager, making sure projects are completed on time and on budget. I also do all of the scheduling and invoicing for Building Up.

To challenge myself and to get out of my comfort zone, I performed stand-up comedy in front of a room with about 50 strangers.

Email: [email protected]

Tim Zubek

Site Supervisor

Previous to being a carpenter I spent 14 years working at The Toronto Star. I spent most of my time there laying out the classified section. At Building Up I will be a site supervisor and am looking forward to helping people learn new skills while working on interesting projects. I hope, also, to be able to learn new skills myself. While previously working for Building Up i always enjoyed hearing the success stories from trainees that I had worked with. When not working I enjoy watching sports and doing all sorts of puzzles.

Email: [email protected]

Peter Clarkson

Production Manager

Prior to Building Up, I was an engineer working on a wide variety of small and large infrastructure projects across Toronto, which allowed me to take on many different roles, including project management, design, construction contract administration and inspection. In my free time I was also able to sneak in a part-time role as a utility analyst for Steam Whistle Brewery in Etobicoke, right around the corner from the BU Training Centre.

With BU, I will now be leading all pre-construction-related work, which includes guiding the contracting team to success by developing accurate project plans, schedules, and budgets, qualifying incoming leads, as well as overseeing contract negotiations with clients.

Dean Vye

Construction Manager | CONTRACTING DIVISION

Dean comes to Building Up from Sault Ste. Marie with 10 years of residential and commercial plumbing experience. He is a licensed journeyman, a master plumber and comes with his G2/G3 certification.

With extensive experience supervising and mentoring apprentices Dean brings first hand knowledge of supporting new entrants through their apprenticeships and through their successful transition into journey people.

Jim Peterson

Site Supervisor

My name is Jim, and I’m a Site Supervisor at Building Up. I spend my day teaching and collaborating with coworkers on construction projects. We build and spruce up offices, apartments and other areas that require a special touch.
My hobbies are watching my two teenagers play rep sports (not much time for anything else). They both play baseball, which is extra exciting to me as I played for 20 years, and in my last year represented Ontario in a national tournament hosted in Newfoundland.

Another interesting fact, I did not know much about my family history and took an ancestry test a couple of years ago. Something really surprising to me was my high percentage connection to Norway. I am starting on a new journey of discovering new connections as people with DNA matches are reaching out.

HR

Csaba Nyitrai

HR Specialist

My name is Csaba Nyitrai. I was born in Hungary and moved to Canada 10 years ago. I studied Business Administration – Human Resources at George Brown College.

My hobbies are going to the gym, walk, cooking, baking and meeting with my friends. I also enjoy going to concerts, my two favours are Miley Cyrus and Gwen Stefani. Ever since the lockdown, I started work out from home, I learned to bake cakes and other baked goods. I also recently started learning Japanese which I enjoy very much. In the future, I would love to visit Japan and use my skills to communicate with people in Japanese.

Leigh Anne Pearson

Bookkeeper

Leigh Anne comes to us with over 20 years of bookkeeping and administrative experience. In addition to her work with Building Up, she is a Certified Personal Trainer and enjoys working with others on their quest for a healthier lifestyle.

Building Up has assembled a board of advisors that is passionate about our mission and has expertise across multiple industries, roles and sectors.

The Building Up board is proud to support the work that is accomplished each day by the team, the program participants and the program graduates.