Chris Erl is a born-and-raised Hamiltonian currently working as a researcher, writer, and political communications advisor. He has nearly two decades of experience with campaigns, policy, and strategy at all three levels of government. 

Claire McCracken is a part of McMaster’s new Wilson College for leadership and civic studies. She has worked as an anti-human trafficking advocate for a few years now and is looking forward to her future of education and developing skills. 

Dayle McKay is a community-driven student leader studying Leadership & Civic Studies at McMaster University, with a strong focus on Indigenous education, youth advocacy, and equitable digital governance. Experienced in policy development, civic engagement, and inclusive education through leadership roles across school boards, national organizations, and government-adjacent forums. Passionate about empowering young people and creating systems-level change through evidence-based advocacy and collaboration. 

Erin Carr is the Executive Director of the Solidarity Place Worker Education Centre, an arm’s-length non-profit of the Hamilton & District Labour Council that specializes in empowering marginalized workers with educational resources and tools to advocate for greater dignity in their workplaces. Erin had previously served as the founding co-chair of the HDLC Young Workers Group, sat on the OFL Young Workers Committee, and has taken leadership roles in several electoral campaigns locally, nationally, and internationally, including the Bernie Sanders 2020 Democratic Party Primary Campaign.

Hanna Mavarani is a first-year student at McMaster’s brand-new Wilson College Leadership and Civic Studies program and also part of their ambassador group, helping with the promotion and success of this new program. Hanna is part of McMaster’s first Kurdish Student Association as the Marketing Coordinator and Outreach Coordinator where she is constantly immersed in Middle Eastern politics and advocacy. 

Joëlle Kabisoso is a community leader, advocate, and social impact entrepreneur advancing equity, civic participation, and healing-centred support as the Founder and Executive Director of Sisters in Sync, a multi-program organization supporting leadership development, youth wellness, survivor advocacy, and community connection across Hamilton and beyond. Her nationally recognized leadership—honoured with awards including the Governor General’s Award for the Commemoration of the Persons Case, the Order of Hamilton, and the King Charles III Coronation Medal—centres collaboration, policy-informed advocacy, and amplifying the voices of Black women and girls, guided by her ethos: We got you, sis. 

Julia Edwards is a student at McMaster University in the Wilson College of Leadership and Civic Engagement program.  

Olivia Henderson is a Leadership and Civic Studies Student at McMaster University. As an aspiring policymaker Olivia specializes in project management, critical analysis and creative endeavors. Her leadership and design of the first Black History Month Assembly at Monsignor Doyle Catholic Secondary School earned her the Vincent Smith Memorial Scholarship for community impact in 2025. Olivia is committed to supporting equitable social practices for community development and civic engagement. Outside of assisting in developing social programs, Olivia enjoys beadwork, reading and rugby! 

Vanessa Davis is a registered social worker and Director of Programs and Services at Interval House of Hamilton, with extensive experience in community mental health, gender-based violence, and systems advocacy. She brings a strong background in trauma-informed practice, community engagement, and equity-driven organizational leadership.