We needed to talk more, do more.

Level Up started in the Summer of 2021 in the backyard of our home in Kitchener. Like many other families, we needed a way to talk to our kids about significant issues affecting our community, particularly in the aftermath of Black Lives Matters, the identification of residential school graves and the global pandemic.

We began to collect and play engaging and enlightening activities that promote critical thinking and civic action and curated them into what we are now calling Level Up. Our very talented and dear friends have contributed to the content, design and planning of the program. It feels like an amazing community effort by parents who really want to see a different world and who want to provide their kids with a space to be that change.

2026-27 Board of Directors

Matt F. - Chair

Matt is a spouse, father, and scholar-activist living in Kitchener. He brings experience with social movement organizing on issues of climate and environmental justice. Matt has been teaching undergraduate courses on climate justice, climate science, and action-research at the University of Waterloo, while developing decolonial pedagogies with Indigenous partners. He also has experience with community gardening. Matt has a PhD in Communication and Culture from Toronto Metropolitan University (formally Ryerson), a Masters in Canadian and Native Studies from Trent University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology from McGill University.

Russ S. - Treasurer

Born and raised in Kitchener, Russ Stuebing is a happily retired CA (CMA) accountant with a wealth of experience in finance, strategy and mergers and acquisitions with publicly listed companies including Open Text, Equifax, Quarterhill, and Manulife. In addition to his work with Level Up, he is an active volunteer with Meals on Wheels, the Waterloo Region Community Foundation, and coaches soccer with the City of Kitchener. 

As Treasurer, Russ provides strategic and financial guidance, oversees Level Up's budget development, ensures the maintenance of accurate financial records, and appropriate financial governance and controls.

Natalie O. - Secretary

Natalie Oleksinski, a Waterloo resident, works as an Associate Lawyer at Woynarski SzymuraKelly LLP, specializing in various areas of law. She is dedicated to volunteering, recently contributing her time to an organization called Level, which advocates for justice in the legal system.

In her role as Secretary, Natalie provides guidance on governance and legislation pertaining to non-profits, ensuring compliance and best practices; and records and maintains governance records.

2026-27 Facilitators

  • Catherine

    Ages 13-16 FACILITATOR

    Catherine has recently joined Level Up, and is currently a fourth year student at the University of Waterloo, studying Psychology. In the past, she has worked with youth in a variety of roles, including tutoring and camp counsellor and has always found their ideas, experiences, and insights incredibly meaningful.

    Social Justice issues most passionate about: Mental health advocacy, equitable access to care, and how systems and socio-economic positioning shape people's well-being and life. 

    Looking forward to: Work with youth and hear their voices and perspectives about the social issues happening in the world. 

  • Fiona

    Ages 9-12 FACILITATOR

    Fiona has been with Level Up since 2025. Currently she is an ESL instructor and truly loves her work. She deeply cares about creating communities where people feel valued, included, and supported, especially those who may face barriers that make it difficult to find connection, belonging, and a place where they feel seen and accepted. 

    Social Justice issues most passionate about: Disability rights, homelessness, equal access to education, and ensuring everyone has the freedom to practice their faith with respect and dignity.

    Looking forward to: Hearing what the youth of this generation have to share and what social justice issues they care about. 

  • Makilda

    Ages 9-12 FACILITATOR

    Makilda has been with Level Up since 2023. She has a degree in International Education and has led several youth and peer wellness and mindset workshops. Currently she works as a Child and Youth Counsellor supporting young people through emotional and behavioural barriers. 

    Social justice issues most passionate about: Children’s rights; food and housing insecurity

    Looking forward to: The resources we have access to, and the creations and ideas that will come from the youth as their interests and ideas shine through.



  • Rubab

    Ages 13-16 FACILITATOR

    Rubab has been with Level Up since early 2026. She is currently a student at the University of Waterloo studying Public Health. She has worked with youth in various different aspects before such as day-camps and high school robotics team mentor. 

    Social justice issues most passionate about: Food insecurity, freedom of speech, social determinants of health

    Looking forward to: Fostering a space of curiosity and learning for youth.