Our Staff
Hokani - Director
I have been living in Vancouver, BC for a few years, having moved from the beautiful region of Nagaland, India, where I was born and raised. I hold a Master's in Pastoral and Public Leadership and am a Certified Instructor of ABACUS Mental Math.
With many years of experience in the education sector, I have developed a unique ability to connect with children of all ages and backgrounds. I am particularly drawn to after-school programs, where I can help students develop critical skills and confidence in a fun, supportive environment. My goal is to inspire young minds and foster a love for lifelong learning. I feel incredibly fortunate to play a small part in shaping their futures and helping them grow into compassionate, confident, and curious individuals. I believe every child deserves a supportive and stimulating education, and I am committed to helping them reach their full potential.
In my spare time, I enjoy singing, playing guitar, gardening, and crafting, including knitting and crocheting.
Rakshitha - Program Supervisor
Hi, I’m Rakshitha. I’m originally from Mumbai, India. I moved to Canada in 2022. I completed my post-baccalaureate Diploma in Accounting Program at UBC Sauder School of Business. Before moving to Canada, I worked as a teacher in India for three years, teaching subjects like Economics, Mathematics and Accounting. This helped me develop a strong passion for working with children and supporting their learning and development.
I have worked in YMCA before and after school care for the past 5 years, where I have had the opportunity to work with children of different ages and personalities. I truly enjoy creating a loving, fun, and welcoming environment where children feel comfortable being themselves.
In my spare time, I love travelling, going on hikes, cooking, reading books, watching movies, and spending time with my friends. I’m excited to keep learning and growing alongside the children, and I feel very fortunate to be part of their journey.
Gina
Hi, I’m Gina, I am from the Philippines. I graduated from Philippine Christian University with a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. As I love to work and learn more about children’s behaviour and characteristics, I decided to continue my studies at Vancouver Career College and received my ECE certificate. I started to work at TOOSCS in October 2017, and I am currently assigned to work in the Water programs. I’m a single mom raising a daughter who attended Trafalgar Elementary. In my spare time, I love to hang out with my daughter, do cross stitch, cooking and swimming.
Celine
I was born in Congo and immigrated to Canada in 1996. I received my ECE diploma from Vancouver Community College and have been working in the childcare field for approximately 10 years. Since I graduated, I have worked with infants, toddlers, preschool and school-age children. I am currently working with Preschool and Wind programs here at TOOSCS. In my spare time, I enjoy playing soccer, hiking, making waist beads and hanging out with family and friends.
"Every day I learn something new from children. I love to create new memories with all the children and families. Thanks to all the families for allowing me to be a part of their children’s lives."
Helen
I was born and raised in the Philippines and acquired my Caregiving NCII certificate from Technical Education and Skills Development Authority. I graduated in Web Application Development at AMA Computer College. I had 2 years of working experience in preschool in the Philippines. I love being around children, playing, singing, and having relationships with them. Children are the best part of my job. I treat them all as my own child. In my free time, I enjoy watching movies, cooking, reading, and painting. Currently, I’m enjoying my newfound home here in Vancouver with my two daughters and husband. To me, every child is unique in their own way. They need to feel loved and respected as well, no matter who and what they are. Every child is a treasure.
Taise
Hello, my name is Taise. I am originally from Brazil. After moving to Vancouver with my family, I completed my Bachelor of Arts in Management at City University of Seattle (Vancouver Campus).
Alongside my professional career in administration, I have always been deeply involved in caring for and supporting the protection and well-being of children. From a young age, I volunteered in community and church programs and also served as a member of the Municipal Council for the Rights of Children and Adolescents in my hometown. Here in Vancouver, I also volunteered at a food bank for more than a year, supporting families in vulnerable situations and connecting with people from diverse cultural backgrounds, which I consider an enriching experience.
In my free time, I enjoy singing and dancing at home, spending time with my husband and son, walking in local parks, and taking photos of Vancouver’s beautiful landscapes.
Meliana
Hi, I am Meliana. I was born and raised in Indonesia before moving to Canada in 2024. I received my Early Childhood Educator Assistant (ECEA) certificate from the Montessori Training Centre of British Columbia in 2025.
Since October 2025, I have been working as a substitute at TOOSCS and volunteering as a Sunday School teacher for the Indonesian Catholic Community in Vancouver. I love working with children because I believe every child is unique, and I want to support their growth and development. With my background in the creative and advertising industry, I enjoy bringing creativity into the learning environment through arts and crafts, sports, baking, games, and hands-on experiences. I strongly believe that every child deserves to feel valued, supported, and included.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my husband, cooking, baking, and traveling overseas. I look forward to creating a warm, fun, and positive environment where children can explore their interests and thrive together.
Aliza
Hello! My name is Aliza, and I am originally from Delhi, India. I completed my undergraduate degree at the University of British Columbia (UBC), where I studied Psychology and History.
I have five years of experience working with children, and I truly enjoy supporting their growth, learning, and development. I believe that every child deserves a safe, supportive, and encouraging environment where they can feel confident, reach their potential, and build a bright future.
With my background in psychology, I hope to better understand each child's unique needs and use my knowledge to support their emotional, social, and personal development. I am passionate about making a positive difference in children's lives and helping them grow into happy, confident, and successful individuals. I look forward to continuing to learn, grow, and make a meaningful impact in the lives of the children and families I work with at TOOSCS.
Emily
Hello, my name is Emily Hernández! I am currently in my final year of my undergraduate degree at UBC. I am double majoring in International Relations and Political Science. I have a passion for working with children. I really enjoy creating that safe space where children can be themselves, play, be imaginative, and make long lasting positive memories.
I have worked at TOOSCS since fall 2024. In the past I have volunteered at the BC Children’s Hospital, Canucks Place Children’s Hospice, and Camp Good Times with the Canadian Cancer Society. Every other year I travel to Costa Rica to volunteer at an orphanage called “Hogar Cristiano,” At Hogar Cristiano I offer English lessons to the orphaned children. I introduce the children to the language by teaching new vocabulary with Spanish translation, we also play games and sing songs.
Outside of school and work, I enjoy spending time with my pets. I have two dogs named Nacho and Anji and a cat named Guts. Some hobbies of mine are paddle boarding, hiking, and learning new languages.