Matthew Newman
Founder & Global Head of Initiatives
Matthew Newman is a dedicated leader from Toronto, Canada, who embodies a profound spirit of service and strategic compassion. Currently a freshman at the University of Alabama, he seamlessly balances academic rigor with a sophisticated commitment to global philanthropy, setting a high standard for peer-led civic engagement.
In 2016, Matthew founded the Newman Global Initiative, a non-profit designed to mobilize resources for health, education, and displaced communities. His leadership reached a milestone in 2019 through a high-impact partnership with CNN Hero Dr. Ricardo Pun-Chong, raising vital funds for Inspira, a Peruvian organization that has transformed the lives of over 1,000 families.
Beyond fundraising, Matthew architects’ sustainable partnerships with international institutions like India’s Shanti Bhavan School. He views leadership as a platform for empowerment, utilizing his “Stop the Stigma” mental health campaigns and involvement with the Caritas School of Life to foster resilience in others. By mentoring fellow students and identifying local needs, he bridges the gap between global awareness and grassroots action.
Matthew’s distinguished service was recognized with the Ontario Medal for Young Volunteers (2023) and the King Charles III Coronation Medal (2024). Now expanding his footprint in the United States, he has launched the Legends 29 Initiative, a strategic effort to uplift and assist the local community in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.
Nicole Newman
Executive Vice President
Nicole Newman is a visionary leader dedicated to driving global educational equity and healthcare access. As the head of The Hummingbird Platform, a volunteer-driven project, Nicole is revolutionizing literacy through conversational AI. By merging cutting-edge technology with deep empathy, her team builds inclusive, adaptive tools that personalize learning for students with unique educational needs, dismantling traditional barriers to reading.
Her commitment to community impact is equally profound. Alongside Alessia Rosso, Nicole co-leads Project Sky Blue. Following a successful soft launch in 2025, this initiative is now hitting its stride, bridging critical gaps in healthcare and essential support services for underserved communities.
Her extensive volunteer leadership extends to the Newman Global Initiative (NGI). In collaboration with 2018 CNN Hero Dr. Ricardo Pun-Chong, NGI drives an ongoing initiative through Inspira, aiding over 2,700 families in Peru. Inspira supports children facing severe medical challenges who must travel to Lima for treatment. While a newly constructed 7,300 sq. ft. shelter has tripled capacity to accommodate 120 guests, Nicole remains focused on securing the funding needed to elevate it past its current 50% operating capacity.
Nicole’s extensive volunteer work spans Pasta it Forward, the Canadian Italian Heritage Foundation, Caritas School of Life, and Shanti Bhavan. In November 2025, her service earned her both the Vaughan Community Service Award and the National Congress of Italian Canadians’ Youth Achievement Award.
Alessia Rosso
Student President (Canada)
Alessia Rosso is a dedicated student-leader and community advocate whose passion for philanthropy began at age eleven. As a long-standing volunteer with the Newman Global Initiative (NGI), she has actively championed mental health initiatives, educational programs, and international outreach through Project Inspira in Peru. Her academic excellence and leadership were recognized in 2024 when she was named middle school valedictorian and received her school’s community service award.
Now a high school sophomore, Alessia co-leads Project Sky Blue alongside Nicole Newman. Following a successful soft launch in 2025, this visionary initiative is hitting its stride, dedicated to bridging critical gaps in healthcare and essential support services for underserved populations. Additionally, Alessia is a key contributor to The Sunflower Project, an NGI program that delivers vital food, clothing, and household items to local and global organizations to micro-impact communities in need. She also supports the “Butterfly Voice” Initiative and works as a licensed swim instructor.
Driven by a keen interest in science, Alessia aspires to pursue a meaningful career in the health professions. Outside of her academic and humanitarian pursuits, she possesses a deep appreciation for culture and loves to travel, especially to her grandparents’ home in Southern Italy. An avid reader and swimmer, Alessia seamlessly balances her diverse personal interests with a profound commitment to global well-being.
Eric Newman
Chair & Head of Global Fundraising
Eric is a high school junior and a competitive mogul skier who earned a silver medal in the combined event at the Canadian Junior National Championships. His passion for philanthropy began at age nine and has grown to include active fundraising and volunteer support for organizations such as NGI, Caritas School of Life, Inspira, Shanti Bhavan, and Meagan’s Hug.
Currently, Eric leads the “Nano Fund” (Modesto Project), an initiative providing micro-grants to individuals, small businesses, and educational causes across Guyana, Trinidad, and Zambia. Reflecting his belief in simple, scalable impact, the fund does not require repayment, asking only that recipient “pay it forward.” This project embodies his commitment to community empowerment and sustainable giving.
Eric’s leadership extends across multiple domains; he heads the Zermatt Bern Investment Club and leads the Sette e Mezzo Club, which keeps seniors socially connected through strategic gaming. Balancing his academic and community pursuits, he also works as a part-time warehouse supervisor, managing inventory, shipping, and receiving.
A dedicated champion for winter sports accessibility since 2024, Eric has collected essential ski gear for children who might otherwise miss the chance to experience the slopes. Driven by the generosity of friends and family, he has successfully outfitted numerous young athletes across the Greater Toronto Area. Looking ahead, Eric is scaling this impact through the official 2026 launch of Project Alpine Echo, ensuring every child can experience the exhilaration of winter.
Connor Ashcroft
Vice President (United States)
Connor is a Connecticut high school junior who has been an active, highly valued member of our team since 2022. Demonstrating a remarkable commitment to community outreach, he plays a central role in the Modesto, Sunflower, and Butterfly Voice Projects, consistently contributing his vibrant energy and natural leadership to each unique initiative.
His primary focus is Project Capricorn, our flagship mentoring initiative dedicated to helping young student-athletes balance their rigorous athletic pursuits, mental well-being, and academic responsibilities. Within this impactful program, emerging sports talents are paired with seasoned athletes who mentor them on critical skills like time management, stress reduction, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Through Project Capricorn, Connor helps equip these budding athletes with the essential tools needed to thrive both on the ice and in the classroom.
A dedicated student himself, Connor beautifully balances his own academic success with a tireless pursuit of excellence as an elite hockey prospect. Beyond the competitive arena of the rink and the structured environment of the classroom, he brings a deeply thoughtful interest in philosophy, showing a constant eagerness to reflect on complex concepts, learn from others, and share insightful ideas. Known across our organization for his unwavering reliability and generous spirit, Connor is always ready to lend a hand wherever it is needed most.
Ethan Ferrante
Vice President (Canada)
A dedicated student-athlete and active volunteer across the Greater Toronto Area, Ethan Ferrante is a high school junior at a Lasallian school deeply committed to leadership, academic excellence, and purposeful community service. He thoughtfully balances challenging coursework with high-level competitive athletics while actively participating in prestigious Case Competitions and Math Contests that reflect his strong intellectual curiosity and analytical problem-solving skills.
Ethan extends that same drive to service through the Modesto Project alongside his friend Eric, as well as the Hummingbird Platform, where he collaborates with his schoolmate Nicole to support impactful grassroots initiatives. An accomplished competitive golfer, Ethan proudly represents both his high school team and regional tournament circuits with dedication, focus, and exceptional sportsmanship.
Beyond athletics, Ethan regularly volunteers with the Smiles of Innocence Memorial Fundraiser, local food banks, and vital school programs that foster a welcoming, inclusive environment for all students. He is also an integral member of our dedicated seniors initiatives, most notably the Sette Mezzo seniors club, where he helps build meaningful intergenerational connections. Furthermore, Ethan generously dedicates his time to the Blue Mango Academy, tutoring young children to strengthen their foundational learning, expand their curiosity, and develop lasting academic self-confidence on a regular basis.
Ishan Kenth
Head of Student Volunteer Recruiting
Ishan is an ambitious science and technology high school student in Brampton, Ontario, with a strong passion for coding, engineering, and robotics. He actively gives back to his community by volunteering with Brampton Library’s free LEGO robotics programs and participating in local environmental clean-up initiatives. Outside of STEM and community service, Ishan stays active playing basketball and soccer. He is eager to contribute his skills and enthusiasm to the team, mentoring younger youth through the Project Butterfly initiative and advancing healthcare equity for underserved populations with Project Sky Blue.
Julia Luu
Head of Educational Projects
Matteo Triassi
Associate Vice President (Canada)
Matteo, a Grade 10 student at St. Andrew’s College in Aurora, Ontario, is a dedicated student-athlete excelling academically while competing on SAC’s U16 football and U18NC hockey teams. Outside school, he plays U16AA hockey for the GTHL’s Greater Toronto Capitals and spends summers refining his swing on the golf course. Matteo continues to broaden his leadership through SAC’s Leadership in Training programs and mentors’ youth as a Veneto Centre camp counselor. Since joining our team in 2021, he has been an invaluable volunteer, contributing significantly to the Modesto Project, The Sunflower Project, and fundraising detox beds for Caritas School of Life. A confident communicator, he showcased his public speaking skills as a keynote presenter at our 2024 mental health and addiction event. Matteo looks forward to expanding his role and future impact with NGI.
Daniel Reyes Calderon
Junior Global Ambassador
A 13-year-old from Maple, Ontario, Daniel is passionate about sports, particularly soccer. As an aspiring goalkeeper playing at the representative level, he’s constantly improving his skills. Daniel is also leading NGI’s first major “Global Ambassador” program, an initiative to provide 100 desks to a school in Honduras.
Beyond the soccer field, Daniel is working towards his Bronze Medallion to become a certified Swim Instructor and Lifeguard. Fluent in both French and English, he’s also learning Spanish to connect with his Hispanic heritage.
Adriano Campolongo
Junior Volunteer
Adriano is a 9th grade student and dedicated community volunteer who began his service journey in the summer of 2025. As an active member of the Newman Global Initiative, he is currently focusing his efforts on the Modesto and Sunflower Projects, which support education and food security initiatives around the world. Adriano is known for his enthusiasm, reliability, and leadership potential. Outside of volunteering, he is an avid sports enthusiast who enjoys golf, soccer, skiing, and fishing. He also has a growing passion for cooking, often experimenting with new recipes. Adrian brings energy, compassion, and curiosity to everything he does.
Miguel Ângelo de Castro
Health Ambassador (Brazil)
Miguel, a medical student at PUCRS in Brazil, is committed to improving community health. He has a great interest in the area of mental health and public health. He contributes to the Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Program (ProDAH), supporting research, teaching, and patient care. He also conducts research on childhood respiratory diseases like asthma and cystic fibrosis at the Infant Center and HSL/PUC, focusing on prevention and treatment. As our Health Ambassador in Brazil, Miguel plays a key role in expanding NGI’s global impact.
Active Alumni Team
Ava Rosso
Ava is an undergraduate psychology student at TMU in Toronto, fueling her passion for understanding the human mind. A dedicated volunteer since her early teens, Ava actively participates in numerous community initiatives, including the Newman Global Initiative’s (NGI) “Stop the Stigma” campaigns. Her commitment to mental health advocacy is unwavering, reflected in her fundraising efforts for detox beds at Caritas School of Life and textbooks for Shanti Bhavan in India.
Beyond her academic and philanthropic pursuits, Ava balances her time with a part-time job and enjoys immersing herself in the world of literature. An avid swimmer, she also finds joy and relaxation in staying active through sports. With her diverse interests and unwavering dedication to making a difference, Ava is a shining example of a well-rounded and compassionate individual.
Luca Rea
Luca, a B.Comm student and former student president of the Newman Global Initiative (NGI), is a dedicated leader and community advocate. Since 2018, he has played a pivotal role in NGI’s mental health and addiction programs, raising awareness and spearheading projects like the “My Mental Health Matters” campaign and initiatives focused on seniors.
A skilled hockey player, Luca balances academics and athletics with ease. He leads clothing drives within NGI and is a vocal advocate for mental health, particularly among older adults. His dedication earned him a prestigious community service award in 2023.
Despite his numerous achievements, Luca remains focused on the future, exploring opportunities in business or mathematics and committed to making a positive impact through volunteering.
Nayha Gill
An Ivey Business student at Western University, Nayha is defined by leadership and community impact. Her commitment to equity led her to found Skills Sphere, providing underserved communities with books and technology, alongside volunteering with Pasta it Forward and the Canadian Italian Heritage Foundation.
Internationally recognized, Nayha placed third at the DECA International Competition and won “Best Lawyer Advocate” at the OJEN Mock Bail Tournament. A dedicated musician pursuing Grade 6 RCM piano and an avid traveler, she actively supports fundraising for the Caritas School of Life and Inspira to drive meaningful change.
Madelyn Rosso
Madelyn is a freshman at Queen’s Commerce and has been a valuable member of the Newman Global Initiative (NGI) since 2020. She is deeply involved in mental health activism, particularly through the “My Mental Health Matters” campaign, and supports women’s programs. Madelyn leads NGI’s food initiatives, including the Inspira meal program in Peru. A committed soccer player, she balances academics with extracurriculars. With strong discipline and leadership, Madelyn aspires to a career in public accounting, driven by her passion for making a difference.
Amrit Kenth
Amrit is a medical student and emerging leader in healthcare innovation, with a strong background in robotics and global development. A former captain on Team Canada’s VEX and FIRST Robotics teams, she has led STEM initiatives on national and international stages. Her commitment to service began in middle school, spearheading a fundraiser for a water well in Ecuador, and later contributing to the construction of a hospital in Peru. As a key volunteer with St. John Ambulance, she helped lead vaccination efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic. Amrit now focuses on advancing small-scale healthcare solutions in underserved communities worldwide.
Vinny Rajkumar
Vinny, a native of Queens, New York, has been instrumental in assisting students with digital content creation. While a healthcare professional, Vinny has a background in film and media. For many years, he has been helping student teams with content creation and editing, particularly on mental health, addiction initiatives, and the WE CAN HELP FOUNDATION. In early 2022, Vinny formally joined the student board and will play a key role in our VISION 2025 plan. He will focus primarily on our global ambassador initiatives, specifically the Inspira Project and our program in Honduras.
James McCormick
James, a dedicated student at Lambton College and a passionate volunteer from rural Southwestern Ontario, has a deep commitment to community service with a particular focus on food security initiatives. He has a strong history of supporting impactful projects, notably contributing to NGI’s Project Capricorn and The Lotus Project. When he isn’t volunteering, James embraces the rhythm of rural life, farming, playing and watching hockey, and cheering on his local soccer team, which he helped lead to a provincial championship silver medal. His genuine dedication to helping others and his love for his community make him a tremendous asset to any endeavor.
Nicole De Marco
Nicole, a compassionate student at Queen’s Commerce, leads “The Lotus Project” to raise awareness for Crohn’s and Colitis, an initiative inspired by her mother’s experience. A dedicated educator and volunteer, she balances private tutoring with working at Kumon and running an after-school tutoring club she founded at St. Alphonsus School. Alongside her academic success and active involvement in DECA, Nicole works as a swim instructor at Davina’s Swim House, where she holds Bronze Cross and First Aid certifications. Through this exceptional commitment to leadership and community service, Nicole consistently demonstrates her potential to drive meaningful impact.
Julian DePaoli
A business school student, Julian is deeply committed to youth leadership and global impact. As leader of The Modesto Project, he mobilizes student volunteers for local and international community change. Julian also serves as a Special Advisor to the Hummingbird Platform, guiding youth advocacy, and coordinates food access for vulnerable populations with the Sunflower Project. A vital contributor to the Newman Global Initiative since 2021, Julian was named 2024 Volunteer of the Year. He drives micro-level change in developing countries and expands cross-cultural engagement by leading international recruitment across four continents.
Elizabeth Reyes Calderon
As an undergraduate science student from Vaughan, Ontario, Elizabeth is deeply passionate about healthcare. She is an active member of HOSA, focusing on medical ethics and clinical skills. Her dedication to care is evident through her volunteer work in the children’s ward at Michael Garron Hospital and her efforts in community outreach to inspire youth involvement. Beyond her medical pursuits, Elizabeth has been a competitive dancer since 2014, taking on the role of team captain in 2021. Since 2021, she has also been a vital contributor to both The Sunflower Project and Inspira – Peru, demonstrating a profound, long-standing commitment to service and leadership on both a local and global scale.
Matteo Esposito
Matteo is a freshman at Toronto Metropolitan University, where he demonstrates strong leadership both academically and in his community. An honor roll student with aspirations in business, Matteo has been an active volunteer since 2018, contributing his organizational skills and commitment to various event operations. He is deeply passionate about mental health and addiction initiatives, focusing on raising awareness and supporting those affected. Matteo’s ability to balance academic success with meaningful community involvement makes him a valued team member wherever he goes. In his spare time, he enjoys playing golf, combining a love of sport with focus and discipline on the course.
Vito Galloro
Vito is a Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting) student at the Lang School of Business and Economics at the University of Guelph. An Ontario Scholar and Business Award recipient, he demonstrated early leadership through DECA, Debate Club, and Varsity Hockey. Bringing ten years of competitive hockey experience, Vito has also shared his passion for the sport by teaching underprivileged children how to skate. Since joining NGI in 2023, he has been a committed volunteer, actively supporting Project Capricorn, our flagship mentoring initiative, and fundraising essential textbooks for Shanti Bhavan. Vito looks forward to expanding his leadership and community impact with NGI.
Where we help.
Toronto, Canada
Orlando, USA
Calabria, Italy
Lima, Peru
Phnom Penh, Cambodia
