About Us

We are united in our mission to promote global awareness through local engagement in Canada.

About YouCount.ca

Our digital civic engagement platform is called YouCount.ca. When users enter their location into YouCount.ca, they are provided with profiles of their corresponding political representatives and information about their work. As a means to accommodate Canada’s multicultural and diverse population, YouCount.ca can be browsed in 109 different languages. We hope that YouCount.ca can be a one-stop website for Canadian citizens and residents to learn about the three levels of Canadian government and engage with their political representatives.

About Our Parent Foundation — GLOCAL

YouCount.ca is a project of GLOCAL Foundation of Canada, which is a non-partisan, not-for-profit organization that focuses on grassroots initiatives to facilitate local civic engagement and global understanding. As of July 2021, our GLOCAL team is composed of 90+ staff, consultants, advisors, and volunteers from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds. GLOCAL and YouCount.ca are for all Canadians but have a focus on youth, seniors, marginalized groups (the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, people with disabilities, and BIPOC individuals), immigrants & refugees, Indigenous communities, and overseas Canadians.

Research and Data Driven

We are an official partner of The Consortium on Electoral Democracy/Consortium de la démocratie électorale (C-Dem), a network of researchers, electoral management boards, policy makers, and civil society organizations who investigate the well-being of Canadian democracy.

Meet The Team

Our team members are located across the country and speak over 20 languages.

Management Team Members

Faye Ying

Founder & Executive Director
Passionate about people engagement and social innovation, Faye has worked in Canada's Parliament, at the University of British Columbia (UBC), in the venture capital industry, and for the United Nations. Her diverse international and domestic work experience has taught her the importance of global understanding and local engagement, which led her to create GLOCAL, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to digital civic engagement and youth engagement in Canada. Faye received her B.A. from UBC and an M.A. from Harvard University. She is a proud mother who is constantly juggling the responsibilities of family, work and community services.

Faye respectfully acknowledges that she is located on the unceded territory of the Coast Salish Peoples, including the territories of the xwməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), Stó:lō and Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil- Waututh) Nations.

Hunter Driggers

Research Associate
Hunter is deeply committed to promoting civic engagement through accessible non-partisan information. Appropriately, Hunter is responsible for leading GLOCAL’s efforts to produce original and high-quality research. This includes overseeing research design, supervising research projects, recommending research ideas, reviewing research-based content, and supporting Research Team members as they endeavor to better understand civil society in contemporary Canada. Hunter is also a PhD candidate at the University of Western Ontario, where he is currently completing his doctoral dissertation on recovering from episodes of democratic decay. When Hunter is not acting as the Research Team Manager, he conducts research for academic publication, enjoys video games and reading, and spends time with his wife and cat.

Hunter respectfully acknowledges that he is located on the unceded territory of the Attawandaron, Haudenosaunee, and Anishinaabe peoples. Hunter is extremely grateful for the opportunity to live as a guest on lands that have traditionally been under Indigenous stewardship, and he recognizes the need for meaningful reconciliation and justice.

Carla Caruana

Research Advisor
Dr. Carla Caruana is a political scientist, author, researcher, educator, editor, and general knower of things political. She got her PhD in Political Science from the University of Western Ontario in 2016 and has published on strategic voting, negative partisanship and the behaviour of legislators. She has returned to GLOCAL for another opportunity to do research that helps the public get engaged with democracy, which is more important than ever.

Dr. Caruana does not reveal her location online, but since everywhere on this continent is someone else's land, she recommends getting to know whom those people and nations are, and behaving with the appropriate respect for their unceded sovereignty. It's up to us to uphold the promises made to them in our name.

Raghunath Rajendran

Project Manager
As a Project Manager at GLOCAL, Raghu is looking forward to supporting the team performance, stakeholder engagement, Board governance and events oversight . He graduated from the University of Winnipeg with a Post Graduate Diploma in Supply Chain Management and also from St. Clair College with a Post Graduate Certificate in Human Resouce Management. In his spare time, Raghu enjoys playing badminton, spending time with his family, and getting up to date with global current affairs.

Raghu would like to respectfully acknowledge that he is located on the territory covered by Treaty 1, the traditional territory of the Anishinabe, Cree, Oji-Cree, Dakota and Dene peoples, and the homeland of the Métis nation.

Joseph Ong

Project Manager, Digital Products and Services
As a Project Manager at GLOCAL, Joseph is responsible for overseeing the project throughout the entire lifecycle. He graduated from University of Toronto with a Bachelor of Arts in Digital Enterprise Management. In his spare time, Joseph enjoys curating recipes, playing video games and exploring Web 4.0 business applications.

Joseph respectfully acknowledges that he is located on the traditional territories Haudenosaunee and Anishnaabeg peoples.

Vicky Huang

Project Manager, Data
As a Project Manager at GLOCAL, Vicky oversees data-driven projects that enhance civic engagement and electoral transparency in Canada. She manages the development of the 'Find Your Political Representative' database, coordinates Canada Election Survey data analysis, and leads volunteer data teams in research and technical tasks. Vicky holds an MBA from a Canadian university and previously worked as an antitrust and IP lawyer in Beijing. In her spare time, she enjoys exploring data visualizations, engaging in community initiatives, and discovering new cultural experiences.

Vicky respectfully acknowledges that she is located on the traditional territories of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh peoples.

Paula Andrea Perez Gomez

Compliance Officer
With a background in legal analysis, research, and civic engagement, Paula has valuable experience and a passion for helping others. She is a proud member of the Hispanic community and has contributed to an interdisciplinary social project, as well as managed cases as a Legal Analyst and Supervisor. Paula holds a Master's in Constitutional Law from Spain and a LLB from Colombia, demonstrating her commitment to learning. She is passionate about making a positive impact and looks forward to contributing to future projects.

Paula respectfully acknowledges that she is located in Treaty 20 Michi Saagiig territory and in the traditional territory of the Michi Saagiig and Chippewa Anishinaabeg Nations, collectively known as the Williams Treaties First Nations, which include: Curve Lake, Hiawatha, Alderville, Scugog Island, Rama, Beausoleil, and Georgina Island First Nations.

Ursula Guan

Event Coordinator
As a Event Coordinator at GLOCAL, Ursula plans and coordinates events, workshops, conferences, and more, covering various fields. She graduated from Carleton University with a Master of Arts in Women’s and Gender Studies. Outside of work, she enjoys curling up with her cat and a good book, making art with her kid, and gardening with friends.

Ursula respectfully acknowledges that she is located on the traditional unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishnaabeg people.

Jia Yue He

Research Manager
Jia Yue brings passion for research and for public outreach to connect all Canadians with the information they need to become active civic participants. Jia Yue graduated with a bachelor's degree in psychology honours and English honours and is pursuing a master's in education at the University of British Columbia.

I would like to respectfully acknowledge that I am located on the unceded territory of the Coast Salish Peoples, including the territories of the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.

Robina Hamdard

Community Outreach Manager
Robina has over 15 years of extensive experience in development, gender equality, and peace and security programming. She holds a BA in Law and Political Science from Kabul University and has also studied international relations at the master’s level. Throughout her career, Robina has worked across a wide range of fields, including women’s rights, gender equality, grant management, advocacy, proposal writing, event management, monitoring and evaluation, capacity building, and project management. She has held key roles at organizations such as the Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission, The Killid Group Media, Afghan Women’s Network (as Advocacy Manager), UNDP, the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES), the U.S. Ambassador’s Small Grants Program, and UN Women Afghanistan.

Samantha Wong

Social Media Officer
As the Social Media Officer at GLOCAL, Samantha manages and creates content for the organization’s digital platforms, helping to grow engagement and build community through strategic storytelling. She recently completed her Bachelor of Business Administration with a focus on Marketing Management at the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT). Outside of work, Samantha enjoys discovering new restaurants, designing creative visuals, watching films, and staying active through hiking and travel.

Samantha respectfully acknowledges that she is located on the traditional and unceded territories of the Coast Salish Peoples, including the territories of the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.

Daniel Biel

Digital Project Officer
As a Digital Project Officer at GLOCAL, Daniel oversees the functionality and user experience of digital tools, such as onboarding platforms, learning systems, and support bots. He will be graduating from the University of Toronto with a Bachelor of Arts. Outside of his professional life, Daniel explores overlooked parts of Canada, hunts for vintage atlases, and reading about geopolitical history.

Nicola Fong

Social Issues Researcher
As a Social Issues Researcher at GLOCAL, Nicola conducts research on Canada’s health systems and service delivery. She expects to graduate from the University of British Columbia with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science in the summer of 2025. In her spare time, Nicola enjoys staying connected with friends and exploring new restaurants.

Nicola respectfully acknowledges that she is located on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) People.

Emma Ivanoff

Social Issues Researcher


I would like to begin by acknowledging that I am located in Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Wautuh Nations.

Aria Mak

Social Issues Researcher
Aria is a Social Issues Researcher at GLOCAL, where she supports community-driven policy development in line with GLOCAL’s mission to advance civic participation and accessibility for underserved communities. A recent UBC graduate in Political Science and Philosophy, she plans to pursue a Master’s in Public Policy and is passionate about public health and civic equity. In her free time, Aria enjoys racket sports, exploring new restaurants, and spending time with friends.

Aria respectfully acknowledges that she is located on the traditional territory of the Lekwungen peoples, known today as the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations.

Benjamin Woo

Social Issues Researcher
As a Social Issues Researcher at GLOCAL, Benjamin brings a deep passion for research and a strong commitment to social equity and inclusion to the team. With a background in research, Benjamin’s work spans a diverse range of topics, all driven by a desire to create systems that are more inclusive and accessible. Benjamin’s ongoing goal is to help shape more inclusive systems, both in policy and practice, while breaking down structural barriers to opportunity and access. Through his work with GLOCAL, he hopes to contribute to sustainable change that prioritizes equity and community empowerment. Currently pursuing a degree in Neuroscience and Biology at the University of British Columbia, Benjamin is particularly interested in the intersection of mental health policy, neurodiversity, and public health. A collaborative leader, Benjamin has co-led two research projects presented at the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and continues to explore innovative approaches to addressing health disparities.

Benjamin respectfully acknowledges that he is located on the unceded territory of the Coast Salish Peoples, including the territories of the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations

Noah Ng

Social Issues Researcher
As a Social Issues Researcher at GLOCAL, Noah conducts research and performs community outreach pertaining to AI and Data Privacy in Canada. He graduated from The University of British Columbia with a bachelors in Philosophy. In his free time, Noah enjoys studying and contemplating positions concerning ontology, metaethics, and the history of philosophy.

Noah respectfully acknowledges that he is located on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the Coast Salish Peoples, including the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.

Jacky Chen

Data Analytics Specialist
As a Data Analytics specialist at GLOCAL, Jacky conducts data analysis into Canada’s political systems and representatives at every level of government. He graduated from the University of British Columbia with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Microbiology and Immunology. In his spare time, Jacky enjoys staying connected with friends, getting lost in a good book, and competing in different sports.

Jacky respectfully acknowledges that he is located on the traditional territories of the Tsawwassen, Musqueam and other Coast Salish peoples.

Mia Han

Data Analytics Specialist
As a Data Analytics Specialist at GLOCAL, Mia explores Indigenous datasets that support underrepresented communities and promote social awareness. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from the University of British Columbia and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Professional Computer Science at Simon Fraser University. In her spare time, Mia loves the thrill of ice skating and skiing, unwinds by playing the violin, and enjoys solving puzzles in escape rooms with friends.

Mia gratefully acknowledges that she lives, works—and occasionally faceplants on the slopes—on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and Səl̓ílwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.

Daniel Ajenifuja

Data Analytics Specialist
As a Data Analytics Specialist at GLOCAL, Daniel Ajenifuja is a 3rd year computer science student at Western University. Daniel likes to play soccer and go to the gym and code/build systems in his free time.

Daniel acknowledge the lands which constitute the present-day City of Mississauga as being part of the Treaty and Traditional Territory of the Mississaugas.

Maan Patel

Data Processing Specialist
As a Data Processing Specialist at GLOCAL, Maan Patel supports data collection, analysis, and visualization for civic engagement programs focused on youth with disabilities. He is currently studying Software Engineering Technology at Centennial College. In his spare time, Maan enjoys exploring new technologies and spending time with friends and family.

Maan respectfully acknowledges that he is located on Treaty 1 territory, the traditional land of the Anishinaabeg, Cree, Oji-Cree, Dakota, and Dene Peoples, and the homeland of the Métis Nation.

Blair Maddock-Ferrie

Community Social Development Officer

Zaynah Mohamad

Community Liaison Worker
Zaynah is a dedicated political science graduate with a strong focus on social justice, multiculturalism, and advocacy for marginalized communities. Zaynah works in the Outreach Department, networking with political legislators in a commitment to create positive change.Through both her professional and volunteer efforts, Zaynah remains deeply committed to advancing equality and inclusivity.

I would like to respectfully acknowledge that I am located on the unceded territory of Mi'kma'ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi'kmaq people.

Olivia Mesquita

Community Social Development Officer
As a Community Social Development Officer at GLOCAL, Olivia builds relationships with underserved youth, amplifying their voices. She is entering her fourth year at the University of Western Ontario, studying a Major in Psychology and a minor in Gender, Sexuality, and Women's Studies. In her spare time, Olivia enjoys going on long walks, enjoying time with her friends, and volunteering within the mental health community.

Olivia respectfully acknowledges that she is located on the traditional territories of the North, West, South and Eastern directions, and Haudenosaunee, Huron-Wendat, Anishinaabe, Seneca, Chippewa, and the current treaty holders, Mississaugas of the Credit peoples.

Nooria Diwagali

Community Liaison Worker
Nooria Diwagali is a dedicated advocate for women’s empowerment, specializing in business development, education, and health initiatives. With a background in community outreach, she has led programs that equip Afghan women and girls with essential skills and resources to thrive. Nooria is passionate about creating inclusive opportunities and fostering sustainable growth within underserved communities.

Sydney Weaver

Community Social Development Officer

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