The Courage to Act Foundation is a national non-profit dedicated to addressing and preventing gender-based violence and fostering safer, more equitable institutions across Canada.

Our Story

Founded as an extension of Possibility Seeds’ Courage to Act project, the Foundation continues to advance impactful, nationwide change in gender-based violence through intervention, prevention, and institutional safety.

We are driven by our belief in a safer, more equitable future where all relationships are rooted in care, respect, and accountability. Our national network of 4800+ experts and advocates translate research into action, focusing on key issues impacting women, girls and gender-diverse people, with attention on those most impacted by gender inequity. Our work looks beyond to see what's possible: a just economy and society that works for all.

Our work is shaped by:

  • Equity: We work to ensure fairness, justice, and equality in everything we do.

  • Curiosity: We value learning, innovation, and asking the right questions to find new solutions.

  • Empathy: We lead with compassion and understanding in all our approaches.

  • Inclusion: We are committed to creating environments where all voices are respected and valued.

What We Do

The Courage to Act Foundation collaborates with grassroots movements, organizations, institutions and communities as a national non-profit to develop tools, resources, and strategies that foster safe, inclusive spaces.

Our focus includes:

  • Designing prevention and response resources and strategies for gender-based violence.

  • Supporting all those affected by gender-based violence with trauma-informed, evidence-based approaches.

  • Partnering with organizations and institutions to build cultures of care, accountability, and respect.

  • Collaborating with governmental and non-governmental organizations to advance research, policy, and legislative recommendations for systemic change.

MEET THE TEAM

  • Anoodth Naushan (she/her), Executive Director

  • Aubrianna Snow (she/her), Project Manager

  • Joannie Fogue Mgamgne (she/her), Francophone Project Coordinator

  • Kirsty Pazek-Smith (she/her), Stakeholder Relations Specialist

  • Jocelyn Courneya (she/her), Communications Consultant

  • Britney De Costa (she/her), Research & Policy Analyst

  • Salina Abji (she/her), Evaluation Consultant

  • Maya Kotlarenko (she/her), HR, Finance & Operations Specialist

  • Leon (they/them), Web Designer

  • Kitty Rodé (they/them), Graphic Designer

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

  • Dr. Jesmen Mendoza (he/him)

  • Deb Eerkes (she/her)