Our Board of Directors

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Even though she is originally from Argentina, Lorena grew up in Brazil, where her family still resides.

She holds a degree in Human Resources, teaching and training adults. Lorena’s passion for leadership started in 1998 when she was managing a training cargo department for Dangerous Goods at TAM Brazilian Airlines, and played a pivotal role as part of the Committee for Latin America overseeing Dangerous Goods cargo.

In 2002, destiny took Lorena to Canada, initially to improve her English skills and advance her career in the Airline Industry. However, fate had a surprise for her in Toronto, where she learned she was expecting a child.  

Bryan, her son, was born at 27 weeks of gestation, weighing only 880 grams – a tiny, healthy, resilient baby. Yet, just 10 days later, he faced a severe sepsis infection blood infection, leaving him with numerous complications, including hydrocephalus ( water in the brain) cerebral palsy, blindness, seizures and the necessity of being fed through a g-tube.

In the face of these challenges, Lorena had to give up everything she had dreamed of, on her career and family in Brazil, and decided to stay in Canada where she could access the specialized support required to care or her son’s complex needs.

When Bryan turned 4 years old, he started attending a school for the blind at High Park, and  Lorena started a full-time role working at RBC in 2007 to provide a better quality of life for her family. As a single mom, juggling work, doctor appointments and emergencies was not easy, but Lorena has gotten strength and support from the community.

Recognizing the critical gaps in support for individuals like Bryan who reached adulthood, she took action. When Bryan turned 18 years old, Lorena founded a non-profit organization called “Dance to Shine”, that hosted monthly dance nights for young adults and youth. These events featured a DJ with Down Syndrome, offering an inclusive and joyful space.

The lack of support in the system is a real problem, with no affordable or specialized programs for kids, like Bryan, with complex needs.

In 2022, Lorena co-founded a non-profit organization called Bryan’s Place alongside 3 like-minded mothers,  creating a vibrant community dedicated to supporting parents of special needs children and their remarkable kids.

In July 2023, Bryan’s Place achieved charitable status. This milestone has ignited Lorena’s excitement for the future, as Bryan’s Place will be able to grow and support the special needs community with affordable programs such as respite, resources for families, funding and other programs like moms camp and holiday celebrations.

Maria is originally from the Dominican Republic. She holds a dentist's degree and also graduated from developmental services work (DSO) and personal support work (PSW ) degrees. 

In 1996, Maria came to Canada with her son Brayan, who has autism and developmental delay. Her motivation? To provide better opportunities for her son.

Seven years later, Maria welcomed her second child, Michael, who faced health challenges of his own, including developmental delay due to growth hormone deficiency. As a single mother, she put her life on hold to dedicate herself in full to her children.

Today, Maria is a part of "Bryan’s Place," an organization offering support to families with special needs. Her story is a testament to a mother's boundless love and her commitment to a brighter future for all families.

Maria Ramirez's journey embodies courage, love, and sacrifice, showing us that a mother's love knows no limits.

Gordon grew up in the Halton Hills countryside. As a young boy, he learned the value of helping neighbours when the call came. Recognizing that one of the most rewarding gifts in life is helping others in need. Whether big or small, these acts bring us together as a community. Gordon’s mission is to promote this spirit of caring and give a voice to Bryan’s Place in the world.

“I deeply admire the dedication of parents and caregivers, as their work is a 24-hour job filled with endless challenges. Their struggle is real, and it’s crucial that we provide the support they need. It’s a pleasure for me to be part of such a worthy cause and to make a difference in the lives of young people.

Witnessing the strength and perseverance of those around me has inspired me to advocate for increased resources and assistance for families and caregivers. Through Bryan’s Place, I aim to foster an environment where every child and family can thrive, knowing they have a community that stands behind them. Let us come together to support one another, uplift those in need, and build a brighter future for everyone.”

Lorena, originally from Mexico City, built her career in Business Administration, specializing in the Printing industry. She has extensive experience in managing and overseeing Engineering, as well as Graphic and Structural Design departments. Currently, she works as a bookkeeper and payroll specialist in Toronto, Canada. 

In 2013, Lorena’s second child, Luisa, was born in Montreal under challenging circumstances. Following a difficult birth, Luisa faced significant health challenges, leading Lorena and her family to move to Toronto in 2015 in search of better care and resources for her children, including her first-born.

Luisa was initially diagnosed with cerebral palsy in Mexico, followed by a diagnosis in 2018 of GAND syndrome (GATAD2B-associated neurodevelopmental disorder), a rare genetic condition. Despite developmental delays, autism, and other health complexities, Luisa continues to thrive, bringing joy to her family, and began walking at the age of three.

Driven by her experiences and the challenges her family faces, Lorena dreams of creating a lifelong learning environment for Luisa—one that fosters her growth and allows her to engage with peers in a supportive and joyful setting.

In May 2022, Lorena took a major step toward realizing this vision with the establishment of Bryan’s Place, an initiative aimed at providing support for children with similar challenges, while also helping their families navigate the unique journey they face.