Our Team
Emily Branje
Managing Director and Independent Facilitator
More
Hello my name is Emily Branje and I am the Managing Director of Facile Perth. I was raised and went to school in Perth and Huron counties before moving away and starting my career. I love living and working once again in the communities I am most passionate about.
My passion for this work is rooted in my personal relationships to people who have a disability and my desire to see people live meaningful lives firmly rooted in community. For the past 16 years, I have been an active member of the inclusion movement working in community development roles at the local, provincial and national levels. I have primarily worked with youth, families and survivors of institutions. I believe that community connection and reciprocal relationships are the beating heart of a good life. I am eager to work with people, their families, organizations and community neighborhoods who think creatively to implement strategies that are sustainable and offer people meaningful opportunities, valued participation, respect and belonging.
Mirjam Schut
Independent Facilitator
More
Hello!
My name is Mirjam Schut, and I’m an Independent Facilitator for Facile Perth. I grew up in the Netherlands, earned my bachelor’s degree in Social Work, and worked as a social worker before moving to Canada in 2010.
My motto is: “Reach for the stars.” I believe in looking at possibilities, strengths, and passions, helping people dream big and achieve their goals. It’s an honour to walk alongside individuals and families, supporting them in building the life they want.
Leading Facile Perth was a rewarding experience, but my true passion lies in working directly with people and fostering strong, inclusive communities. I see community as a first resource — full of opportunities for connection, belonging, and growth.
Knocking on closed doors until they open, helping people become their own advocates, and seeing them flourish in their homes, workplaces, and relationships is what makes this work so meaningful.
I look forward to connecting and working with you!
Shannon Campbell
Independent Facilitator
More
Hello!
My name is Shannon Campbell, and I am proud to serve as an Independent Facilitator for Facile Perth. I moved to Stratford 25 years ago, and since then, I have come to deeply appreciate everything this vibrant community has to offer.
Over the past 15 years, I have held a variety of roles within the Developmental Services Sector, providing me with the opportunity to deepen my knowledge and enhance my ability to serve others at a more meaningful and impactful level.
I am committed to creating spaces where ideas can flow freely, where collaboration thrives, and where everyone feels heard and valued. I pride myself on thinking outside of the box and empowering individuals to connect, grow, and achieve greater results through tailored facilitation and collaboration.
I am excited to help people unlock their full potential and drive impactful change.
Danielle Schalk
Communications Coordinator
More
My name is Danielle Schalk, and I am Facile Perth’s Communications Coordinator.
I grew up in North Perth before moving to Toronto to attend university. Now, living in Kitchener/Waterloo, I still feel deeply connected to Huron-Perth, as it is home to most of my friends and family.
I am an award-winning business writer, but my interests and expertise are wide ranging. My education in Journalism and Media Studies provided me with a broad foundation, and a decade of working in print and digital media has provided me with experience creating for a wide range of media platforms.
I also use my skills to express myself creatively. I am also a published poet, and I’m passionate about art and photography.
Board of Directors 2024-25
Wolfgang Struss, Acting President and Treasurer
Wolfgang is the past executive director of Community Living St. Marys. He supports Independent Facilitation as a way for people to enhance self-determination and choice in their lives. Wolfgang is also our contact person in case of any complaints.
Nichola Taylor, Secretary
Nichola worked as an independent facilitator for Facile Perth in its early days and currently works as a social worker in private practice. She is a strong believer in independent facilitation and believes it can be very useful both within and outside of developmental services – helping people from all walks of life connect to their communities, fight loneliness, reduce isolation and ultimately lead full, meaningful lives.
Joe Lambert, Director
Joe is a public speaker and author. He sits on Canada’s National de-institutionalization task force. Joe’s lived experience and voice at board meetings is important to the integrity of our work. Joe and his wife have experienced independent facilitation themselves.
Vicky Wolfe Hinz, Director
Vicky is a parent member. Her son McKenzie has an Independent Facilitator who has helped him transition from high school to adulthood.
Martin Ritsma, Director
Martin is a retired high school principal and is a very active member in the Stratford community. Through his work as a high school principal he has seen the importance of inclusion and the importance of transition planning for those leaving the school system.
Christine Wick, Director
Christine is a parent member. Her son Nate will be transitioning from high school to life after school in the next few years. Christine believes in the importance of building belonging and community in order to live a life filled with purpose, meaning, and most of all genuine friendship and love.
Stephanie Gratton, Director
Bio to come.
Manmeet Bedi, Director
Manmeet, an entrepreneur focused on enhancing patient care outcomes through use of technology, has expertise in production, accounting, investments, and technology. Manmeet and his wife Sonia have two boys and they lived in India and Dubai, before relocating to Stratford in April 2024. They are committed to advancing transition supports for young adults with disabilities leaving school. Their elder son is set to transition from high school in the next two years.