About Us
Core Values
Live Your Potential
Board
Andrea Thomas
(Chair)
Growing up in the inner city of Kingston, Jamaica has given her a passion for the plight of the “underprivileged.” She considers herself a social and community activist who has spent her time advocating for change to systems she sees as being unjust or unfair.
Being aware of the problems within the black community particularly with our youth, Andrea wanted to be a part of the solution and thus A.F.I.Y.U. Enterprise was conceptualized to fill some of the gaps that plague these youth. Passion and heart is what drives her and with her strong faith, she believes she is fulfilling a call.
Danielle Chang Gardner
R.S.W, B.S.W, M.S.W
Danielle is a Registered Social Worker and has acquired over 10 years of Social Work experience. During that time she has worked within the non-profit, education, and government sectors. Through this she has gained experience with mental health, child welfare, research, counselling, mediation, and consultation. Danielle has completed both a Bachelor and Masters of Social Work from York University and now specializes in Relationship and Couples' Counselling.
By practicing from an anti-oppressive framework committed to diversity, equity and inclusion and implementing a solutions focused approach her aim is to enable her clients to realize their strengths and empower them to take the necessary steps towards health, happiness and successful relationships. Danielle brings her experience in Child Welfare to AFIYU and with her background and education she adds a wealth of experience to the roster.
Madhu Saikumar
Board Member (Youth Initiatives)
Madhu Saikumar is a wife and mother of 2 with a successful career as a Financial Analyst. Working for most of her adult life she feels a deep need to give back to her community in a positive way. Her focus on youth development aligns her perfectly with the mission of AFIYU and she is grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the mission.
Sandra Skrypczinski
Board Member (Events)
Sandra Skrypczinski is a highly experienced and compassionate Registered Nurse with over 40 years of dedicated
service in the healthcare field. Her career has been defined by her unwavering commitment to patient care, innovation and mentorship making her a respected professional among her peers. An advocate for social change and community support, Sandra is particularly passionate about Black youth mental health and development. She actively supports initiatives that uplift and empower young people as she understands the critical role mental wellness
plays in shaping their future. Her dedication to this cause underscores her belief in the value of nurturing the next generation making her a
strong ally in creating positive change. With a life filled with purpose, curiosity and care, Sandra continues to inspire those around her and embraces every opportunity to grow, support others and make a meaningful impact in her community and beyond.
Karen Lawrence
(Vice-Chair)
Karen Lawrence is a dedicated mother, grandmother, and sister in Christ with a heart for service. She brings over 25 years of experience as an Office Administrator across the education, legal, and nonprofit sectors and has been part of A.F.I.Y.U. for the past two years. Inspired by her experience raising two sons, Karen is passionate about the impact A.F.I.Y.U. has on families and communities. In her free time, she enjoys serving at her church, spending time in nature, and connecting with friends, and she welcomes opportunities to engage others, especially men, as mentors to support the organization’s mission.
