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A HISTORY RICH IN STEAM

 

2inspire Foundation Canada (formerly incorporated as the Children’s Science Enrichment Foundation) was first established in 1997 with the vision of bringing the STEM experiential learning programs from its for-profit sister company Mad Science Group to children who could not afford it.

Today, under the 2inspire brand, our Foundation works with Mad Science Group Inc., CrayolaⓇ Imagine Arts Academy™ and other strategic partners to design the most innovative STEAM curricular and extracurricular resources for youth to help them thrive academically and become agents of change in their communities.

In order to achieve our mission we will:

  1. Build innovative STEAM experiential programs for schools to use during class and in after-school programs, to help improve students’ confidence in these subjects.
  2. Partner with corporations, government and foundations to make educational STEAM programs available, for free or low-cost, to youth who face barriers accessing these resources.
  3. Provide teachers and parents with at-home STEAM resources and experiences that enable youth to develop critical thinking skills, confidence and knowledge.
  4. Connect Canadian youth to international youth and STEAM role models worldwide. Build awareness and opportunities for youth to pursue STEM/STEAM career paths.

OUR BOARD

 

2inspire Foundation’s Board of Directors provides our organization with strategic advice and guidance to fulfill our mission to inspire and support STEAM education across Canada. In December 2021, the 2inspire Foundation elected three temporary board members to build the organization’s first independent governing board and strategic business plan for 2022-2025.

Sharon King

Vice President, Research & Development and Franchise Operations, Mad Science Group Inc.

Sharon King has 24 years of experience in children’s educational program development. She joined Mad Science Group Inc. in August 1996 as the company’s first program developer. As creative head for the Research and Development team, Sharon combines her science education expertise with a passion for engaging kids’ imaginations and her solid understanding of the Mad Science and CrayolaⓇ Imagine Arts Academy™ businesses in a global network. As a long-term member of Mad Science, she understands the skills and resources needed for the growth of the franchise system. Having managed a team consisting of local and outsourced employees, and working with a grassroots-based network of franchisees, the education community and the corporate world, she is a proven project manager in the education and business sectors. She currently supports two teams as Vice President of Research and Development and Franchise Operations. Outside of work, she is a leader in local community groups including Girl Guides of Canada, mentoring young girls in leadership and community service.

Shafik Mina

President and CEO, Mad Science Group Inc.

Shafik Mina is a serial entrepreneur, President and co-owner of Mad Science Group Inc. and co-founder of 2inspire™ and Crayola® Imagine Arts Academy™. Shafik joined Mad Science Group Inc. as in-house counsel in June of 2009. In 2012, he was named President and, in 2016, he became co-owner. Having conducted business in over 30 countries, his business background and entrepreneurial experience allow him to bring a highly valued and pragmatic approach to his role as President. Outside of his career, Shafik is a business mentor and a value investor for a handful of innovative startups, as well as a dynamic presenter on a variety of business topics. He is committed and passionate about bringing STEAM programs to children all around the world. Shafik holds a Bachelor Degree with Honors in Political Science, a Juris Doctorate in Common Law and a Bachelor in Civil Law. He is a member of the Quebec Bar and the Law Society of Upper Canada. In 2016, Shafik was selected to participate in the Governor General’s Leadership Conference.

Sofia Marquez

Consultant/ Project Manager, Mad Science Group Inc.

Sofia is a consultant with 10+ years of experience in communications, business development strategy and public policy. She is an effective writer and liaison between government, non-for-profit organizations and the private sector. Sofia is passionate about advancing social impact through youth education policy, social justice and human rights. Sofia is a driven professional, resourceful and able to reach people and organizations from diverse backgrounds effectively and comfortably. She believes that when people work together and share their born-given luck, new and better realities are created for everyone! Sofia is passionate about supporting organizations offering resettlement and social services that help new immigrants in Canada such as VENCAN Network. She is an avid salsa dancer, hiker, cyclist, and writer. In the summer, Sofia loves to ride her motorcycle and travel.

Our Partners

 

2inspire Foundation Canada is proud to work with diverse organizations, including post-secondary education; science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) agencies; industry and community organizations to enhance children and youths’ confidence and excitement for STEAM literacy across Canada.

Thank you to the participating organizations, corporations and donors that make our mission possible.