Our Team

Matthew Newman

Founder & Head of Student Volunteers

Matthew, a young leader from Toronto, Canada, embodies a spirit of service and humility. Balancing the demands of high school and a part-time job, he has quietly led the Newman Global Initiative since 2016, directing substantial donations toward health, food, education, and refugee aid. In 2019, Matthew partnered with CNN Hero Dr. Ricardo Pun-Chong to raise funds for Inspira, touching the lives of over 1,000 families in Peru. His dedication to service also extends to organizations like the Refugee & Immigrant Assistance Center and Shanti Bhavan School.

While actively serving others, Matthew pursues his passions. A two-time MVP on his high school ski team and an advocate for mental health and youth engagement, he inspires peers to use their talents for the betterment of their community. His collaborative work with Mercedes to support Inspira and the Caritas School of Life further exemplifies his commitment to the common good.

Matthew’s diverse achievements and unwavering dedication to service, guided by his faith, demonstrate his desire to make a lasting positive impact on his community and the world.

Mercedes Tibollo

Managing Director, Global Strategies

Mercedes Tibollo is the Managing Director of Global Strategies at the Newman Global Initiative. Currently a dedicated medical student, Mercedes’ background includes studying Biology and Philosophy from St. Francis Xavier University and Biomedical Ethics from Memorial University of Newfoundland.

A newly published author, Mercedes penned the thought-provoking book Meditations from the Eye of the Storm, which reflects her deep engagement with the philosophy, growth, and a connection to the Divine. Most recently showcased at the International Congress of Law and Mental Health in Barcelona, Spain, Mercedes presented on the ethical foundations of Forensic Psychiatry.

Mercedes’ work is driven by a profound commitment to philanthropy, medicine, and philosophy, aligning perfectly with her leadership role at the Newman Global Initiative, where she focuses on developing and implementing global strategies for the organization’s impactful initiatives.

Ilaria DiBattista

Student President & Systems Architect

Hailing from the Greater Toronto Area, Ilaria blends academic excellence with a strong commitment to social change. Her volunteer work in mental health and addiction, paired with her achievements as a swimmer representing Canada in the Maccabiah Games, highlights her diverse talents.

Ilaria’s passion for mental health advocacy extends beyond personal interest. She has been pivotal in organizing events for mental health and addiction organizations while launching “Project Butterfly,” an online initiative aimed at enhancing reading comprehension and addressing educational disparities.

Beyond grassroots activism, Ilaria has partnered with renowned fashion brands Michael Kors and Jimmy Choo, leveraging these collaborations to amplify awareness and fundraising for mental health causes. By aligning with global names, she extends her advocacy to a broader audience.

Balancing a busy schedule, Ilaria remains focused on her academic and philanthropic goals. Her dedication and empathy inspire those around her, establishing her as a leader in her community.

Ilaria’s tireless efforts are set to leave a lasting impact in the field of mental health and addiction. Her passion, combined with her strategic approach, positions her as a rising force ready to create meaningful change on both local and global scales.

Megan Rajkumar

Student Vice President (USA)

Megan, a high school student in Orlando, Florida, excels academically and has been an active leader in the Newman Global Initiative (NGI) since 2021. Recognized with honors and a member of the National Society of High School Scholars, Megan also participates in student government, showcasing her leadership and commitment to community service.

Megan’s journey into philanthropy began at the age of 10, and her dedication to community service has only grown since then. In her role at NGI, she has led the “Mental Health Matters” campaigns, demonstrating strong advocacy for mental health awareness. Megan’s contributions to NGI’s global projects further highlight her determination to make positive changes both locally and globally.

In addition to her philanthropic efforts, Megan is known for her creative problem-solving skills. She initiates community projects and effectively mobilizes resources, inspiring her peers and garnering support for various causes. Megan’s notable impact is felt in both her school and the broader community, where she continues to lead and inspire others through her dedication and leadership.

Madelyn Rosso

Digital Transformation

Madelyn, a high-achieving student from Vaughan, Ontario, has made a significant impact through her involvement with the Newman Global Initiative (NGI) since 2020. Her commitment to mental health advocacy is evident in her active role in the “My Mental Health Matters” campaigns and her support for women’s bed-based programs, demonstrating her dedication to vital social issues. Madelyn’s ability to mobilize resources for community betterment is showcased by her successful fundraising efforts, securing three detox beds for those in need.

In addition to her philanthropic endeavors, Madelyn excels as a competitive soccer player, balancing her sports training with academic and extracurricular activities. Her discipline and teamwork on the field complement her academic pursuits, highlighting her multifaceted talents.

Madelyn aims to potentially pursue a career in public accounting, reflecting her analytical skills and strategic insight. Her academic achievements, combined with her community service and athletic prowess, position her as a well-rounded, ambitious individual, ready to make a significant societal impact. Madelyn’s dedication to making a difference, both locally and globally, sets her apart as a leader and an inspiration to her peers.

Emma Rosso

Student Vice President (Canada)

From a young age, Emma has shown a strong commitment to helping others. She has been actively involved in providing essential items to Toronto’s homeless and co-leading a significant mental health campaign for the Caritas School of Life. Emma’s caring and proactive nature shines through in her dedication to supporting vulnerable groups.

Emma’s interests also include the arts, particularly singing and acting. She and her sisters create and sell handcrafted tie-dye shirts, donating the proceeds to the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, demonstrating her dedication to making a meaningful impact.

Currently, Emma is a student at a Catholic high school in Vaughan, where she is diligently working towards earning her black belt in karate. This pursuit reflects her discipline and dedication, as well as her leadership qualities. Emma is actively involved in recruiting volunteers and organizing events at her school, embodying a spirit of service and community engagement. Her ability to inspire and motivate others demonstrates her natural leadership skills and her potential to create positive change in her community and beyond.

Emma’s multifaceted involvement in community service, the arts, and personal development showcases her as a well-rounded individual committed to making a difference.

Eric Newman

Junior Lead Project Capricorn

Eric is an 8th-grade student from Toronto, known for his prowess as a competitive mogul skier. He won a silver medal in the combined event at the 2024 Canadian National Jr. Moguls. Eric’s journey in fundraising and volunteering began at the age of 9, and he continues to support various organizations, including NGI, Caritas School of Life, Inspira, Shanti Bhavan, and Meagan’s Hug. Beyond his athletic and philanthropic pursuits, Eric also has a keen interest in the world of business and is a big fan of horse racing.

Nicole Newman

Junior Lead Project Butterfly

Nicole, an 8th-grade student, has been a dedicated volunteer since the age of 9 and is also the twin sister of Eric. She is a dynamic speaker who addresses a range of mental health issues, including human trafficking, the opioid crisis, and cyberbullying. Outside of her philanthropic work, Nicole enjoys sports such as volleyball, golf, and snowboarding. She actively contributes to fundraising and volunteer efforts for NGI, Caritas School of Life, Inspira, and Shanti Bhavan. Additionally, Nicole volunteers her time tutoring both Math and English to peers and younger students.

Matteo Triassi

Junior Volunteer

Matteo, a dedicated student, became a part of our team in 2021 and has been an active volunteer ever since. He plays a crucial role in our “My Mental Health Matters” campaigns and contributes significantly to fundraising efforts for Shanti Bhavan textbooks and Caritas School of Life detox beds. Additionally, Matteo has demonstrated exceptional speaking skills as one of the keynote speakers at our 2023 in-person event, focusing on mental health and addiction. Outside of his philanthropic commitments, Matteo is a competitive hockey player and a passionate skier.

Daniel Reyes Calderon

Junior Global Ambassador

A 13-year-old from Maple, Ontario, Daniel is passionate about sports, particularly soccer. As an aspiring goalkeeper playing at the representative level, he’s constantly improving his skills. Daniel is also leading NGI’s first major “Global Ambassador” program, an initiative to provide 100 desks to a school in Honduras.

Beyond the soccer field, Daniel is working towards his Bronze Medallion to become a certified Swim Instructor and Lifeguard. Fluent in both French and English, he’s also learning Spanish to connect with his Hispanic heritage.

In his free time, Daniel enjoys the strategic challenges of chess and other intellectual pursuits. He’s also an active junior volunteer, sharing his energy and enthusiasm to benefit his Maple community.

Alessia Rosso

Junior Lead “OpenArms” Canada

Since the age of 11, Alessia has been a dedicated volunteer with NGI, actively participating in mental health initiatives, educational programs, and Project Inspira in Peru. Now a freshman in high school, Alessia excels academically and enjoys reading and swimming. In 2024, she was recognized for her contributions by receiving her middle school’s community service award and the honor of being class valedictorian. Alessia also has a deep appreciation for culture and loves traveling, especially visiting her grandparents’ home in Southern Italy. With a keen interest in science, she aspires to pursue a career in the health professions.

Nayha Gill

Fundraiser

Nayha Gill, an 11th-grade student, is an honors student with distinction who excels in both academics and extracurricular activities. A regional and provincial DECA champion, Nayha is also a member of her school’s mock trial team. She has been a competitive swimmer with MSSAC and plays rugby, basketball, volleyball, and soccer at Mentor College. Nayha works as a certified lifeguard and swim instructor and dedicates her weekends to volunteering at The Shores Retirement Residence and the gurdwara. A travel enthusiast, she has visited over 13 countries, and she has been playing the piano since the age of five, currently pursuing Grade 6 at the Royal Conservatory of Music.