About IDEA

Mark Nakamura (he/him) – IAG Chair

Mark has been a cottager in Muskoka Lakes for 26 years. Now retired, he dedicates his time to health equity and anti-racism. His career includes roles at the Ontario Human Rights Commission, Immigration and Refugee Board, and the Health Professions Appeal and Review Board. He has served on the boards of the Alzheimer Society of Toronto, Japanese Family Services, and other community organizations.

Lynda Nicholson (she/her)

A member of the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation, Lynda is a mother, grandmother, and social worker. Having grown up in the child welfare system, she reconnected with her Indigenous culture while earning her honours Bachelor of Social Work and Master of Social Work. She is also an award-winning author of two books exploring the Indigenous foster care experience.

Penny Middleton (she/her)

A retired educator, Penny focuses on teaching for diversity and social justice. She has lived experience of prejudice and has raised two children as a single parent. Passionate about equity, she works towards making Muskoka a welcoming and safe place for all residents, cottagers, and visitors

Glad Bryce (she/her)

A longtime member of the IAG Champions Committee, Glad is a strong advocate for seniors and has chaired the IDEA Conference on Hate-Free Muskoka. She is a grandmother of three granddaughters and a trans grandson and supports trans representation in IDEA initiatives. 

Joanna Matthews (she/her)

Joanna is a consultant with 19 years of experience in non-profit leadership, specializing in housing, mental health, and addiction services. She resides in Huntsville and actively volunteers for local inclusion initiatives.

Heather White (she/her)

The owner and artist behind Muskoka Fine Line, Heather holds a BA in Sociology & World Religions from McMaster University. She identifies as a member of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and is dedicated to creating a safe and inclusive Muskoka. 

Alex McDonald (she/her)

With more than two decades of teaching experience in Bracebridge, Alex is a passionate parent and educator dedicated to promoting equity and inclusion for all learners. She has advocated for gender diversity at the local, provincial, and national levels through her work with multiple advisory groups. Alex is thrilled to bring this lifelong commitment to the district's IAG. 

Hannah Lin (she/her) – YWCA Muskoka

With 30+ years in non-profits, Hannah is the Executive Director of YWCA Muskoka. She has a BA in English and Culture Studies, a background in community development, and is an accomplished textile artist. 

Nicole Moore (she/her) – Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Muskoka-Parry Sound

A registered social worker and therapist, Nicole has worked in non-profits supporting individuals with mental health challenges, addiction, and trauma. She has lived in Muskoka for over 20 years.

Kelsea Shadlock (she/her) – Town of Huntsville

A Senior Planner and lifelong Lake of Bays cottager, Kelsea is learning how to be an ally and is working to support Huntsville in addressing systemic discrimination.

Rev. Carol-Ann Chapman (she/her) – Trinity United Church, Gravenhurst

Since moving to Muskoka in 2021, Carol-Ann has been an advocate for 2SLGBTQ+ inclusion. She has a background in early childhood education and youth support and serves on local boards.

Amy Burdick (she/her) – Simcoe Muskoka Family Connexions

A Child Protection Worker in Orillia, Amy has worked in child and family therapy. She grew up in Muskoka and is committed to supporting racialized youth and families.

Suzanne Willett (she/her) – Community Living Huntsville

Suzanne is the Executive Director of Community Living Huntsville, with a background in human resources and operations. She is committed to equity, inclusion, and community building, and supports sector-wide collaboration through provincial and local leadership roles. 

Amy Carriere (she/her) – Muskoka Algonquin Health Care (MAHC) 

Amy is the Co-Chair of the IDEA Committee at MAHC, where she supports workplace inclusion, healing, and community relationships. With a background in volunteer disaster relief and youth fitness programming, she is committed to creating safe and inclusive spaces for diverse communities.