Region 1
Mike Greene
Mike Greene is a Child and Youth Worker at the Child and Parent Resource Institute in London, which is a tertiary level children’s treatment facility. The Child and Parent Resource Institute provides specialized assessment, treatment and targeted interventions for children and youth with complex special needs and mental health challenges.Mike is currently the Local 112 President and has held this position since 2017. Mike has been the Worker Co-Chair for the Joint Health and Safety Committee at CPRI since 2015. Mike is currently the MCCSS Unified MERC Health and Safety Representative and is the current CPRI representative on the MCCSS Unified Alternate Dispute Resolution Committee. Previously, Mike was a Chief Steward and began his union activism as a shop steward.Mike enjoys engaging with members of OPSEU/SEFPO and providing them with information and knowledge regarding their collective agreement and other legislative protections.Mike believes that we increase our power as a union by developing an informed and active membership and that it is vitally important that union representatives listen to the needs and requirements of members.
Dionne Jacobs
With 23 years of experience as a Registered Practical Nurse, Dionne Jacobs brings a strong voice for fairness and teamwork to her new role as Union Mobilizer. Currently studying for Paralegal Licensing (2026), Dionne is passionate about continuing her journey in Labour Relations.
Outside of work, she loves travelling and spending time with her grandchildren, who keep her smiling and inspired every day.
We’re excited to have Dionne on board as she helps strengthen our union and support our members!
Olivia Misic
My name is Olivia Misic and I joined the OPS in 2016 as an Ambulance Communications Officer with the Ministry of Health, in Windsor. I am the Co-Chair with the Local Employee Relations Committee and I also hold a position as a Joint Health and Safety Rep. I studied at the University of Windsor and have an Honours Degree in Criminology and a minor in Labour Studies. I am married with two beautiful children. I love warm weather and being outside gardening. As a family we love to travel and really enjoy camping. I’m very into natural things and I like to use essential oils.I believe that it is very important to be engaged to create a change. I know and understand the major disconnect people have with the union and I am excited to help with that change. Over the last year I have increased my involvement with the union, learning that we are the union. I am a first time mobilizer and am very excited to increase the participation amongst others in the union. I want to continue to help others get involved and get more people excited about making a better environment for their workplace.
Region 2
Novia Grant-Simon
Novia started as a treasurer and steward and is now the vice president of OPSEU/SEFPO Local 219. Novia for the Ministry of Education at W Ross McDonald School for the Deafblind and Visually Impaired. This school falls under the umbrella of several Provincial and Demonstration Schools.Novia has always had a passion for motivating and supporting others, so naturally being involved in the union was the right decision for her.In 2015 Novia was invited to attend meetings for Region 2 Workers of Colour Caucus. Novia jumped right in getting involved; attending regular meetings, inputting ideas and executing tasks. Events such as our annual Black History Forum and BBQs are outcomes of Novia’s involvement. Novia had the honor and pleasure of sitting on the planning committee for the first ever Workers of Colour Caucus Conference. The committee has grown, and with growth comes change and once again, Novia was proud to be a part of the caucus, when they unanimously decided to change the name of the caucus to the Coalition of Racialized Workers.Throughout her time as a union activist Novia has participated in mobilizing through the VOTE BETTER Campaign, she has attended various rallies, numerous educationals and has worked in an Acting position, as OPSEU/SEFPO Staff Rep for Region 2.At W Ross McDonald School, Novia sits on the LERC committee as Co-Chair.Novia is currently 1 of 14 OPS Unified mobilizers, for this round of bargaining and looks forward to the challenges and successes involved in mobilizing OPS Unified members.
Laura Thompson
Laura is excited to be a first time Mobilizer!Laura is an Educational Assistant at W Ross Macdonald School for the Blind and Visually Impaired through the Ministry of Education.Laura’s involvement in OPSEU began a couple years ago when she joined the LERC committee with the idea that change begins the moment you stop waiting for someone else to start it. Last year, Laura became vice chair Area Co-ordinator for Region 2.In her spare time, Laura enjoys a good true crime show, reading and attempting to maintain her sanity while keeping up with her husband, kids and plethora of dogs and cats.Small actions build revolutions – start with one and build on it!
Jackie Nicholls
Jackie Nicholls began her journey with the Ontario Public Service (OPS) in 2013 and has since dedicated her career to serving at the Ministry of Children, Community Social Services, Ontario Disability Support Program. With a Master of Social Work from the University of Windsor, Jackie brings both academic insight and lived experience to her advocacy.Jackie’s involvement with OPSEU/ SEFPO was sparked by her firsthand experience within the OPS. Driven by a desire to make a difference, Jackie immersed herself in union life- attending General Membership Meetings, Educations, Conventions, and more. Her leadership path began with roles such as Health and Safety Representative and Secretary on the Local Executive Committee.Today, Jackie proudly serves as: President at Local 224, Union Steward and the Local Employee Relations Committee (LERC) rep. at the ODSP office in Owen Sound.Jackie is passionate about communication, engagement, and advocacy. She believes in making sure every member feels heard and supported.Outside of work, Jackie enjoys traveling, playing guitar, and learning Espanol. Her faith is a guiding force in her life and brings the same spirit of purpose to her union work.This is Jackie’s first time as a mobilizer, and she’s thrilled to deepen her knowledge of OPSEU/SEFPO and connect with members . Together, she believes, “we can make a difference”.
Bryan Drury
Bryan Drury started his OPS career in 1997 as a Correctional officer and is currently an Inspector with the Ministry Of Finance. Bryan is active in his local, holding down the position of VP for Local 201 and has served several terms on the Joint Health and Safety Committee.Bryan is excited to assist the bargaining team as a Mobilizer, utilizing the skills obtained through various positions in the OPS and the experience of being a VP for the Local.Bryan is married with 3 children, 2 dogs and 3 Cats. Bryan’s spouse is also involved in the labour movement, serving as VP in a CUPE Local. Bryan in his spare time is a hockey coach and an OHL Scout for the Niagara Ice Dogs.
Region 3
Chris McConnell
My name is Chris McConnell (they/them), and I became involved in the labour movement because it stands for more than just better wages and benefits—it’s about building the power to address the deeper issues that shape our lives as workers. I’ve engaged as a mobilizer because the rank and file must actively lead and are the key to our power and success.The phrase we often hear is,
“You are the union.” It’s not a slogan—it’s a fact. Our decisions are driven by those who are engaged, pay attention, speak up and take action.I want to help more people recognize the power they already have. Too often, cynicism and distrust hold us back, leaving us unable to face challenges. We can change that. We can rebuild hope and create a shared path where every member knows their voice matters.
Aleda Woolley
Aleda Woolley is a first time mobilizer working out of Region 3 and a dedicated OPSEU member and Union Steward. Aleda has been employed with OPS since 2019 both with The Ministry of the Attorney General and now for the Ministry of Children Community and Social Services. Aleda became a steward and a mobilizer as she has a passion for helping and supporting others as well as fighting for what we deserve which are better wages, better benefits, a better working environment and a better work-life balance.In her spare time, Aleda loves going to the drive-in theatre just up the street from her and nature walks alongside her son and 2 dogs.
Ciji Correia
Ciji Correia is a dedicated mobilizer for region 3 with the OPS Unified campaign, driven by a commitment to advancing workplace engagement, fair wages, better benefits for members and work-life balance. With 13 years of experience with the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services, spanning Toronto and Central 1 regions, Ciji has championed social justice, workplace safety, and equitable treatment for both colleagues and the communities they serve.An active union leader, Ciji has held multiple executive roles, including VP, Acting President, and currently serves her second term as 1st Vice President of Local 310. She is also a seasoned member and certified co-chair of the Joint Health and Safety Committee and has served as a fire warden and information steward, consistently prioritizing the well-being of office members and visitors.Currently pursuing a Labour Studies Certificate from McMaster University, Ciji is passionate about expanding her expertise in labour activism. Her advocacy is fuelled by a genuine desire to help others—both through her union responsibilities and her long-standing service in social work. In her spare time, Ciji nurtures her creative side, bringing fresh perspectives and energy to all her endeavours.
Region 4
Kendall (Ken) Hopson
Ken is marking 17 years as a dedicated member of the OPS Unified. He is currently in his second term as Vice President with Local.410, he also co-chairs the Employee Relations Committee and is an OSHA-certified co-chair for the Joint Health and Safety Committee at the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS) in Ottawa.Through his work with the Ontario Disability Support Program, Ken has gained a unique perspective on visibility and voice, reinforcing his commitment and dedication as a union champion. Ken embodies a “Ken-Do” attitude, always ready to act, mobilize, and unify OPS members.Known for his stout advocacy for OPSEU and its members, Ken has held roles such as Steward, Secretary of Local 410, and Secretary for the Ottawa Area Council. He actively volunteers for community projects and has also been involved in past NDP elections.As we approach a critical round of bargaining, Ken emphasizes the importance of active participation from all members. His inbox and phone are always open for meetings, discussions, or just to listen. Ken is eager to connect with as many OPSEU members as possible, regardless of their local, to ensure their voices are heard.
Oren Nimelman
Oren works as a deckhand on the Wolfe Island Ferry in Kingston. He says that his role used to be able to support a family a generation ago, but it’s withered over time to a workforce heavily mired in fixed-term contracts and wages that can’t support the life that it used to.Before coming to the OPS, Oren was an infantry reservist in the Canadian Armed Forces, worked in private-sector operations management, and he spent some time doing industrial sales. Shifting away from private-sector work, Oren gained experience in political organizing as a campaign’s handler for a federal campaign and a campaign manager during a provincial election. During a period of higher need, he briefly assisted in delivering and organizing aid projects in a crisis zone.Oren has been a longtime supporter of unions and a strong public sector, and is a newer member of OPSEU/SEFPO.He’s taken on this mobilizer role during contract negotiations because he wants our jobs to once again be something that a worker can build a stable, comfortable life around. Oren believes that if you work
any role that contributes to society, you should be able to support a household off of an honest workweek. Oren thinks that the slow decay of how our work is valued, in a huge part, is the result of the labour movement weakening in strength.He thinks it’s time to catch up.In his spare time, he enjoys his 1980s-era motorcycle, hunting, hiking, canoeing, cooking for the people he cares about, silversmithing fun jewelry for his friends, and saying unrepeatable things to his broken printer.
Hector Almendrades
Hector Almendrades has been an employment standards officer with the Ministry of Labour (MLITSD) for eight years, seeing firsthand the effects of government policy on the lives of working people. Drawn towards the interaction (and conflict) between employers and employees, it was a natural transition for him after taking a union role as a steward at Service Ontario three years prior.For Hector, during his career in the OPS it was hard to understand why his employer made certain decisions—why some positions were considered part-time while working full-time hours; why other employees were on several fixed-term contracts instead of permanent positions, seemingly forever; why the work conditions virtually ensured burnout; why even managers who were sympathetic to the challenges faced by their staff seemed powerless to change it—until he picked up his membership card and reached out to his local steward. In his journey he was finally able to understand the bigger picture of why these decisions were made, and then why he felt compelled to address them with his colleagues (now siblings).Hector has been a chief steward and secretary for his local, has participated in joint health and safety committees, represented members in one-on-one meetings with managers and in formal mediation and arbitration, and his local at Convention. He is thankful to continue the work that mobilizers have built before him and will happily carry the baton.He likes reading and thinks you should too and has been known to brew a bottle of mead or two.
Region 5
Suzette Maxwell
Suzette Maxwell-Pemberton is a Jamaican-born Canadian citizen. She grew up in a household that taught the values of
“it takes a village” and in a community that exemplified the responsibilities as a citizen by
“each one, teach one”. She is passionate about learning and educating our union membership so they too can fully equip and discerning about their future.Suzette is employed at The Ministry of the Attorney General, Court Services Division in the Superior Court of Justice and currently employed as a Recording Management Coordinator.In 2013, Suzette entered the world of Union and was elected a Steward for Local 526. Since then, Suzette has held the roles of, Local Secretary, President, JHSC Co-Chair, and LERC Co-Chair, Mobilizer, WHSC Instructor, and a Co-Facilitator for OPSEU/SEFPO Educational events.Suzette has expressed that, as a mobilizer she has met so many amazing, erudite and beautiful members who have inspired hope, a sense of justice for a better tomorrow. But feelings and hope won’t get us a fair contract nor address all of our current economic and community needs. She is inspired by the words of the song by the Right Honorable Robert Nesta Marley
:” Get Up! Stand Up! Stand Up for your Rights! Don’t Give Up the Fight! The path forward must be clear, this bargaining year, get organized, unit behind our bargaining team to ensure future success. Show up to demand a fair and deserving collective agreement.
For Our Time is indeed Now!Stephanie Purtill
Since 2006, Stephanie has been employed at The Ministry of the Attorney General, Court Services Division, first in the Ontario Court of Justice as a Court Reporter 1 and, since 2008, in the Superior Court of Justice, initially as a Realtime Court Reporter 2 and currently as a Court and Client Representative (CCR).Stephanie has served as a Steward for Local 526 first from 2013-2016 and again from 2020 to present and has held the roles of JHSC Co-Chair and LERC Member. Currently, she is a second-time Region 5 (R5) Mobilizer and a Greater Toronto Area Council (GTAC) Delegate. She holds a JHSC Certificate, WHSC Health & Safety Instructor Certificate, L1 & L2 Labour Community Activist Certificates, O4P Core Fundamentals Certificate, and is a trained R5 Educationals Co-Facilitator.Stephanie is a strong proponent of member education, she herself having taken, and been the beneficiary of, myriad R5 Educationals and OFL Prevention Link, Labour Community Services, Oakville District Labour Council (ODLC), and WHSC courses. She strives each day to share her gained knowledge and information with members to likewise empower and engage them in union activism, not only for their own but also for the collective’s (OPS Unified) best interest. Moreover, Stephanie is intent on unifying members to build solidarity, to act “as one,” and to recognize that we, each and every one of us, ARE the union and so must unite and focus on organizing, fighting, and winning the fair and better Collective Agreement all members deserve.
Christopher Doyle
Christopher is an Employment & Training Consultant with the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development and has worked within the Employment and Training Division for his entire career, assisting Ontarians in improving their marketable skills, literacy and numeracy, in connecting with gainful employment, and managing a large network of key community stakeholders.Christopher is currently the Vice President of Local 532, a LERC Co-chair and an active Steward representing members in his local through the grievance process. Chris is passionate about standing up to bad actors working for the employer and is motivated by a strong sense of social justice. He also firmly believes that the labour movement is an integral force for good in society now more than ever, and that collective action can move mountains.Chris spends his spare time with his family, building machines and playing the guitar and dreams of a day where Demagogues and Tech-bros are but a bad memory.
Kamran Ebrahimi
Kamran Ebrahimi serves as both Chair of the Area Coordinating Group and Mobilizer for Region Five within OPSEU, representing members across the Greater Toronto Area and York Region with purpose, integrity, and a strong commitment to equity. A longtime resident of Toronto’s many boroughs over the past several decades, Kamran brings a deep understanding of the communities he serves and the diverse challenges they face.With over 15 years of experience in Financial Management, Kamran has built a career helping families achieve financial independence—work that has shaped his values around empowerment, transparency, and long-term resilience. Before his current role at Local 579 within SolGen, where he works in the Resource Management Division, Kamran served within the Ministry of the Attorney General, further deepening his insight into Ontario’s public service landscape.As Chair of Region 5 Area Coordinating Group and Mobilizer, Kamran’s vision for Region Five is to build stronger connections between Locals, foster unity among members, and defend the future of public service careers. He is committed to ensuring that career direction and long-term protections are clearly defined—“in black and white”—within the collective agreement beyond 2030. His leadership is marked by collaboration, transparency, and a relentless drive to secure lasting progress for all members.Beyond his union work, Kamran is a passionate mentor and community advocate. He looks forward to engaging with Members and Local Presidents to explore how we can better support our unified OPSEU workforce and strengthen solidarity across Region Five.
Region 6
Gabrielle Gagne
Gabrielle began her journey with her union as a passionate and dedicated Donations Committee member. With a keen sense of community and a genuine desire to make a difference, she quickly gained the respect and admiration of her peers. Her enthusiasm and hard work did not go unnoticed, and soon she was appointed as the Donations Committee Chair. In this role, Gabrielle demonstrated exceptional leadership and organizational skills.As her commitment to the union grew, so did her responsibilities. Recognizing her potential, the members of her local union elected Gabrielle as their Vice President. In this prestigious position, she continues to advocate for workers’ rights, ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs are met. Her ability to foster collaboration and unity among members has been instrumental in driving the union’s success and growth.Outside of her union duties, Gabrielle enjoys a well-rounded and adventurous lifestyle. In her spare time, she can often be found playing music and publishing her original music on Apple Music and Spotify, where her talent and creativity shine through. She also has a deep love for the great outdoors, and spends much of her free time camping, fishing, and hunting. These hobbies allow her to connect with nature and recharge, bringing balance to her busy and fulfilling life.Through her dedication to her union and her love for her personal interests, Gabrielle exemplifies the qualities of a true leader and a well-rounded individual.
Michelle Oulton
Michelle started with OPS in 2012 with the Ministry of Environment, then settled into a Ministry of Labour role as a Program Assistant. She’s mingled with Bear Techs across the province during a contract for the Ministry of Natural Resources, and has been engaged in public work from the beginning. In the educational scene, Michelle knows the school board well, and has chaired Parent Councils and organized fundraisers & school events. In recent years, Michelle has participated in Union activities ranging from her local Timmins & District Labour Council, to attending OPSEU events to recently being elected Vice President at her Local. She also currently sits as chair of the Region 6 Area Coordinating Group.In her down time, Michelle is a scientist in the kitchen, concocting fermented beverages like Kombucha & root-beer Water Kefir. Being a small-town girl at heart, you can find her in her organic garden getting down with the bugs & rediscovering nature in between all the excitement of social events.Having been certified for the Organizing 4 Power course, and being an avid learner of Union philosophies, Michelle is turning her attention towards changing the narrative on Unions & revitalizing the movement.
Peggy Fleming
Peggy joined the OPS in 2014 and has held a variety of roles with the Ministry of the Attorney General, Court Services Division and Criminal Law Division throughout the southwestern and northern regions. She is currently a Case Management Coordinator with the Office of the Crown Attorney in Sudbury.Peggy has been active with OPSEU since joining the OPS and has served her Locals as Secretary, Steward and 2nd Vice President. She has also acted as Local Employee Relations Committee member and Health & Safety representative within her workplaces. Peggy enjoys serving members by attending meetings with management as union representative, as well as preparing grievances and attending initial grievance meetings with designated management representatives.Peggy looks forward to learning and growing in the OPS Unified Mobilizer role, engaging with OPSEU Members and supporting our Bargaining Team while they work to negotiate a Collective Agreement all OPS Unified Members can be proud of.
Rene Knight
René Knight is a passionate union leader and OPS Unified Bargaining Mobilizer in Region 6, bringing years of frontline experience and principled advocacy to the role. As the current Local President of OPSEU Local 634 since 2023 and a Shop Steward since 2020, René has been a driving force in enforcing collective agreements, chairing local meetings, and representing members with integrity and resolve.Professionally, René works as a Regional Contract Claims Analyst with the Ministry of Transportation, where he investigates and negotiates complex contract claims, interprets policy, and ensures fair outcomes across the province. His background in civil engineering and quality assurance gives him a sharp analytical edge and a deep understanding of the systems that shape public service work.René’s mobilizing style is rooted in listening, educating, and empowering members to take collective action. He believes that solidarity is built through transparency, trust, and a shared commitment to equity. Whether he’s leading a workplace discussion or supporting a member through a grievance, René brings clarity, compassion, and a fierce dedication to justice.Outside of union work, René enjoys playing Dungeons & Dragons, diving into video games, working out, and traveling to explore new places and cultures. These passions fuel his creativity, resilience, and ability to connect with members from all walks of life.
Region 7
Stefanie Bourelly
I started with the Ministry of Attorney General in 2017. I attended my first GMM in October 2017. I registered as a steward on that day, and since then i have developed my union activity greatly.Over the years I have held roles that include Local Secretary, Local Vice president and Acting Local President. I am currently the 2nd VP of the Thunder Bay District Area Council, Region 7 resolutions committee Representative, the Provincial Human Rights Committee alternate, and Region 7’s equity committee Secretary. I have also sat on committees with Health and Safety as a certified member, and the Local Employee Relations Committee. I believe in advocating for members and bringing awareness and engagement to union activities, and now I hope to achieve this awareness as the new mobilizer of Region 7.In my down time when not engaging in union activity, i love to go camping, spend time with my family and my dog, Finnigan Albus, attend concerts, and travel.
Ashlee Elliott
“I’m Ashlee Elliott, and I am a mobilizer from Region 7. I have been a member of the OPS for 10 years, and have recently been elected as president.I am also a member of MAG MERC, and I am the Vice Chair for the Region 7 ACG – meaning that I am an activist for the majority of my waking hours.My goals in my activism work involve succession planning – prepping the leaders of tomorrow to take over high level union positions; education – teaching members and locals about how to support themselves; and communication – being transparent about discussions and including members of all levels of engagement into the conversation.When I am not in union-mode I enjoy playing D&D, hanging out with my husband, and snuggling with my cats.”
Janet Ford
Janet has been a member of OPS since 2002 with the Ministry of Public and Business Service Delivery and Procurement -The Vital Statistics Office aka Office of the Registrar General/Service Ontario as an Adjudicator. She has strived for more roles in the Union since 2012 which coincided with a Cochlear implant and courage to challenge her comfort zone having navigated her adult life as a profoundly deaf person overcoming many barriers facing everyday life.She is a strong supporter of Workers Rights and Unions by attending Rallies and forging allyships supporting OSEPU/SEFPO Members in their roles. She has attended many Regional Educationals. Recently having attended the Canadian Labour Congress Womens’ Summer School 2025 in Hamilton. Becoming a Mobilizer for Region 7 is the pinnacle of sharing knowledge and getting the Membership engaged and supporting Members Rights in their workplaces.She is Past 2nd-VP of Local 736 before leaving the role for a Secondment at the Ministry of Health and then returning to her home position at the Ministry of Public and Business Service Delivery and Procurement. Equity liaison Office for 736 for 3 terms. A Steward since 2008.Disability Rights Caucus Representative from Region 7 since 2022. Elected Co-Chair of the Disability Rights Caucus in 2023. OPSEU/SEFPO Convention Credentials Committee Representative for Region 7. In her spare time she enjoys golfing in the summer and alpine skiing in the winter and mostly appreciating the beautiful natural scenery of Northwestern Ontario.
Christina Patsiatzis
Christina is an ODSP Caseworker with the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services, bringing over 15 years of public service experience. She began her career as a Child and Youth Worker in the Youth Justice sector within the Broader Public Service (BPS), where she also began her long-standing involvement in OPSEU/SEFPO union work.After 11 years in the Broader Public Service, Christina joined the Ontario Public Service (OPS) in 2020, amid the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. She quickly identified the need for strong local representation and stepped up as an OPSEU/SEFPO Local President. Her goal: to strengthen and organize the local membership and advocate for their rights.Christina is also proud to be a member of the OPS Unified Mobilizing Team, driven by her belief that OPS Unifiers deserve better. As a single mother, she knows firsthand the financial struggles working families face in an economy that demands more while offering less.She believes there’s no real path forward for workers under the current government unless they fight for it—standing together as union members, demanding fair wages, job security, and respect on the job.A proud first-generation Canadian, Christina is deeply committed to parenting—an experience that shaped her strong advocacy for workers’ rights, particularly around Family Status Accommodations and broader human rights issues.Outside work, Christina is a self-proclaimed foodie who enjoys exploring new cuisines, baking, and getting lost in music. She loves traveling to beach destinations and spending quality time with family. And when union battles get fierce, Christina channels her inner K-pop diva, blasting the anthem: “We’re goin’ up, up, up — it’s our moment… gonna be, gonna be golden.” Because if you’re going to fight for your rights, you might as well do it with sparkle and killer dance moves.
