Jodi is a board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist in private practice. She is also a clinical assistant professor at Weill Cornell Medical College, devoting considerable focus to speaking, writing and making media appearances on her developmental approach to parenting in the age of digital technology. The catalyst to her ground-breaking book, SCREEN SMART PARENTING, was the work she has done, speaking nationally and internationally to physicians, educators and parents about managing digital technology. Having received international acclaim, her book was awarded the runner-up book of the year by the National Academy of Nursing and often makes the lists for the "must have" parenting books. Having received her B.A. from the University of Pennsylvania, she completed her medical training at the University of Tennessee and her residency in psychiatry at Weill Cornell College of Medicine, followed by a fellowship in pediatric psychiatry at Cornell. During her training, she received awards from the National Institute of Mental Health, the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Association of Women Psychiatrists. She lives with her husband and three children in New York City.

Bruce is Associate Professor and Executive Officer (Chair) of Educational Psychology at the Graduate Center of City University of New York, where he directs the Child Interactive Learning and Development (CHILD) Lab. Bruce's research investigates children's acquisition of cultural tools that are used to communicate and transmit knowledge, including language, writing, and digital technologies, and how this acquisition transforms cognitive development and learning. In his applied research, Dr.Homer studies the design and use of digital technologies for learning, particularly simulations and games. His research has been funded by a number of federal agencies, including the National Endowment for the Arts and the Institute for Educational Sciences, as well as by private foundations. Dr. Homer holds a B.Sc. from Dalhousie University, as well as an M.A. and Ph.D. from the University of Toronto. He lives in New York City with his wife and two teenage daughters.

Jan is a professor and the holder of the Paulette Goddard chair in Digital Media and Learning Sciences in the Steinhardt School at New York University. He also co-directs the Games for Learning Institute, a collaboration of several partner universities with initial support from Microsoft Research and the Motorola Foundation, dedicated to advancing the design, use, and evaluation of computer games in formal and informal educational settings. Furthermore, he is the founding director of the CREATE (Consortium for Research and Evaluation of Advanced Technology in Education), where his research is at the intersection of learning science, cognitive sciences, and design. His current focus is on studying cognitive, social, and emotional design patterns for simulations, games, and VR/AR/MR for learning math, science, and economics, games for cognitive skills development, and games for health. He is the author of over 100 journal articles, chapters, and conference proceedings, has given more than 170 presentations and is the lead editor of the forthcoming Handbook of Game-based Learning (MIT Press). Jan has received funding for this research from major federal agencies, private foundations, and private donors. He received his MA in Mathematics and Physics Education and his Ph.D. in Educational Technologies from Erfurt University, Germany. You can see an example of the application of Jan's research at the World Science Festival in 2019, as a panelist for "Growing Up Digital: A Life In A World of Networks and Screens".

Rachel is a developmental psychologist and assistant professor of Child & Adolescent Development. She has a private practice working with children, and conducts parent and teacher trainings focused on behavior management. The decade prior to her doctorate, she was a director of youth development programs working closely with children and families from diverse backgrounds — ethnicities, socioeconomic status, urban and rural populations. The children she's worked with also range in their cognitive abilities — the gifted and talented as well as those who are non-verbal with severe intellectual delays. Regardless of background, over the last 23 years she has seen children’s mental health declining – more anxiety, more depression.

Naomi Polinsky is a developmental psychologist whose research focuses on design, with an impact on toys, media, educational technology and playful spaces. Naomi is passionate about making a meaningful contribution to children’s growth and learning. As a PhD candidate in cognitive psychology at Northwestern University, she is dedicated to advancing opportunities for all children, as a means to cultivate their natural curiosity and creativity. Naomi holds a BA from Barnard College and a Master’s of Science from Northwestern University and is thrilled at the broad impact she can make, working with a leader like LuvBug.

Board certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dr. Kiarra King is a Chicago based physician, who has passionately dedicated herself to the well being of women and families. Espousing a personal mantra, ‘education is empowerment’, Kiarra is a highly sought after expert to speak on women’s health and wellness. Actively working to keep her community on the cutting edge of health advancements, Kiarra proudly raises her daughter to share her mission to lead an inspired life, embrace beauty, optimize health and stand in her truth. Kiarra’s quiet confidence is invaluable on the LuvBug team!

Maya received her PhD in Media, Technology & Society from Northwestern University, with a Bachelor’s in Cognitive Science from Brown University. In the past 8 years, she has cultivated a deep understanding of children’s learning and engagement with media. Maya brings a particular focus on inclusive representation within media, looking to provide enriching educational experiences for children. Working with the likes of Nickelodeon, PBS Kids and Mattel, she has sought to elevate the co-play and/or co-viewing experiences being produced, to reflect the child’s perspective and voice. Maya is enthusiastic about her participation with LuvBug and looks forward to impacting the lives of children and families everywhere.

Dasha is a Clinical Reader in Child Psychiatry at Imperial College London and Honorary Consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. As a Fellow and past President of the Academy of Eating Disorders and past Chair of the Faculty of Eating Disorders at the Royal College of Psychiatrists, she has published over 60 research articles and book chapters and is actively engaged in research, lecturing and teaching. Until moving to Imperial in 2018 she was Joint Head of the Feeding and Eating Disorders service at Great Ormond Street Hospital, where she led the national eating disorders team, and Honorary Senior Lecturer at the UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health. She was co-founder of the Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Surveillance System (CAPSS) for research into rare disorders and events in child mental health. As a proud mother to her 14 year old son and married to a pediatrician, Dasha's many years of experience, underpin a legacy of commitment to child and adolescent mental health. Dasha is excited at the prospect of what we can do, to further the mental and emotional health of children everywhere.

Karen is an Associate Professor of Games/Interactive Media, in addition to her roles as Director of the Play Innovation Lab, and Director of the Games and Emerging Media program at Marist College. She is the author of "Knowledge Game”, published by Johns Hopkins University Press (2016). She has previously edited two book series, "Ethics and Game Design” and "Learning, Education, & Games”. Dr. Schrier has written or edited over 100 scholarly publications and education materials. She is currently writing a book on using games to teach civics and ethics, and her edited book, "100 Games to Use in the Classroom & Beyond" will be released later this year. Additionally, she has co-designed many digital properties, such as “Awesome Upstander” an anti-bullying mobile game. Prior to joining the Marist College faculty, she spent over a decade producing websites, apps and games at places such as Scholastic, Nickelodeon, BrainPOP, and ESI Design. She has a doctorate from Columbia University, a master’s from MIT, and a bachelor's from Amherst College. Karen is a mom to young children and lives outside New York City with her family.

David is a professor of Psychology at Sacred Heart University, having received his B.A. from the University of Texas, and his Doctorate from Columbia University. With teaching responsibilities for child and adolescent development, David's research has specifically focused on how development occurs while engaging in technologically-mediated activities, ranging from texting, to online discussions (such as social media), and video games. His work and teaching advocate for heightened meta-cognition, while pushing for creativity and agency of ideas in real world scenarios, such as those presented at collaborative 'maker' community events. David and his family live outside of New York City.

Monique is a Board-Certified Pediatrician working in Toronto who specializes in ADHD and Pediatric mental health. Following a degree in Chemical Engineering and Society from McMaster University, Monique traveled to Central America where she did development work and fell in love with the language and culture. She then spent a year teaching high school before channeling her passion for youth into medicine. She completed her Pediatric training at SUNY Downstate in Brooklyn, NY where she was Chief Resident in her last year. Teaching continues to play a role in her life as an Adjunct Clinical Professor with the University of Toronto. Monique is enthusiastic about contributing to our collective vision, and passionate about seeing her efforts create a better world for her 11 nieces and nephews.

Board Certified in both the US and Canada as a Pediatric Dentist, Doreh is an expert in treating children with special care needs, such as dental fear and anxiety, and proudly trains the next generation of pediatric specialists as a clinical instructor at University of Toronto’s Pediatric Surgical Centre. With a BSc in Biochemistry from University of Ottawa and DDS degree from Western University she was chief resident for pediatric dentistry at the Hospital For Sick Kids. Her passion for working with children, led her to become President of the Toronto Central Dental Society, advocating for children’s health and mental wellbeing. Currently practicing in Toronto, Doreh is a fellow of the American Association of Pediatric dentistry, Canadian Association of Pediatric dentistry, Councilor to the Board of the Ontario Dental association, and is thrilled to bring her enthusiasm and expertise to LuvBug, empowering children to live their best lives.

Recently named 1 of the top 3 family doctors in Toronto, Sarah was born and raised in Toronto, receiving her Bachelor of Science at the University of Waterloo and completing medical school at U of T. She completed her residency in Family Medicine at U of T, at Women's College Hospital. Her fellowship in Obstetrics combined with her diplomat status at the Canadian Academy of Pain Management positioned her perfectly for her practice, at Integra Health Centre, where she is currently the lead physician. Quickly realizing that 1 in 5 visits were mental health related, her focus shifted and she began working with a psychiatrist at the Start Clinic for Mood and Anxiety Disorders, currently practicing part time as a GP Psychotherapist. A scientist at heart, she spends considerable time researching mental health, with a special interest in ADHD, often contributing to major scientific journals. She enjoys mentoring other young doctors, and is a highly sought-after international speaker on ADHD. She is part of the Dovetail Community of female entrepreneurs, having launched her own business. Sarah's entire outlook represents a commitment towards improving the lives of others...animals and humans inclusive. She is passionate about innovative ideas, compelling stories, and broadening the minds of our youth, lending to her excitement for her role in this incredible venture.

Jesse’s focus as a Child Development Specialist, is a natural extension of his Bachelor’s Degree from San Francisco State University, in Child and Adolescent Development. As a Registered Behavior Technician, with a focus on school aged children and families, Jesse has sought to combine the benefits of Emotional Development with emerging technologies such as VR. He brings to LuvBug his correlated experience in both clinical and classroom settings, working with children who have social and learning disabilities.

Andrea has extensive experience in domestic and international taxation. She currently manages the corporate structuring, planning, compliance and taxation functions for the Schwartz Reisman Group at Onex,one of Canada's oldest and most successful private equity firms. Prior to joining Onex, she was a tax advisor for various CPA firms, supporting a broad mix of clients in achieving their business and personal objectives. Upon receiving her BAcc at Brock University, she gained her CPA designation in 2013 and subsequently spent four years improving her technical expertise by completing advanced courses in taxation. Andrea's deep sense of responsibility sparks her desire to mitigate the many issues faced by today's youth. She hopes that her contribution to this team will have a positive impact on current and future generations, everywhere.

With an academic background in Fashion Marketing and Creative Writing, Lauren has managed and developed the online presence for countless brands and businesses for 10+years. In 2013, Lauren founded creative agency, 2Social Agency, specializing in all things digital, social, and creative. Under her leadership as CEO, the agency has grown to 2 offices (Los Angeles and Toronto) with a seasoned team of marketing professionals and industry leaders. Lauren's expertise lies in large-scale social strategies, client relations and business growth, as well as, team management and development. She is passionate about community, and exploring ways to utilize digital strategies and online marketing to communicate positive messages and shed light on meaningful conversations.

In addition to her BA Honors in Psychology, she completed her Masters in Clinical Psychology with a Marriage and Family specialization in California. While enjoying the California sun, she gained valuable experience in the not-for-profit sector working with individuals, couples, and families struggling with anxiety/depression/trauma/addiction ancurthermore with at-risk youth and families. As a working mom of a toddler, her world is a non-stop whirlwind, providing an abundance of growth and reward. Relationship health and connection continues to drive Melissa, urging her patients to strive for gains while achieving balance. When Melissa isn't being super-mom, or keeping her toddler and her dog from terrorizing the house, she enjoys staying active in health and fitness.

Equipped with English, Spanish and French; and having been involved in federal, provincial and municipal politics for more than a decade, Gabriela's expertise in public affairs spans the technology, energy and insurance sectors. Having earned a bilingual Master's Degree in Public and International affairs, Gabriela previously managed strategic communications, stakeholder engagement and operations for several ministers in the Ontario Government. As an active community and political volunteer, Gabriela has recently been the President of the Liberty Village Residents' Association and the Chair of the Latin American Working Group for the Toronto 2015 Pan American Games. Furthermore, she has volunteered her time as a member of Parkdale Community Legal Services, Equal Voice Toronto, Young Pipeliners Association of Canada and leads government advocacy efforts. Keeping herself active with cycling and running, Gabriela enjoys time outdoors with her husband, two-year-old daughter and seventeen-year-old stepson. Gabriela has appeared as a political commentator on CBC and CP24.

As an active political and philanthropic volunteer, Astrid is a seasoned public affairs professional, having been directly involved with political campaigns at all three levels of government. Having studied Political Science and Sociology from the University of Toronto, she has worked to build charitable programming for The Royal Family in Canada through working with The Prince's Trust including The Prince's Operation Entrepreneur program for transitioning military members and an Indigenous languages revitalization program. Currently in a business banking role for the Toronto Dominion Bank, she leads the communications for digital transformation projects. Astrid continues to be a board member of HRH The Prince of Wales's Campaign for Wool and the President of the Alumni of Victoria College at the University of Toronto. Having immediately grasped the importance of our mission, she is excited to be a part of this project, helping to empower children during such a formative stage in their lives.

With a career spanning 3 decades, Alka’s passion for Education is unmistakable. Starting from early days as an immigrant from India, Alka chose to make her education and the education of others, a central tenet to her life’s mission. Having received a BA from Ryerson and additionally a Bachelor’s of Education from the University of Toronto, Alka blazed a trail for educational standards. The highlight of her 21 year career as an elementary school Principal, culminated with being named one of Canada’s Outstanding Principals in 2015. Alka is excited about using her real world experience, as a mother, teacher and principal, towards blazing a new trail, with LuvBug.

Following her love of math and science, Fatima earned her Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy from St. John’s University in New York. Early on, she was aware that her drive would inspire her to become a trailblazer. Beyond her early work in pharmaceuticals, Fatima’s passion for growth, coupled with her entrepreneurial spirit, led her to successfully own and operate a Caregiver Service Provider. She was able to cultivate that experience, and further her entrepreneurial efforts into becoming CEO and Principal of a cutting-edge third-party Customer Service/Sales center based out of Toronto. Fatima hopes that drawing upon her successful leadership track record, spanning multiple industries, enables her to activate her desire for positive impact. As a mom, wife, CEO and thought leader, she is excited by the prospect of inspiring transformational growth for children and families alike, in pursuit of LuvBug’s core mission.

David is a graduate of the Schulich School of Business in Toronto and holds a Master of Business in Finance and International Business and a Post Graduate Certificate in Advanced Management in Business Strategy. He is also a Chartered Financial Analyst and a member of the CFA Institute of Virginia and the Toronto CFA Society. David has over 20 years of international business experience in the technology industry. He has held senior finance and leadership roles at EDS, Microsoft and BlackBerry in the United States, Canada, Asia, and Latin America.

Upon studying economics at the University of Toronto, Craig joined his family’s national communications business. Shortly thereafter, he started his own printing company, servicing clients such as Microsoft, Apple and Mercedes. In addition to his successful entrepreneurial career, Craig has spent the past 2 decades participating in several philanthropic, political and not-for-profit initiatives; such as being a director for the SPCA. Having travelled to more than 45 countries, and spending early formative years in Australia, Craig acquired a deep sense for community within the backdrop of international culture. Upon launching BigFatBrainStorm and LuvBug Learning, he looks to build a global brand big enough to reach every child on the planet, but small enough to fit in their pocket.