A seasoned executive and governance leader, Endra brings over 30 years of healthcare and medical administration experience as a trained nurse, paired with deep expertise in human resources and procurement. Having served on non-profit, faith-based, and refugee housing advisory boards, she leverages operational acumen and strategic oversight to advance the organization's mission, strengthen community partnerships, and foster impactful support for individuals and families navigating dementia care.
Mary Vari graduated university with a Bachelor of Science in Education in 1970 and worked as a public school teacher, focusing on children with special needs. While raising 3 children with her husband, Mary was employed in program development for her children’s music school. Mary brings extensive experience as a member of the Board of Directors of a Music Educators organization spanning North and South America with a membership of over 5,000. In addition, she organized and conducted 7 extensive concert tours for up to 35 teenage students at a time to 4 different continents - before access to the internet!
Mary went on to teach at Humber College and took on the role of Executive Director of a Trade School in Toronto.
Her most illuminating work experience was when she had the privilege to work alongside Christiana Egi as Director of Marketing for Alexis Lodge, where her dear mother was a resident. It was there that she developed a passion for learning about dementia and the possibilities for successful care at home,… given the right guidance. Mary was delighted to learn that this valuable guidance and support for those providing care at home for loved ones is provided through A Rose For Grandma Charitable Trust, founded by Christiana Egi in 2023.
Today, Mary is happily engaged as a full time grandmother of 4 youngsters! Christiana’s wonderful books have inspired questions and understanding for all of them, as they learn about the special accommodations that have been made for her brother, who suffered from vascular dementia.
Marguerite currently resides on the traditional territory of many nations including the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishnabeg, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee and the Wendat peoples and is now home to many diverse First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. This territory is covered by the Upper Canada Treaties, more specifically by Treaty 13.
With over thirty (30) years of experience as a Legal Assistant, Marguerite brings not only strong organizational skills, attention to detail and a commitment to excellence in legal procedures and office operations but also a strong sense of purpose and compassion to her role on the Board of Directors.
Throughout her career, she has worked closely with lawyers, paralegals, and clients across various areas of law some of which are Labour, Employment Law and Litigation, Construction Labour Law, and Aboriginal Law/Indigenous Rights. She has also served on internal committees - ranging from student support to social and IT initiatives - highlighting her collaborative nature and leadership behind the scenes. She is also highly skilled in document management systems, legal accounting tools, and a range of software essential for modern legal operations.
Outside of her professional career, Marguerite is an active community volunteer. She has served as Vice President of an alumnae association for her alma mater, where she helped plan and coordinate fundraising initiatives. Her volunteer work also includes local food banks, community outreach through her life insurance provider, and school committees.
In addition to her legal work, she is a Registered Nutritional Health Specialist, reflecting her holistic commitment to health, wellness, and helping others. Her diverse experience and passion for giving back make her a valued member of the organization’s Board.
Marguerite is proud to serve on the Board and is excited to contribute to the mission and future of the organization.
A physician and health writer. Grace has been a physician for over a decade, specialising in neurology before moving to Canada, where she is presently on the path to licensure.
Vishal Sood serves as the Board of Director – Finance at A Rose for Grandma, bringing over 15 years of leadership experience in operations, compliance, and financial governance. He provides strategic oversight of the organization’s finances, including budgeting, reporting, and risk management, ensuring transparency, sustainability, and regulatory compliance. Vishal’s expertise in process optimization, team leadership, and operational strategy supports the nonprofit’s mission to deliver meaningful programs and community impact.