About Us
Meet The Educators
Admin
Carolyn Cronyn-McGuire
School Manager
My name is Carolyn Cronyn-McGuire and I am the school manager at Young Minds Preschools.
I am a Registered Early Childhood Educator with over 25 years of experience in the field of early childhood education, 21 of those years have been in a supervisory/director role.
My role as school manager is to ensure all families are provided with the best possible experience at our schools from the registration/admissions process to any questions or queries that come up during their journey with us.
At Young Minds Burlington our Reggio program encourages children to explore their interests which in turn builds social skills, a love of learning, confidence and instills problem solving skills.
I look forward to seeing your children grow and flourish in our unique program.
Olere Toni Ayodele
Program Director
I go by Toni and I am the director of Young Minds Preschools.
I am an Ontario Certified Teacher but first an RECE. I have many years of experience creating and designing age appropriate learning programs for children.
We are excited to bring our new location to Burlington and we have heard from many families that this is the sort of program that they have been looking for. Young Minds Preschool offers a one stop learning hub for your children 8months – 12 years. It is simply the place to be. I believe that once children develop critical thinking skills, that is something that cannot be taken away. This is what we do at Young Minds creating learning experiences when certain skills and concepts can be formed.
Our program is designed for the 21st century learner and its goal is to foster lifelong learning skills. We know the Reggio program is unique in its approach hence we have created a space that is not only engaging but also would inspire your children to reach their full potential.
Sunshine
Shakara Andem
Education:
Guelph-Humber University
Languages Spoken:
English / Patuah
Outside Interests:
I love having dinner on the waterfront on those warm summer days, going rollerblading, skating, reading, listening to music and dancing.
Why do you love working with children:
Working with children is one of my many happy places and I feel a sense of accomplishment. To set goals for children and to see them attain those milestones are astonishing and a blessing. Working with children teaches me never to underestimate a Young mind. There are too many potential lies within. I love the way a child’s mind works and how fareless they become given the right environment. Their ability to thrive in any circumstances amazes me daily children truly are gifts in this world.
What do you love about Young Minds?
I love the family-like atmosphere and working with the children and their families. The outcomes of the children and how the school prepares them to face the world confidently. These aids the children handle the many obstacles they may face as they grow and develop.
Alifya Sachak
Experience:
I am a new graduate, I began at Young Minds for summer camp 0f 2022, and have been lucky enough to continue through the school year.
Languages Spoken:
English, Gujarati, and Urdu
Outside Interest:
Baking, Spending time with family and friends, Watching movies.
Why do you love working with children:
Since I can remember, I enjoyed babysitting my cousin and watching her grow and get excited as she learned new things. This made me interested in the early growth potentials of children and every day not only do I get to see their excitement with the small new things they learn, it gives me the opportunity to be a kid with them and share my excitement of new things.
Kelly Sousa
Sunflower
Mary Lemon
Assistant Supervisor
Education:
Bachelor of Early Childhood Leadership
Languages Spoken:
English, Tagalog
Outside Interests:
Traveling, reading, yoga, skating
Why do you love working with children:
There is nothing more rewarding than enabling a child to explore his/her environment and surroundings, allowing them to learn and grow independently.
What do you love about Young Minds?
Young Minds is like one big family. It is a very friendly environment and we always keep our channels of communication open, when communicating with each other, or with families.
Kulwinder Hunjan
My name: Kulwinder Hunjan. Children call me koko.
I am a Preschool teacher here at Young Minds Preschool.
I am a Registered Early childhood Educator and have been in this field for almost four years. Working with young kids has always been my passion, “I truly believe that children are more capable than we think they are”. I love how they always surprise me with their little achievements, and go beyond my expectations.
I try my best to give them the best care and education they deserve.
Ruksana Matadar
Experience:
18+ years supply teaching
Languages Spoken:
English, Gujarati, Urdu
Outside Interests:
Reading, sewing, going for walks
Why do you love working with children:
I love working with children because it makes me happy! I truly enjoy being a part of their formative years, helping to equip them with the basic tools for success in the years to come.
What do you love about Young Minds?
The moment I step inside the school I feel that I am a part of something special. I am a part of a devoted and caring staff who are like family to me and genuinely love to teach and nurture children. This school feels like a second home to me and I hope it does for you, too.
Sunrise
Amal Wehbe
Education:
Montessori Directress
Experience:
15 years of Montessori teaching
Languages Spoken:
English, French, and Arabic
Outside Interests:
Gymnastics, visiting the library, and spending time with family
Why do you love working with children:
I love working with children because they are our future and being a part of their growth and development brings me so much joy. It’s what motivates me and excites me day to day.
What do you love about Young Minds?
What I love about working at Young Minds is the family environment that has been created along with a very supportive team. Young Minds has been a huge part of my personal growth and I’m so grateful to be a part of this team.
Other:
Every day brings something new. I can not wait to see what’s in store.
Leenika Sahotra
Float/Supply Staff