Our Team
Our team is passionate about creating healthier, more connected communities through movement and dance.
Bringing together experience in leadership, program management, dance and wellness, our team works collaboratively to develop inclusive, engaging, and accessible programs that encourage people of all ages and abilities to stay active, build confidence, and connect with their communities.
Together, we are committed to making every Smiles in Action experience welcoming, meaningful, and fun.
Elina Katsman
Smiles Foundation
President & Founder
Elina is a former dance athlete who brings over 40 years of experience in global health and community development. Her vision and hands-on leadership have grown Smiles Foundation from a small grassroots outreach into a global-impact organization. She is deeply committed to dignity, access to care, and sustainable community empowerment, and has received numerous awards for her contributions.
Sarah-Maude Thibaudeau
“Smiles in Action”
Creative Director
A former Canadian medalist and long-time international representative, she brings over 17 years of experience as a professional athlete, coach, and dance educator. Based in Montreal, Sarah-Maude founded Smiles in Action to address the lack of accessible physical activity in schools, especially in underserved communities. Her mission is to promote inclusiveness, health education, and community engagement through Dance Sport for people of all ages.
Maria Shalvarova
“Smiles in Action”
Director and Advisor
A former World Champion and multiple-time Canadian and North American Latin American and Showdance Champion, she brings over a decade of experience teaching Ballroom dance to all ages. Maria is deeply committed to serving underprivileged communities across the GTA, using Dance Sport and the arts to promote inclusivity, confidence, active living, and equal opportunities for all.
Dobrana Gallardo
Smiles Foundation
Administrative Director
Dobrana is an Administrative Director at Smiles Foundation with a background as a Speech Therapist. Based in Toronto, she supports program coordination, partnerships, and operations, and is deeply committed to advancing initiatives that improve health, wellness, and access to care for children and communities in need.
Smiles in Action by Smiles Foundation counts with a team of volunteers and partners that make our initiatives a reality. For inquiries about joining our team, please reach out directly to:
smilesinaction@smilesfoundation.org
(416) 739 1237
or
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