Executive Director
Christina Maes Nino
Christina has spent her career working to support, organize and collaborate with people living in poverty often focused on improving housing circumstances. After working as case manager in supportive housing for people who were previously homeless in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside and as a community development worker in social housing in Calgary, Christina decided to pursue policy and research and completed at Masters of City Planning at the University of Manitoba.
While a Community Animator at the Social Planning Council of Winnipeg, Christina was the coordinator of Winnipeg’s first and second Street Census projects, was the co-author of the Winnipeg Street Health Report (2011), Here and Now: Winnipeg Plan to End Youth Homelessness (2016) and has published two chapters in edited books, “Decolonizing Planning” (2014) and “Poor Housing” (2015).
At MNPHA, Christina has grown the Association and is particularly proud of its policy, research, and advocacy capacity. Her favourite activities are seeing MNPHA members speak with decision-makers about their shared priorities, and support one another to provide great, affordable homes across Manitoba.
Christina has served as Manitoba’s representative on the Board of Directors of the Canadian Housing and Renewal Association (CHRA), and is currently on the Winnipeg Reaching Home Community Advisory Board and the Board of Directors of the Community Housing Transformation Centre.
In her free time, Christina loves traveling on two-wheeled vehicles (bicycle and motorcycle), traveling near and far, and gardening.
Contact her at [email protected] or (204) 797-6746 ext.1.
Director of Programs
Cheryl Krostewitz
Cheryl has an extensive background working in the non-profit community, with a focus on non-profit housing. Her experience as a facilitator is based in working as a cooperative development advisor educating groups about cooperatives and helping them with incorporation and support after incorporation. Cheryl was also a founder and board member of the Cooperative Housing Group Inc.
Cheryl enjoys working with boards to help them understand their roles and obligations under their legal agreements. She has helped several groups navigate the ends of their Operating Agreements with Manitoba Housing. Her most recent role was focused on developing policies and procedures for boards and management as well as offering leadership and support in the areas of board development and communication. Cheryl is responsible for implementing MNPHA’s Sector Transformation Strategy, including supporting organizations taking on management agreements or new buildings in partnership with Manitoba Housing, and directing MNPHA’s transformation programs – the Housing Supports Initiative and the Rent Relief Fund.
Contact her at programs@mnpha.com or (204)797-6746 ext.2.
Coordinator of Education and Communications
Jo Dworschak
Jo has a long history of contributing to non-profit housing and homelessness initiatives. Jo comes from the Pacific Coast and is proud to now call Manitoba home. She was the lead in creating independently subsidized projects like the University of British Columbia’s Rent Geared to Income program for its employees. She has extensive experience supporting residents in the Downtown Eastside of Vancouver.
Jo advocated as a Board Member for one of the housing cooperatives fighting city hall to renew their land lease. She produces and hosts fundraisers, including one where she shared the stage with Gabor Mate.
Outside of work, Jo can be found entertaining, working on her house, or finding a new way to get through another winter in Winnipeg.
Contact her at [email protected] or (204)797-6746 ext.3.
Coordinator of Events and Member Services
Idorenyin Mbang
Idorenyin comes to MNPHA with an extensive background working with non-profits. He started out as a Program Intern with Coalitions for Change, a DFID UK funded program focused on capacity development for non-profit organizations.
He also worked with the Inoyo Toro Foundation; an organization focused on education development as the pioneer Program & Admin Manager. He was responsible for the conceptualization and implementation of the Foundation’s key programs and the setting up of the Foundation. He has initiated and executed various events and programs.
Idorenyin organizes MNPHA’s team and events through administrative support, event coordination, website updates, membership renewals, and responding to requests and questions as MNPHA’s first point of contact.
Contact him at [email protected] or (204)797-6746 ext.4.
Regional Energy Coach: Prairies
Fardeen Chowdhury
Hailing from the bustling streets of Dhaka to the frozen grounds of Winnipeg, Fardeen is an ardent advocate for sustainability and a passionate proponent of environmental protection. He holds a Bachelors of Environmental Studies (Honours, Co-op) degree from the University of Manitoba with a focus in Sustainable Development.
With numerous accolades for his academic accomplishments, volunteer work and extracurricular activities, Fardeen’s skills and knowledge range from Environmental auditing to Qualitative research as well as Community engagement. His journey from South Asia to North America has given him a unique perspective on the world, driving his interest in innovative solutions for complex environmental issues related to urban development, which he seeks to incorporate in his work at MNPHA as the Regional Energy Coach: Prairies. He oversees coaching and technical services for affordable housing providers across three provinces (Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta), focusing on energy-efficient capital projects.
Fardeen is a connoisseur of street foods from Dhaka and relishes Panta Ilish and homemade mango pickles as much as he enjoys Rickshaw rides on windy days.
Contact him at [email protected] or (204)797-6746. ex.8.
Energy Efficiency Advocate
Hayley Bassett
Hayley brings a strong background in research, public policy, government programs, and community outreach to MNPHA. Currently completing her Bachelor of Arts (Political Studies, Honours Co-op) at the University of Manitoba, she is passionate about leveraging her skills to drive positive social change and contribute to building stronger, more equitable communities.
At MNPHA, she is excited to explore the non-profit housing sector’s role in fostering positive change by advocating for energy efficiency, supporting community development initiatives, and working to create more inclusive and sustainable living environments.
Outside of work, Hayley enjoys live music, concerts, and exploring local restaurants
Contact Hayley at [email protected] 0r (204) 797 6746 ex 7
MANITOBA RENT RELIEF FUND
For more information on the Manitoba Rent Relief Fund, you can visit the Rent Relief Fund direct website by clicking the button below or contact them by email [email protected] or call 204-222-2181 (toll free 1-800-417-8830)
TEAM
Rent Relief Program Coordinator: Bailey
Bailey has a background in project management and graduated from Red River College’s Project Management Program. A perpetual learner, she is pursuing a Masters of Human Rights from the University of Manitoba, after completing a Bachelor of Business and Human Rights at the University of Winnipeg.
Bailey loves working with people and is passionate about helping them advocate for their rights. In her free time Bailey enjoys running with her dog, camping, and reading.
Office Coordinator: Carleigh
Carleigh has a background in herbal studies centered on plant medicine and recently completed studies in bookkeeping at Red River College. She brings extensive experience from various administrative roles. Her dedication to her practice is exemplified through her commitment to supporting individuals experiencing complex social needs, including concurrent mental health and substance use challenges. Carleigh adeptly combines administrative skills with a compassionate drive to assist others.
In her free time Carleigh enjoys spending time with her son and partner, listening to true crime podcasts, hiking, and attempting to skate and ski in the winter.
Programs Support: Jennifer
Jennifer’s professional journey began with a focus on Nutritional Sciences at the University of Manitoba. However, driven by her innate compassion and a desire for advocacy work, Jennifer transitioned into collaborating with individuals in the vulnerable person sector. For 15 years, she provided crucial support to those in need, showcasing her commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others.
Recognizing the need for a new skill set to further her mission, Jennifer pursued a course in Software Development at MITT. Armed with this technical expertise, she delved into app development and administrative roles.
Now, as an addition to MNPHA, Jennifer brings a unique blend of skills and experience to the team. With unwavering enthusiasm for advocacy, Jennifer is dedicated to making a positive impact through her role at MNPHA, ensuring that her knowledge benefits both the organization and the communities it serves.
Jennifer is a compassionate and understanding individual driven by a love for animals and a passion for helping others. When she’s not immersed in her work, you can often find her at one of Winnipeg’s many off-leash dog parks, enjoying quality time with her rescue.
Resource Coordinator: Kathy
Kathy is a caring and compassionate individual with experience in crisis management and direct support work. She graduated from Red River College’s Applied Counselling Program in 2015 and is currently working towards a degree in social work through the University of Manitoba. Her work with the mental health team at Southern Health have provided her with the skills and understanding necessary to help manage a wide array of crisis situations.
In her spare time Kathy enjoys spending time outside in nature and taking care of her family.
Triage Coordinator: Ysela
Ysela graduated from Canadian Mennonite University Winnipeg with a Bachelor of Social Sciences, and has a background in emergency social service delivery and government support services.
She enjoys networking and working together with collateral agencies to help people in times of need. In her free time, Ysela loves going for walks and taking photos, experimenting with bread recipes, or exploring local restaurants with her husband.
Senior Housing Stability Coordinator: Jackie
Jackie has extensive experience working with people living with visible and non-visible disabilities. Jackie recently worked for a non-profit organization focused on mental health providing programming activities. She has volunteered for several organizations, including on CHMA’s Advisory Counsel for the Learning Centre, as Vice President of Steinbach Pride, and with Manitoba Schizophrenia Society’s Sharing Our Stories. She has a passion for advocating for people who live with mental health issues.
Senior Housing Stability Coordinator: Debbie
Debbie is a graduate of the University of Winnipeg’s Psychology and Justice & Law Enforcement programs with a focus on Sociology and Development. Having worked in the social services field for 20 years, Debbie’s passion is helping to empower youth and adults living with developmental disabilities, complex mental health conditions, addictions and trauma to access resources and experience unconditional acceptance. Most recently, her work with another non-profit organization led her to assist in the development of a safe and supportive housing model for vulnerable, at-risk young women.
When she isn’t working, Debbie enjoys spending time with friends and family, gardening, and exploring our beautiful province. On the weekend you will find her experimenting with how to make leftovers into a gourmet brunch.
Housing Stability Coordinator: Sukhman
Sukhman is an enthusiastic and organized professional offering a wide range of experience in coordinating and facilitating programs such as conversational circles, recruitment, and training volunteers by implementing theme-based topics for a diverse ethnicity of new Canadians.
She has a master’s degree in Psychology from the Punjab University, India and was an assistant Professor in the University. Sukhman has worked as a Community Development worker in Saskatoon Open Door Society.
In her free time, she loves watching Netflix and listening to music. She also has an interest in learning how people think and behave and how our mind can affect our physical well being.
Housing Stability Coordinator: Pam
Pam has a Diploma in Business Administration from Red River college and her Certificate in Urban and Inner City Studies from the University of Winnipeg.
Her work experience is varied, having worked for not-for-profit organizations, the Federal Government and the private sector. In each role, she has brought with her a passion for community development and supporting employment and resource access for people who have barriers.
In her spare time, Pam enjoys spending time with her family and volunteers with animal rescue groups.
Housing Stability Coordinator: Brooklyn
Brooklyn graduated from Canadian Mennonite University with a Bachelor of Social Sciences with a Counselling focus. She is working on completing her Bachelor of Social Work at Booth University College and will graduate in April 2025. Brooklyn has a wide variety of experience, having worked with vulnerable youth and adults with disabilities for over ten years, as well as in health care settings.
Brooklyn is a deeply empathetic person who cares a whole lot about people, especially those in crisis. She provides a patient and gentle understanding of all of life’s circumstances and believes strongly in the right to self-determination; she is also passionate about encouraging people to ask for help! She is excited to use her skills to help support others and looks forward to growing and learning together.
Outside of work, Brooklyn can be found making art, singing loudly, or on the couch with her partner watching YouTube videos about how movies are made. She loves biking, sitting around a campfire, and hanging out with family and friends. Hopefully, a dog will be included in that list soon!
Housing Stability Coordinator: Akinkugbe
Akinkugbe, popularly called Akin, is a skilled, hardworking, and empathetic professional committed to supporting vulnerable populations. His extensive experience includes front line service provision in collaboration with various agencies. Akin has effectively managed diverse roles across multiple sectors: advertising, creative, education, oil and gas, and NGOs. His self-motivation and proficiency in fast-paced, cloud-based environments are commendable.
He has a Master’s Degree in Maritime Administration and Management and a certificate in Human Resources from Robertson College.
In his leisure time, Akin enjoys spending quality time with his family, playing the bass guitar, reading and watching documentaries. He is a member of the Brandon Sunset Rotary Club, where he actively participates in volunteer work.
Housing Stability Coordinator: Clarissa
Clarissa has over 10 years of experience in supporting individuals, particularly adults with intellectual disabilities, in achieving housing stability and accessing opportunities. Her professional journey has primarily focused on providing in-home support, fostering community integration, and guiding career exploration for individuals to live fulfilling lives.
She also brings three years of experience working within the school division as an Education Assistant and School Clerk, where she developed strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills while supporting students and staff.
She is excited to bring her experience and passion for connecting with people to the mission, vision, and values of MNPHA. The organization’s commitment to enhancing community well-being aligns with her dedication to creating meaningful, supportive relationships that empower individuals.
Outside of work, Clarissa enjoys every moment with her 6-year-old son, whether they’re gaming, planning their next travel adventure, or cooking new recipes. She is also a passionate barber, DJ, rock climber, and always looking for ways to explore new hobbies and experiences.
Housing Stability Coordinator: Adriana
Adriana is a political scientist with a master’s degree in peace building and collaborative development from CMU. She has experience working with victims of armed conflict in Colombia, as well as with vulnerable and historically radicalized populations.
Adriana had the opportunity to work with the United Nations and the Special Jurisdiction for Peace (JEP) in Colombia, where she was part of a team that developed a risk monitoring system to prevent violent acts by tracking hate speech on social media. She also supported the implementation of reparative works, actions, and projects (TOAR), aimed at ensuring the safety of former guerrillas while they carried out reparative actions in violence-affected regions.
Adriana is passionate about social work that helps break cycles of violence, victimization, and stigmatization. In her free time, she enjoys running, taking long walks with Martina, her pet, and reading history documents.
Financial Wellness Coach – Jon
Jon brings a decade of experience in supporting individuals with housing, community service, employment, and money management. At the Manitoba Non-Profit Housing Association, he’s eager to guide people to discover strengths and build their confidence in managing their finances.
Passionate about teaching and sharing knowledge, Jon loves to collaborate in crafting strategies with others to address challenges. He enjoys breaking down complex ideas by connecting them to relatable analogies, quotes, or even pop-culture references.
Outside of work, Jon juggles too many hobbies to count, but you can often find him slapping arcade buttons with the local fighting game community or at the park with his daughter.