Meet your 2025 ACTRA Toronto Council Candidates

Before casting your vote for up to 24 candidates, get to know them by reading their statements below. Candidates’ statements and photos are not available on the voting site.

Online voting for eligible members is open from 9:00 a.m. ET on Friday, October 31, 2025, to 5 p.m. ET on Tuesday, November 11, 2025.

Council Election webpage
Election Guide

Your 2025 ACTRA Toronto Council Candidates

Election statements and content accessed through the links must be factual and not include any defamatory comments. If a candidate statement fails to comply with these guidelines, and if time permits, the candidates may be allowed to revise their election statements within a time set by the Election Committee. If an election statement is not revised to the satisfaction of the Election Committee, it will not be published.

NOTE: Candidate statements in compliance with these guidelines are not edited but presented as submitted.

To interact with a candidate’s profile, click on a candidate’s image.

George Alevizos

Nominator: Jennifer Wigmore; Seconder: Julius Cho

George Alevizos

Nominator: Jennifer Wigmore; Seconder: Julius Cho

My name is George Alevizos, and I am an actor, and a current sitting ACTRA Toronto Vice President and National Council member, and in a wheelchair. My fight for equal representation hasn’t stopped. I am running again because diverse, young representation is still so important. I was on the historic IPA bargaining team, secured more benefits within AFBS, and continued my work with the Disability Alliance. Diverse folks continue to be attacked globally, and we need support more than ever.

Heather Allin

Nominator: K.C. Collins; Seconder: Wendy Crewson

Heather Allin

Nominator: K.C. Collins; Seconder: Wendy Crewson

ACTRA is our anchor, protecting & fighting for our rights. Our threats: AI; the lockout; industry contraction; pressure to go American; Inclusion & Belonging; erosion in work opportunities, working conditions & compensation. I'm a Past President, On Set Liaison Officer (OSLO), member of many bargaining teams, created the Conferences & met many of you at work & events. I will continue to fight for Member's Rights, expanding Work Opportunities, Inclusion at the table & beyond. Please vote for me.

JaNae Armogan

Nominator: JaNae Armogan; Seconder: Shanna Armogan

JaNae Armogan

Nominator: JaNae Armogan; Seconder: Shanna Armogan

I would like to be part of the Actra Toronto Council because I truly feel I can help make a difference, this has been a very tough year from me and I am sure everyone is going through it but I would like to be more hands on with our union, participate more in events and meetings be more involved and have a better understanding of our council as well as our unions, I feel like if I had this opportunity I will be more driven and determined and be able to help our fellow members.

Nneka Atto

Nominator: Krystal Meadows; Seconder: Matthew Brown

Nneka Atto

Nominator: Krystal Meadows; Seconder: Matthew Brown

I am an award-nominated voice actress and singer, with credits in ad campaigns, video games, live events, and animation — and I’m proud to be both an ACTRA and SAG-AFTRA member. My fresh perspective will bring new ideas to revitalize our policies and processes. A union is only as strong as its members, and I aim to increase both the size of our membership and member engagement. More involved members create more work opportunities. We are a diverse community of performers with unique strengths, abilities, and voices. I want to be a unifying voice that brings us together. Onwards!

Roger Barnes

Nominator: Peter Keleghan; Seconder: Peter Snider

Roger Barnes

Nominator: Peter Keleghan; Seconder: Peter Snider

I've been a proud member of ACTRA for almost 50 years. I've had the good fortune to have worked across the country with countless members. I served on the board in the mid eighties and was instrumental in a number of initiatives. Most notably, I created the ACTRA merchandising in an attempt to raise our profile. I'm please to see that it still exists. I'm hoping my many years of experience and knowledge will compliment a diverse group of individuals on council. www.rogerbarnes.com

Paul Bates

Nominator: Christy Bruce; Seconder: Paul Constable

Paul Bates

Nominator: Christy Bruce; Seconder: Paul Constable

I bring proven bargaining skills from my work organizing and sitting on the executive committee of AICE, the Second City teachers union. My priority is swift and decisive action to resolve the unfair commercial lockout. We must also strengthen protections for all local performers and dedicate resources to fostering new, diverse, and sustainable work streams in Toronto to ensure our industry thrives. I promise to be a thoughtful, pragmatic and independent voice on ACTRA Council.

Brendan Beiser

Nominator: Wendy Crewson; Seconder: Tony Nappo

Brendan Beiser

Nominator: Wendy Crewson; Seconder: Tony Nappo

Want to work more? Want to earn more? Me too. I’m not running for the free tea at the monthly meeting (though I like tea). I want to help make our union stronger through real communication and engagement. Too many members are uninformed or disconnected, and that weakens us. When people know what’s happening—votes, referendums, decisions—they can make informed choices, and informed choices create power. We have wisdom from experience and energy from new voices; together that’s our greatest strength. In solidarity, WE can shape our future.

Tim Beresford

Nominator: Aaron Williams; Seconder: Lucas Bryant

Tim Beresford

Nominator: Aaron Williams; Seconder: Lucas Bryant

We the members must be the change we wish to see in our union. We the members must engage and work together to build our union's strength. As a councillor, I vow to fight for the transparency and accountability required for this to happen. Onwards. Vote RCAP.

André Blissett

Nominator: Shereen Airth; Seconder: Farah Foster-Manning

André Blissett

Nominator: Shereen Airth; Seconder: Farah Foster-Manning

My name is André L.A. Blissett, I am running again because just like you, I want change in our structure! This past year I have been listening to and learning about the needs ACTRA members are looking to have fulfilled. We need to set up satellite offices in near by towns providing fair travel for all members, create more work opportunities or at least develop a space where members can practice their craft and receive the footage for their professional reel!

Kenton Blythe

Nominator: Lise Cormier; Seconder: Asante Tracey

Kenton Blythe

Nominator: Lise Cormier; Seconder: Asante Tracey

Since the last election, I’ve served as an alternate councillor, Vice-Chair of YEAA,  a member of the Communications Committee and helped organize a member picnic in High Park. I am also the co-chair of communications for RCAP. From members, I’ve heard three concerns: more work, transparent leadership, and protection from AI. I will fight for reforms to the Co-op Agreement to create more opportunities, commit to open and accountable leadership, and work to protect human-centered art.

Victoria Brooks

Nominator: Paul Constable; Seconder: Amy Matysio

Victoria Brooks

Nominator: Paul Constable; Seconder: Amy Matysio

I want to be part of a council with the agility to focus on what is most important to members immediately – commercial work, AI - as well as continuing long-standing work – bargaining, worker’s rights. I want to focus ACTRA Toronto’s efforts on the communication pathways that connect members to resources and information that will help them in their working life; bringing clarity to members on what has already been negotiated for them, and empowering us to know our hard-won rights as performers, so that we can continue advocating for the best sets and job sites for all. www.victoriabrooks.ca

Michael T Burgess

Nominator: Robert Verlaque; Seconder: Courtney Deelen

Michael T Burgess

Nominator: Robert Verlaque; Seconder: Courtney Deelen

"Get ACTRA TORONTO MEMBERS WORKING. Better roles, equal pay, more opportunities. Feel the same? Want change? Vote for me to be your voice. The NCA is based on old business models. Council needs younger blood that understands influencer & social media marketing. The IPA is good. It can be better. If it shoots in Canada, we need to have Canadian residents in lead roles, not just the scraps that are left. Approving foreign permits should be the rare exception, not the norm."

Ash Catherwood

Nominator: Sergio Di Zio; Seconder: Tonjha Richardson

Ash Catherwood

Nominator: Sergio Di Zio; Seconder: Tonjha Richardson

"Please consider me for Toronto ACTRA council. Some things I will address if I am elected: - Increasing Canadians on screen, and quality of roles for Canadians. Elbows up! - Reducing and eliminating red tape for ACTRA actors to self create across a variety of mediums. We’re artists! We need the ability to create art unhindered. - Bringing new and emerging talent into the fold, thereby increasing ACTRA’s membership. More membership, more influence. - Improve working conditions at home and on set."

Julius Cho

Nominator: Andrew Phung; Seconder: Ana Sani

Julius Cho

Nominator: Andrew Phung; Seconder: Ana Sani

My main focus besides adding more East Asian representation to the table is to especially focus protecting our Principal Performer rights. I’ve been fortunate to work on most contracts and have my best interest in relaying simple and cohesive information to the membership. My goal is to help us get through these strange times with a little less fear and anxiety, and start up initiatives that would benefit our membership. Such as voice acting and dubbing workshops.

John Cleland

Nominator: Raoul Bhaneja; Seconder: Ellen Dubin

John Cleland

Nominator: Raoul Bhaneja; Seconder: Ellen Dubin

I am seeking your support to continue to fight for you; the members. For two years I have served as VP in Toronto and as a National Councillor. My values: Listening to members, transparency and accountable leadership. Progress I am proud of: Our NCA Rally at Queen’s Park, leading our fight to preserve human creativity in the face of A.I. with the establishment of an AI Task Force, and advocating for members at ACTRA National. Now, we need a mandate from you to reform and build the strength of this union so that we can meet this moment. Onwards.

William (Bill) C. Cole

Nominator: Jennifer Tocheri; Seconder: Bruce Stanfield

William (Bill) C. Cole

Nominator: Jennifer Tocheri; Seconder: Bruce Stanfield

"I am honoured to put my name forward for ACTRA Toronto Council. With over 40 years as a business owner, I have gained experience in financial responsibility, negotiation, and teamwork, skills directly valuable to council’s work. My path as an actor and filmmaker deepens my commitment to the challenges performers face. Being from the North, I know the unique challenges faced by our members in smaller communities, and I aim to bring their voices and experiences to the table. I am dedicated to collaborating to ensure our union is strong, transparent, and responsive to protect all members. ONWARDS-LET’S VOTE RCAP."

Paul Constable

Nominator: John Nelles; Seconder: Paul Bates

Paul Constable

Nominator: John Nelles; Seconder: Paul Bates

For the last two years I have served as ACTRA Toronto Treasurer. I have witnessed first hand how our industry is no longer providing the financial support needed to keep this Union afloat. I believe we need Council members that focus on transparency, and who are willing to work with members to find solutions that can be for the betterment of everyone. I helped develop the Treasurer Talks as a way to communicate with our 15,000 members, and also as a way to give those combined members a voice. Let’s use our voices to make a stronger ACTRA Toronto.

Adolyn Dar

Nominator: Izaak Smith; Seconder: Ali Kazmi

Adolyn Dar

Nominator: Izaak Smith; Seconder: Ali Kazmi

Our power has diminished. Producers have no incentive to hire us anymore. Why would they when they can underpay (abuse) non-union members or replace us with AI Tilly? As an equity champion (10+ years) I have concrete plans to influence policy that increase our membership and make it easier for you to make your own work. As a cognitive science graduate, I am uniquely positioned to be your voice against AI and combat the imminent meaning crisis. My only purpose is to increase our opportunities and to protect us for generations to come. Let’s take back our power together. Onwards.

Gabriella de la Torre

Nominator: George Alevizos; Seconder: Tina Jung

Gabriella de la Torre

Nominator: George Alevizos; Seconder: Tina Jung

"I’ve been a member for over a decade and the past three years I’ve been the red carpet host/co-producer of our digital shows ACTRA Toronto at TIFF and the ACTRA Awards which garnered three Canadian Screen Award nominations for spotlighting our homegrown talent. Our content increases performer visibility and platforms the achievements of our artists which strengthens our bargaining power. As A.I. grows and the commercial lockout continues, we need stronger performer protections and unity. "

Izaiah Dockery

Nominator: Lauren Saarimaki; Seconder: Feaven Abera

Izaiah Dockery

Nominator: Lauren Saarimaki; Seconder: Feaven Abera

Our industry, like ACTRA, should reflect all of us. That means more POC, queer, gender diverse, disabled, and young voices being cast and leading. Union leaders need to prioritize our work. There’s no shortage of sets in Canada, yet Canadian actors don’t have the access we deserve. Finally, ACTRA needs to be transparent with its members about union decisions, actions, and finances. I’m running to help change these things. Not symbolically. Actively and transparently. This is about building something better together. I’m here to listen, advocate, and help ensure ACTRA fights for what its members truly need. Vote RCAP. Onwards.

Cory Doran

Nominator: Jonathan Tan; Seconder: Angelica Alejandro

Cory Doran

Nominator: Jonathan Tan; Seconder: Angelica Alejandro

Hi and Hello, we may not have met, but I’d like to introduce myself. My name is Cory Doran, and I’m running for Council. I’ve served as Chair of the Voice Committee, Co-Chair AI Committee & Co-Vice Chair National AI Taskforce. My GOAL is to organize and prioritize the Focus on carving out sustainable language regarding AI use in Canada and the Industry. Having served on IPA negotiations, my GOAL is to help unite the membership, especially the branches, for a stronger, sustainable ACTRA.

Elana Dunkelman

Nominator: Kimberley-Sue Murray; Seconder: Ivan Sherry

Elana Dunkelman

Nominator: Kimberley-Sue Murray; Seconder: Ivan Sherry

For me, leadership is about listening, being of service, taking action and accountability. During my first term, I organized new member meetings, advocated for a minors committee, and brought fellow performers together to rally for the establishment of an indie videogame agreement. Real talk: the NCA lockout drags on, A.I. looms, and the cost of living continues to rise while many performers feel cast aside. We need more change-making voices at the table to overcome roadblocks and organize our work. I'm a ball of energy, labour focused and determined to fight for you. Onwards!

Foad H.P.

Nominator: Julius Cho; Seconder: Tavia Pereira

Foad H.P.

Nominator: Julius Cho; Seconder: Tavia Pereira

If elected, I promise to amplify underrepresented voices, put union members over corporate interests, and push for role mandates for foreign productions shooting in the GTA.

Terri Hawkes

Nominator: Norma Dell'Agnese; Seconder: Ron Rubin

Terri Hawkes

Nominator: Norma Dell'Agnese; Seconder: Ron Rubin

Longtime acting experience with ACTRA & SAG-AFTRA: TV, film, animation, anime, games, digital, commercials. Writer, researcher & activist (women, youth and seniors in the arts). I invite members from all disciplines for bridge-building dialogue around: impacts of AI, gender inequity, ageism, background & stunt performers’ conditions, membership barriers & attrition, and revenue decline. Thanks for Council’s & members’ service. As the voice of Sailor Moon, I echo: “Together, we can do better!”

Emily Hurson

Nominator: Fab Filippo; Seconder: Christopher Jacot

Emily Hurson

Nominator: Fab Filippo; Seconder: Christopher Jacot

Over the past two years on council, I’ve been working for you and pushing for change. Your new council will face big challenges: the threat of A.I., the ongoing NCA lockout, and addressing the preference of engagement crisis so Canadian performers aren’t sidelined. We also urgently need an influencer agreement and a micro budget agreement to reflect how our industry has evolved. I know that’s a lot, but with persistence and unity, we can get it done. I’ll continue to amplify all voices, especially those of our 2SLGBTQ+ community, and fight for the union we all deserve. Together, onwards!

Robert Kennedy

Nominator: Jason Diaz; Seconder: Steffi D

Robert Kennedy

Nominator: Jason Diaz; Seconder: Steffi D

I’ve been an active member of ACTRA for more than half my life! I began with background work, then on to actor, principal, recurring, supporting and lead roles in many projects. And, a ton of commercials. Presently, along with my work in film and television I operate McNally Kennedy Acting with my wife Catherine McNally. I understand what your fears, frustrations and joys are with this business. I'm going through it with you. It would be an honour to be a voice for you and your concerns.

Jameson Kraemer

Nominator: Carlos Diaz; Seconder: Diana Bentley

Jameson Kraemer

Nominator: Carlos Diaz; Seconder: Diana Bentley

"Round Two: Onwards & Upwards Our industry is struggling - commercial performers remain locked out, non-union workers are thriving, Canadian film and television production is down, and our deficit keeps growing. Members also deserve real consultation and more information when tasked with making big decisions - not just instructions. So what’s the plan? Grow the work. Grow and protect the membership. Explore/create new agreements. Spend smarter. What can you do? Elect councillors who are aligned and unafraid to make bold choices. ACTRA Toronto can be something you can believe in, be excited about, and be proud of. Let's do this!"

Matt Lemche

Nominator: Heather Allin; Seconder: Tonjha Richardson

Matt Lemche

Nominator: Heather Allin; Seconder: Tonjha Richardson

As a queer performer & 4-year co-chair of outACTRAto, my work is member advocacy. My priorities: robust AI protections, funding for CanCon, & rebuilding the NCA. I'll also champion lowering barriers for marginalized performers, putting audition costs back on producers, codifying intimacy coordination, & better insurance for all. With 30 years of industry experience, I know we need a unified, proactive council. I will listen, find new ways to keep you informed, and be your voice at the table. https://mattlenche.com

Angelica Lisk-Hann

Nominator: Wendy Crewson; Seconder: Daniel Lavigne

Angelica Lisk-Hann

Nominator: Wendy Crewson; Seconder: Daniel Lavigne

I’ve been fortunate enough to have built a successful film career and experienced both great days, and equally challenging ones. What I believe we need now is more transparency, more work opportunities, and greater care with our money. I’m not here to promise I can fix everything, but I do bring decades of experience in this union and know how to push, lobby, and support the people making decisions for us. There’s plenty that needs fixing -and I believe I can help us find intelligent solutions.

Brennan Martin

Nominator: Trenna Keating; Seconder: Florian Francois

Brennan Martin

Nominator: Trenna Keating; Seconder: Florian Francois

As part of council, I would push Actra to make agreements with other unions so we strengthen our ties with other creatives, and build more work with them. I want to create an inter-union festival, where members of all unions create work together where we all benefit. I want to reform Actra PRS, so that our residuals get to Actra members, and don't languish in their accounts. I want more protections from predatory producers, and safety for actors, especially young actors.

Amy Matysio

Nominator: Joel Keller; Seconder: Vanessa Matsui

Amy Matysio

Nominator: Joel Keller; Seconder: Vanessa Matsui

As a Toronto VP/National Councillor, I’ve spent the last two years showing up. A mother-artist and advocate, I lead with curiosity, humour, and conviction. With over 20 years as a principal performer, both on camera and in the booth, I bring deep industry insight and a clear understanding of how screen-based media works. I proudly led the 2025 ACTRA Awards in Toronto, organized and stood with you at the We Rise Up rally, and fought for members in negotiations and working groups. I’m not afraid of hard things—only of losing our union to the path of least resistance. Onwards!

Em Siobhan McCourt

Nominator: Debra McGrath; Seconder: Breton Lalama

Em Siobhan McCourt

Nominator: Debra McGrath; Seconder: Breton Lalama

Hi folks, I’m Emmett. My favourite part of engaging as an ACTRA member the last 7 years has been reaching out to people about vital happenings within ACTRA (protections around AI or wage theft, or an upcoming vote, or issue etc) because staying informed can be overwhelming. My interest in running is continuing that on a bigger scale: connecting people’s concerns to council, & connecting council information to membership. I believe we have a voice together and I’d be honoured to have your vote.

Oscar Moreno

Nominator: Izad Etemadi; Seconder: Angela Besharah

Oscar Moreno

Nominator: Izad Etemadi; Seconder: Angela Besharah

I’m running for ACTRA Council to make our union clearer, kinder, stronger. Members want more light, less heat: plain language updates and real ways to be heard. I’ll deliver quarterly briefings with open Q&As, wins in commercials and TV/film, and smart standards for new media so members can earn ethically. We’ll welcome creators and influencers, teach contracts, AI, licensing, and report progress openly. Transparency builds trust. Solidarity builds power.

Mercedes Morris

Nominator: Christopher Seivright; Seconder: Ryan Persaud

Mercedes Morris

Nominator: Christopher Seivright; Seconder: Ryan Persaud

"Re-elect Mercedes Morris because I’m ready to #UpTheAnte A – Amplify: Our union’s voice in person and online! Whether at panels, conferences, or on social media, I’m loud and proud for ACTRA. N – Never quit: The fight continues! Let’s end the lockout, secure AI protection, and increase roles for Canadians. T – Take action: ACTRA works when we work together. Show up, speak out, and stay connected! E – Educate: Learn, share, and empower your circle. Public support drives real change."

Sally Nakazi

Nominator: Tanu Ravi; Seconder: Mladen Obradovic

Sally Nakazi

Nominator: Tanu Ravi; Seconder: Mladen Obradovic

Colleagues, this past year, I set a goal to get involved with our Union. First I observed Council meetings to gain a better understanding of how issues affecting performers are addressed. Next, I sat in as an alternate and contributed more meaningfully. I believe we can benefit from more structure and improved governance to address issues with objectivity. Listening is the most important tool for an actor. As leaders we must also listen to one another’s perspective on labour issues affecting our livelihoods and work towards the same goals: Protection and prosperity. I’m committed to progress. Onwards.

Dina Pino

Nominator: Joanne Boland; Seconder: Allegra Fulton

Dina Pino

Nominator: Joanne Boland; Seconder: Allegra Fulton

Vote for me, an incumbent Councillor at your service! I pledge to continue my wholehearted dedication to strategic and sensible action; I will consciously listen to members and brightly advocate for what benefits you. I gained extensive knowledge this term, proudly worked on the ACTRA Awards in Toronto, and am steadfast in ending the Commercial Lockout — a pain point I know too well. I’ve studied up on the tools of member-focused leadership. I aim to regain and expand work opportunities across all categories and am committed to ensuring our union thrives for generations to come. C’est parti!

Tamara Podemski

Nominator: Jamie King; Seconder: Tattiawna Jones

Tamara Podemski

Nominator: Jamie King; Seconder: Tattiawna Jones

I’ve been an ACTRA member for over 30 years, mostly on-camera and as a voice actor, dancer and choreographer. I am passionate about increasing work opportunities for underrepresented and marginalized actors, establishing protections against AI, improving guidelines around self-tapes, increasing our wages, and growing our conferences and enrichment programs to build community and empower our members creatively and professionally. Additionally, as a SAG/AFTRA member, a mother of an ACTRA minor and the owner of an ACTRA signatory production company, I can speak to the challenges and barriers, hopes and dreams of the emerging, established and cross-border actor working today.

Anand Rajaram

Nominator: Ali Kazmi; Seconder: Tony Nappo

Anand Rajaram

Nominator: Ali Kazmi; Seconder: Tony Nappo

I’ve been ACTRA since '97. Councils have improved our lives since then. But we have further to go to achieve sustainable livelihoods. We must address the AI threat, partner with CAEA & art guilds to advocate for Universal Basic Income for artists (following Ireland’s lead), petition governments for improved incentives for Canadian productions, and tackle numerous ongoing systemic challenges. I love the energy of RCAP and believe that, as a slate, we will organize effectively for change. Onwards.

Gord Rand

Nominator: Ryan Blakely; Seconder: Mickey Hough

Gord Rand

Nominator: Ryan Blakely; Seconder: Mickey Hough

As a working actor for 25 years, I’ve been honoured to serve our membership over the past two. I’ve repped the rank and file in council discussion about the CRTC and Telefilm policy. I'm building Creators Corner to support performers making their own work. I’ve challenged National Council to uphold bylaws that protect members’ rights to activism and participation, and I’ve worked to increase jobs on American productions because if they shoot here, they should support here. I bring creativity and persistence to the work of building a stronger, fairer union. Vote for organized, intelligent change. Vote RCAP

Tonjha Richardson

Nominator: Jackie Richardson; Seconder: Linda Nourse

Tonjha Richardson

Nominator: Jackie Richardson; Seconder: Linda Nourse

My name is Tonjha Richardson, a principal and voiceover performer and proud ACTRA Toronto Councillor. As a member of the IPA Bargaining team I was honoured to help achieve historic Hair & Makeup wins through the IPA, after actors nationwide spoke out about hair inequality and mistreatment. I’ll continue to fight for AI protections, fair pay, better benefits, and safer sets especially for our background performers, who deserve dignity and safety on every production. As an On-Set Liaison in training, I will be your voice at the table. We don’t fight back, we fight forward.

Madelaine Rose

Nominator: Matt Lemche; Seconder: Natalie Morgan

Madelaine Rose

Nominator: Matt Lemche; Seconder: Natalie Morgan

I’m a performer, producer, filmmaker and member of ACTRA Toronto for the past 10 years, 2 of which I've been the co-chair of outACTRAto. As co-chair I’ve helped honour the work of past chairs with the continuation of previous initiatives, as well as invigorating new ones such as the Gender-Diversity Subcommittee, and new categories at the ACTRA awards. I believe authentic representation is important in front and behind the camera, in all aspects, including our union council!

Christopher Seivright

Nominator: Mercedes Morris; Seconder: Shailene Garnett

Christopher Seivright

Nominator: Mercedes Morris; Seconder: Shailene Garnett

"Being a member since '06, I witnessed sudden and drastic shifts in our industry. In these periods of uncertainty, I became an unofficial leader to peers who sought guidance and support. Their unwavering encouragement has strengthened me to submit as a nominee for Toronto Council. Being elected will allow me to voice the concerns and opinions of fellow members, whom, similarly have felt under represented for years, and bring forth changes that will strengthen and unite us within our union."

Larissa Stadnichuk

Nominator: Billy Oliver; Seconder: John Stead

Larissa Stadnichuk

Nominator: Billy Oliver; Seconder: John Stead

I am a dedicated union member, stunt performer & coordinator for over 23 years. I've served on the BC Stunt Committee and on the negotiation committee during the 2012 BCMPA negotiations—the year when the term “New Media” was first introduced to address the era of digital technology and image use & when Stunt Coordinators were added to the residuals pool. I am consistent with a dedication to protect, engage & guide my fellow members coast to coast while advocating with passion and drive.

Theresa Tova

Nominator: Wendy Crewson; Seconder: Kevin Hanchard

Theresa Tova

Nominator: Wendy Crewson; Seconder: Kevin Hanchard

Committed to a national union & what we can achieve by building consensus. Work opportunities are my number 1 priority. I advocated for cultural shifts during MeToo, safety protocols during Covid & investments in fighting racism & systemic discrimination. I serve as Treasurer ACTRA National, Co-Founded AACE, Chair the EIC & am recipient of the Cliff Pilkey Labour Activist Award, 2025 King Charles lll Coronation Medal & 2025 Cayle Chernin Woman of the year. I hope to continue to earn your trust.

Asante Tracey

Nominator: Kenton Blythe; Seconder: Chris Ip

Asante Tracey

Nominator: Kenton Blythe; Seconder: Chris Ip

Hey y’all, I’m Asante- stage, screen, voice actor and coach. I’ve been an ACTRA member for nearly two decades and have recently begun serving on council both locally and nationally. I stand for three things: bringing work to our members, elevating the dignity of our art form, and reinventing our union to serve its members better. We all stand on the verge of an unprecedented time in our profession, but I firmly believe it holds immense potential for us to realize our dreams as actors like never before. I look forward to your collaboration in striving to make that happen.

Roy Urbanozo

Nominator: Amy Wright; Seconder: Kristen Pepper

Roy Urbanozo

Nominator: Amy Wright; Seconder: Kristen Pepper

This is a defining moment. Top-down unions are a thing of the past; our strength now rises from the collective power of a unified membership. I am fighting for the fundamental recognition of every single voice: from non-union to apprentice, background performers to dancers — because protecting the most marginalized strengthens us all, it is non-negotiable. Transformative reform is vital. As a councillor, I promise to build a unified ACTRA Toronto where equity is the standard. Respect Every Role. Reform for All. Onwards.

David Wallen

Nominator: Mercedes Morris; Seconder: Shauna MacDonald

David Wallen

Nominator: Mercedes Morris; Seconder: Shauna MacDonald

Everything our Union does starts with ensuring work opportunities. Your elected leaders must resolve the NCA lockout; nurture ideas to organize work into the union and stem erosion to non-union performers with outreach, not threats. Create strategic plans to restore financial stability and achieve longterm objectives. Partner across unions to develop effective legislative controls over A.I.; educate members how to protect their performances in these changing times. I aim to improve union democracy through dialogue, engaging members into a unified force. Every vote must count towards electing the responsive, accountable leadership you deserve. RCAP is ready. Onwards.

Nadine Whiteman

Nominator: Alana Bridgewater; Seconder: Thom Allison

Nadine Whiteman

Nominator: Alana Bridgewater; Seconder: Thom Allison

As a working actor for 20 years, I’ve benefitted from ACTRA's support. I believe it’s time to give back, learn more, and help ensure the union reflects the needs of all its members. I bring real experience from commercial, actor roles, series leads to voice over and a strong desire to listen, learn, and advocate. I’m ready to step up, and I’d be honoured to serve on council.

Jennifer Wigmore

Nominator: Karen Robinson; Seconder: Salvatore Antonio

Jennifer Wigmore

Nominator: Karen Robinson; Seconder: Salvatore Antonio

Performers are facing real challenges — jobs are disappearing across every category. It’s time to ensure Canadians are working on shows that shoot here — and that opportunities grow. I’ve been an actor for 30+ years, working my way up from actor to series regular. I’ve served on Council and on your last IPA team, and I know what needs to be done to move us forward. Leadership means listening, collaboration, and action. Members deserve representatives who work for them and with them. Vote for who you know and trust to fight for your work, your future, and a stronger ACTRA Toronto.

Jinny Wong

Nominator: Baeyen Hoffman; Seconder: Sarah Cleveland

Jinny Wong

Nominator: Baeyen Hoffman; Seconder: Sarah Cleveland

I’m a proud ACTRA Toronto performer, working under both the IPA and NCA, backed by 17 years of experience as a CUPE member and over seven years of service on the Local 4092 council. I bring a deep understanding of union values, advocacy, and effective representation. My experience gives me a well-rounded perspective on both day-to-day issues and long-term goals. I’m running for union council to continue standing up for our rights, ensuring our voices are heard, and working together to build a stronger, more united workplace for everyone.

Dr. Kara Wooten

Nominator: Angelica Lisk-Hann; Seconder: Sarain Boylan

Dr. Kara Wooten

Nominator: Angelica Lisk-Hann; Seconder: Sarain Boylan

I am the current co-chair of the ACTRA Toronto Stunt Committee and proud community member since 2003. I have a PhD in Acting & Directing and have continued my studies in conflict resolution. As a former athlete, I am a team player who works diligently to help all succeed. Major areas of focus for me are Health and Safety, work opportunities and transparency. My credits as a performer include theatre, television, and film work, both on and off-camera. I would be honoured to serve the membership and be part of future proofing ACTRA Toronto for all. WE ARE STRONGER TOGETHER.

Kate Ziegler

Nominator: Zarrin Darnell-Martin; Seconder: Ennis Esmer

Kate Ziegler

Nominator: Zarrin Darnell-Martin; Seconder: Ennis Esmer

I’m proud to be your President, fighting for the union you want. One where transparency and good governance are on high. My mentors say, 'Talk to the members. Lead from what they tell you'. I vow to stay in the dialogue - especially when it’s challenging. I’m focused on resolving the NCA dispute, going to bat at National and in bargaining to protect voice, stunts, background, leads and every performer in between. Together we can resist AI, fight for fair audition terms and win back more jobs. Humbly I ask for your vote. Let’s build a powerful creative working class. Onwards.