At ABC Head Start Society, our strength lies in the people who show up every day with passion, purpose, and heart. Whether they’re in classrooms, staff rooms, community halls, or behind the scenes, our team members embody our mission of supporting children and families to thrive.

Each year, we come together to celebrate the incredible individuals who bring our values to life through the Spirit of ABC Head Start Awards and the prestigious Ann Babb Award. These awards recognize those who lead with integrity, foster belonging, and remind us of the power of human connection. These are our Heroes in Orbit—and we’re so proud to introduce you to this year’s recipients.

The Ann Babb Award

Recipient: Risa Ganpatt | Family Engagement Worker, Milbourne

The Ann Babb Award recognizes a staff member who leads with heart and purpose, embodying the same dedication, compassion, and commitment that Ann Babb herself continues to inspire in our organization. Ann, a passionate advocate for early learning, helped select this year’s recipient—and it’s no surprise that Risa Ganpatt stood out.

Over nearly 11 years with ABC Head Start, Risa has supported families and colleagues across multiple sites with unwavering passion and energy. She’s known for her hands-on approach, her deep connection to families, and her relentless drive to ensure no one falls through the cracks.

“Risa exemplifies everything this award stands for—passion, dedication, compassion, and the tireless pursuit of meaningful change for families and communities.”

From leading impactful parenting workshops to walking through neighbourhoods distributing flyers during intake, Risa does whatever it takes to reach and uplift families. She is present in every space where a child’s success is being discussed and is deeply attuned to the needs of those she supports.

“Her door is always open—literally. She’ll postpone lunch or rearrange her day just to make sure no parent leaves without the support they need.”

We are proud to honour Risa Ganpatt as this year’s Ann Babb Award recipient. She will receive a $1,000 bursary toward professional development and a commemorative award.

2025 Spirit Awards for ABC Head Start

In 2016, we launched the Spirit of ABC Head Start as a shared commitment to the values that guide how we work together and support our community. These awards recognize individuals who don’t just talk about our values—they live them. Whether it's through a kind word, a creative solution, or a moment of courage, these recipients model the spirit of ABC in action. Each award highlights a powerful aspect of our shared culture—recognizing the people who bring heart, integrity, and purpose to their work every single day.

We Assume Positive Intent

Recipient: Aparna Mahay | Educational Assistant, Millbourne

**Aparna Mahay** (pictured right)

"Aprana truly sees the best in every child. She focuses on who the child is, not just the behavior they show. No matter how challenging things get, she stays committed to supporting all children with care and respect.”

Aparna’s warmth and kindness are felt in every classroom she enters. Whether supporting children with challenging behaviors or stepping up in times of need, she always believes in the good in others.

“She completed all the IPPs, supported the classroom, helped with admin work—and did it all with a smile. She lives this value every single day.”

We Choose Our Attitude

Recipient: Shawna Piercy | Educational Assistant, Montrose

**Shawna Piercy** (pictured right)

*“Shawna is a long-standing and valued member of the ABC Head Start team. She is a dedicated team player who approaches her work with compassion, empathy, and professionalism.”*

In a year marked by staffing challenges, Shawna brought steadiness, grace, and a positive spirit that helped her classroom thrive. Her nurturing presence and can-do attitude made her a vital support for children and coworkers alike.

“She maintained structure, consistency, and warmth during a very difficult year—always choosing to show up with compassion.”

We Communicate Clearly

Recipient: Susan Tooke | Site Assistant, Westmount

**Susan Tooke** (pictured middle)

*“Susan goes above and beyond when it comes to tasks assigned to her, but also when it comes to supporting her fellow team members.”*

Susan is known for her professionalism, clarity, and genuine care. She’s supported site transitions, worked seamlessly with new leadership, and brought stability and heart to her team.

“Susan is proactive, respectful, and always ready to help. She communicates with patience, grace, and purpose.”

We Create Our Environment

Recipient: Kaylan Scott | Teacher, Mill Woods Town Centre

**Kaylan Scott** (pictured middle)

*"Kaylan is always the first to open her doors and offer ideas and fun activities to do at our site.”*

Kaylan creates engaging, inclusive learning spaces where curiosity and creativity flourish. From butterfly life cycles to chalk-paint masterpieces, she makes magic happen.

“She shares resources, offers support to her team, and always brings something new to inspire the children and staff.”

We Embrace Diversity

Recipients:

Josh Galarido | Behavioural Consultant, Mill Woods Town Centre

Sibilia Afrim | Family Engagement Worker, Delwood

**Sibilia Afrim** (pictured middle)

*"You won't find a more conscientious worker than Sibilia. She seeks feedback and/or approval when making decisions. and is always looking for ways to increase her skills.”*
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Josh was unable to attend the ceremony, so we don’t have a photo of him accepting his award—but we’re thrilled to recognize his contributions and celebrate his well-deserved win!

This year, we simply couldn’t choose just one recipient for the We Embrace Diversity Award—both Josh Galarido and Sibilia Afrim exemplify this value in exceptional and inspiring ways. Their dedication to creating inclusive, welcoming spaces has had a profound impact on the children, families, and staff they work alongside.

Josh brings empathy, insight, and inclusivity into every interaction. He supports both children and staff with patience and understanding, creating an environment where everyone feels safe and valued.

“He inspires others through his compassion and dedication every day.”

Sibilia uses her lived experience to guide families through the intake process, facilitate workshops like Parenting Across Cultures, and support her coworkers wherever needed. She is an invaluable advocate and community builder.

“Despite personal challenges and the anxiety of change, Sibilia shows up every day with compassion, dedication, and a true commitment to our mission.”

Together, Josh and Sibilia represent the very best of what it means to embrace diversity—and we are proud to recognize them both.

We Foster Strong Relationships

Recipient: Annica Flemming | Family Engagement Worker, Montrose

**Annica Flemming** (pictured middle)

“Annica is a team player who listens with empathy, communicates with clarity, and uplifts others with encouragement and kindness. With families, she shows deep cultural sensitivity and an open heart, taking the time to truly understand their stories and work with them as partners. And with children, Annica shines—forming bonds that are nurturing, empowering, and developmentally supportive.”

Annica is a connector. Her warmth, humor, and integrity create a space of trust and belonging—for families, children, and her team.

“She listens with empathy, engages with intention, and makes everyone feel seen and valued. Her work is grounded in strong relationships and a deep understanding of how connection supports growth.”

Annica also exemplifies lifelong learning. While working full-time, she is pursuing additional education to strengthen her impact—demonstrating the kind of commitment and heart that elevates all those around her.

“She brings heart, humility, and a deep sense of purpose to everything she does.”

To all of our award recipients: thank you. You are the heart of ABC Head Start Society. Your courage, kindness, and everyday acts of care remind us that change doesn’t just happen in big moments—it happens in the way we show up for one another, every single day.

About Heroes in Orbit
Heroes in Orbit is a storytelling series from ABC Head Start Society that celebrates the everyday champions who make our mission possible. From educators and family support staff to volunteers and community partners, these are the people who lift others up, go the extra mile, and embody the heart of ABC.

Heroes in Orbit: Celebrating Our 2025 Spirit and Ann Babb Award Winners