As the driving force behind Luminara Academy, Michelle Machado,  brings nearly two decades of global academic and senior leadership experience from multiple world-renowned universities across Australia, Hong Kong, UK and Canada. These include Deakin University, University of Melbourne and Monash University (Australia), University of Hong Kong, University of Birmingham (UK), University of Warwick (UK), Schulich School of Business (York University Canada) & School of Medicine (Toronto Metropolitan University). 

Her unique insights into the educational, academic, and administrative processes serve as an invaluable guide for aspiring students and professionals across all disciplines. Michelle is committed to nurturing the next generation of leaders with the ‘soft’ but core skills necessary to succeed and lead in tomorrow’s world. Don’t miss the chance to benefit from the insights of a seasoned global educator, right here in Toronto! 

Michelle holds an MBA and a Ph.D in Education. 

We are so pleased to welcome Natacha Pennycooke, an award-winning psychotherapist, Mindset Shift Coach, and CEO of Natacha Pennycooke Psychotherapy (NPP), as an esteemed guest speaker at Luminara Academy.

Natacha is renowned for her work in guiding individuals towards emotional and mental well-being. Natacha’s core belief is that understanding the power of the mind is crucial in unlocking our greatest potential. She expertly guides individuals to shift their mindsets from internalized limiting beliefs and fears towards empowerment and purpose. 

Natacha’s approach not only fosters personal growth and mental resilience but also inspires individuals to create the thriving lives they aspire to. Her dynamic methodology and focus on unlocking individual potential, make her a passionate speaker and role model for our participants at Luminara Academy. 

Luminara Academy proudly welcomes Vanessa Pereira as one of our inspirational guest speakers. Her profound resilience is rooted in her early life experiences in Kuwait, where she lived through the Gulf War—a testament to her adaptability and strength in the face of adversity.

As a South Asian immigrant and woman of color, Vanessa has turned her challenges into a life’s mission of breaking generational cycles and championing transformative change.

Her 15-year tenure in Corporate Canada has equipped her with real-world insights into the transformative power of self-awareness and growth. Now dedicated to her soul-work as a coach-in-training at the iPEC coach training school, Vanessa is on the path to ICF accreditation, focusing her talents on one-on-one coaching to serve and create impactful change.

Her journey and mission resonate with Luminara Academy’s vision of empowering the youth to lead with purpose, making her an invaluable asset to our community and an inspiring role model for the next generation.

Luminara Academy is excited to introduce the co-founders of Canary Kids Club.

Jesi Whelan is a mother of two with a dynamic background that includes working in an animal hospital, advocating for environmental issues, surviving domestic violence, and immersing herself in yoga and meditation. Her diverse experiences have taught her the importance and challenge of navigating our internal landscape and building effective relationships. Jesi is passionate about converting cutting-edge science into engaging, practical experiences.

Sam Hulst, is also a mother of two, a designer, and a self-taught craft enthusiast. The arrival of her second child during the Covid pandemic led her to discover solace in creating up-cycled baby accessories. This creative outlet helped her overcome a challenging period, reinforcing her belief in the power of play for mental wellbeing.

What unites Jesi and Sam is a shared vision: They aspire to create a world where children’s emotional growth is as valued and nurtured as their physical and intellectual development. We are so excited to welcome Sam and Jesi to Luminara Academy!

Matthew Palma is a seasoned police officer with over five years of dedicated service. His experience has honed his skills in leadership, effective communication, and mental health resilience, crucial in his role in law enforcement.

Throughout his law enforcement career, Matthew has received numerous awards and accolades, including being nominated for Police Officer of the Year in 2021. His ability to stay calm under pressure, combined with his physical conditioning, and previous lived experiences has been crucial in de-escalating tense situations and ensuring community safety.

In addition to his professional achievements, Matthew is a dedicated father of three and a passionate martial artist. He holds a 2nd degree black belt in Taekwondo and has been training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for the past two years.

Matthew’s commitment to his profession, his family, and his personal development exemplifies his role as a model officer and community member.

Liz is an Ontario Certified Teacher with her Masters of Education. She is also the Founder of Level Up Athletics Academy, a company founded on youth mental health + physical well-being. Growing up, Liz faced mental health challenges that hindered her education + childhood experiences. When she became an elementary school teacher in 2015, she noticed that many students also faced similar challenges. 

With the evolution of the school system, classrooms + the wide range of neurodiverse children, students now more than ever, need to build their mental resilience. Through our social-emotional learning strategies + mindfulness practices, LUAA does just that!


The vision of LUAA is to intervene by offering programming for youth where they engage in mindfulness activities that increase self-awareness, conflict-resolution strategies and community building practices.

Liz is a Certified Yoga Teacher, Breathwork and Cold Therapy Facilitator, Social-Emotional Learning Facilitator and Personal Trainer. With her wealth of knowledge and expertise in the education, health and wellness sectors, your child will experience and gain tools they need to not only manage their mental and physical well-being, but thrive in their world!