Photo by Tiffany Thomas of Taylre Media
Brandon Meawasige
Chief Operating Officer
Brandon Meawasige, a member of Serpent River First Nation, is the Chief Operating Officer at Indspire. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Indigenous Studies and Philosophy from McMaster University, a Graduate Certificate in Digital Marketing from St. Lawrence College, and a Master of Design (MDes) in Strategic Foresight and Innovation from OCAD University. Brandon joined Indspire in 2020, spending the first part of his tenure overseeing communications, marketing, and events. During that time he spearheaded a reimagining of Indspire’s events and played a key role in shaping the organization’s voice and public presence, before stepping into his current role leading operations across the organization.
With over a decade of experience in strategy, brand, and organizational leadership, Brandon brings a forward-looking perspective to his work. Born and raised in Toronto, he also has familial ties to Alderville First Nation and was a recipient of funding from Indspire’s Building Brighter Futures program during his undergraduate studies. Brandon remains deeply committed to advancing Indigenous education and empowering First Nations, Inuit, and Métis youth across Canada.
Photo by Tiffany Thomas of Taylre Media
Dr. Nima Dehghansai
Vice President, Research and Impact
Dr. Nima Dehghansai is Vice President of Research and Impact at Indspire, bringing a strong background in research, strategy, and system design. He holds a Ph.D. in Kinesiology and Health Science from York University, with a focus on athlete development and high-performance sport systems, particularly in Para sport. His work has informed national strategies in Canada and Australia, including efforts leading up to the Brisbane 2032 Games.
A widely published scholar and co-editor of Talent Development in Paralympic Sport (Routledge), Dr. Dehghansai bridges research and practice to advance equity in sport, education, and workforce transitions. His research has centered on identifying key factors that support long-term success, with an emphasis on creating data-informed strategies that improve access, inclusion, and performance outcomes.
At Indspire, he leads research and evaluation efforts that identify systemic barriers and inform policy to improve outcomes for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis youth.
Photo by Tiffany Thomas of Taylre Media
Kate Espina
Vice President, Development
Kate Espina is a seasoned nonprofit leader with over 20 years of experience in fundraising strategy, donor engagement, and organizational growth. As Vice President of Development at Indspire, she oversees national fundraising efforts that support the education of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis students across Canada.
Since joining Indspire, she has held senior roles—including Director of Major Gifts and Director of Partnerships. Kate’s expertise in major giving, strategic partnerships, and campaign development play a key role in strengthening donor relationships and increasing philanthropic support for Indigenous education.
Before Indspire, Kate served as Vice President of Client Services North America at GiveBridge, where she collaborated with a wide range of international charities to grow their monthly donor programs. Her background also includes executive support roles at The Arthritis Society, Canadian Tire Corporation and Cineplex Entertainment, giving her a broad perspective on corporate strategy, stakeholder relations, mergers and acquisitions and board governance.
Kate brings a beneficiary-focused approach to fundraising and a deep commitment to advancing equity through education. She is passionate about aligning philanthropic strategy with mission impact.
Photo by Tiffany Thomas of Taylre Media
Mallory Rose
Vice President, Communications & Marketing
Mallory Rose, a member of Curve Lake First Nation, is the Vice President of Communications & Marketing at Indspire. She holds an Honours Bachelor of Business Administration from Wilfrid Laurier University and a Master of Business Administration from Ivey Business School, and brings 15 years of leadership experience in Indigenous communications, marketing strategy, and digital storytelling.
Before joining Indspire, Mallory served as Director of Marketing and Communications at a national non-profit and Creative Director at Tribal Trade Co. Mallory has led high-growth marketing teams, expanded digital audiences of over 100,000, and trained more than 10,000 learners in Indigenous communications, culture, and reconciliation.
She has led communications projects with both national and international brands, including Procter & Gamble, Best Buy, HP Canada, and Marsh McLennan to deliver genuine and impactful campaigns through strategic amplification of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis voices.
Featured speaker at TEDx, Assembly of First Nations, and Anishinabek Nation, Mallory is dedicated to transforming the narrative surrounding Indigenous leadership through education, empowerment, and innovation.
