Meet The Team
We are committed to using resources responsibly to achieve our mission of NKM.
This commitment to transparency and accountability is fundamental to our work.
Takiyah Wedderburn is the visionary Founder of Natural Kids Movement (NKM), a non-profit organization established in 2015 to tackle the overrepresentation of Black children in Ontario’s child welfare system. Under her leadership, NKM has grown into a platform that empowers communities, uplifts marginalized voices, and advocates for systemic change.
With nearly two decades of experience as a Child & Youth Care practitioner, Takiyah has dedicated her career to supporting the well-being of vulnerable children, youth, and families. She has worked extensively in education, child welfare, and residential care settings, where she has championed equity, inclusion, and cultural representation.
Takiyah’s unwavering commitment to social justice and her hands-on approach to advocacy reflect her deep passion for creating lasting, positive change in the lives of those she serves. Through her work with NKM, she continues to inspire and foster resilience within communities, ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive.
Takiyah Wedderburn
Founder
Board Members
Malika Derrell
Board Member
Malika Derrell, a University of Toronto Scarborough student, is passionate about empowering youth and fostering inclusivity. As the Student Lead for Black Student Engagement, she champions initiatives celebrating Black culture and community.
With experience as a Child and Youth Respite Support Staff in Durham Region group homes, Malika provides compassionate care to young people facing challenges. As a board member of Natural Kids Movement, she advocates for foster parents to honor and preserve the cultural heritage of children in their care.
Her dedication to representation, mental health, and community continues to inspire positive change.
Kishandra Hall
Board Member
Malika Derrell, a University of Toronto Scarborough student, is passionate about empowering youth and fostering inclusivity. As the Student Lead for Black Student Engagement, she champions initiatives celebrating Black culture and community.
With experience as a Child and Youth Respite Support Staff in Durham Region group homes, Malika provides compassionate care to young people facing challenges. As a board member of Natural Kids Movement, she advocates for foster parents to honor and preserve the cultural heritage of children in their care.
Her dedication to representation, mental health, and community continues to inspire positive change.
Areej Q
Board Member
Areej Q is a dedicated professional with over 20 years of experience in the social services field, working with diverse and vulnerable populations across all age groups. As someone who comes from a marginalized community, Areej is passionate about affirming the dignity, culture, and community of every individual.
Her commitment to promoting equity and empowering youth led her to join the board of Natural Kids Movement (NKM), where she works to support Black youth in building confidence, developing advocacy skills, and fostering self-belief. Areej brings strong leadership, a deep understanding of mental health and behavior modification, and a commitment to creating safe, supportive environments where youth can express themselves and thrive.
Her vision for NKM is to ensure effective supervision, steady organizational progress, and accountability, all while contributing to a future where Black children and youth are empowered to flourish and achieve their full potential
Team Members
Chantelle Wilson
Creative Director
Chantelle Wilson is a visionary Creative Director with a passion for storytelling, cultural representation, and community empowerment. She brings a wealth of creativity and strategic insight to the Natural Kids Movement, leading the development of impactful campaigns and visual narratives that celebrate the beauty and resilience of Black children and youth.
With a deep understanding of the power of authentic representation, Chantelle designs initiatives that foster connection, inspire self-love, and amplify voices often unheard. Her innovative approach and commitment to excellence play a pivotal role in shaping the organization’s creative vision and advancing its mission to promote equity and positive change.
Jaevon Forbes
Director of Marketing & Social Media
Jaevon Forbes is a results-driven marketing strategist and social media expert dedicated to fostering meaningful connections through innovative digital storytelling. As the Director of Marketing & Social Media for Natural Kids Movement, Jaevon leverages his expertise in content creation, brand development, and audience engagement to amplify the organization’s mission of promoting equity and empowerment for Black children and youth.
With a keen understanding of market trends and the power of social platforms, Jaevon crafts impactful campaigns that drive awareness, inspire action, and strengthen community relationships. His creative vision and strategic approach are essential to advancing the organization’s message and building a vibrant, engaged audience.