Leadership
Our Incredible Team of Leaders
Meet the passionate young leaders driving NATO Youth Canada's mission to unite the next generation in transatlantic security.
Spencer Carew
President
Bachelor of Commerce student at Memorial University, specializing in International Business with a minor in German. Spencer has represented Canadian youth at international and academic forums, with experience across Canada, Europe, and Africa including research with the National Security Centre of Excellence. Multilingual in English, French, and German.
Elijah Nikiforuk
Secretary General
Founder & National President of the Canadian Young Leaders Coalition (CYLC). Previously served as Executive Director of the Canadian-Ukrainian Relief Effort (CURE) and Chairman of the Ontario Leadership Summit. Recipient of the Commander's Medallion for Leadership from the former Chief of the Defence Staff of the Canadian Armed Forces.
Jaden Braves
VP, Business Professionals Engagement
Founder and CEO of the Young Politicians of Canada and the youngest Federal Councillor in Canadian history. Recognized as one of the Top 10 Canadians Under 18 by the Federal Government, CFC, and KPMG. TEDx speaker and Global UN Peace Ambassador leading research on democratic innovation with Cambridge University.
Antalya Popatia
VP, Communications & Marketing
Politics graduate from Queen's University with additional qualifications in Public Relations from Simon Fraser University. Has built a career in communications and diplomacy with experience at the U.S. Consulate and the Aga Khan Council for Canada. Aims to elevate NATO Youth Canada's voice in international security.
Roy Han
VP, Finance & University Engagement
Pursuing a Master of Information at the University of Toronto, specializing in digital strategy and technology management. Has experience in the Royal Canadian Navy and in AI innovation. Integrates analytical precision with fiscal oversight to advance the organization's financial governance and academic partnerships.
Nicole Ling
VP, National Affairs
Political Science and Digital Humanities student at the University of Toronto, diplomat trainee, and AI entrepreneur. Her advocacy for human rights and digital governance has reached the United Nations and Canadian political organizations. Crafts policies integrating technology with international security.
Martin Spielauer
VP, Membership Development
Based in Ottawa with experience in legislative research and international relations through roles at the Senate and House of Commons. Brings a multilingual perspective to NATO Youth Canada's membership and stakeholder engagement, fostering inclusive dialogue for a stronger future.
Nina Shelanski
VP, International Affairs & Outreach
Pursuing a Master of Arts in International Relations at Johns Hopkins SAIS with a focus on Security, Strategy and Statecraft. Previously worked as an intelligence analyst specializing in the Middle East and North Africa. Holds a B.A. from Tel Aviv University and is a member of the Phi Beta Kappa honour society.
Anthony Saiters
VP, Canadian Armed Forces Liaison
National security strategist specializing in Arctic defence, intelligence coordination, and youth diplomacy. Currently pursuing studies in Public Affairs and Policy Management at Carleton University. Applies a realpolitik perspective to strengthen alliance cohesion and reinforce Canada's strategic posture.
Want to Join Our Team?
NATO Youth Canada is always looking for passionate young leaders to contribute to our mission.