BRILLIANT MINDED WOMEN FOUNDATION
ABOUT BRILLIANT MINDED WOMEN FOUNDATION
Charity Registration Tax No. 78440 3727 RR0001
The Brilliant Minded Women Foundation is a charitable organization dedicated to advancing higher education by providing publicly available scholarships and grants, with a particular focus on women across Canada. Our foundation also offers coaching and mentoring, assisting students in achieving success in their academic pursuits. The scholarship program is designed to support and recognize the efforts and accomplishments of students who contribute to improving the world through small acts that have far-reaching significance for their personal goals and the communities they serve. These young individuals demonstrate personal determination in their quest for development while simultaneously working towards a better world.
GOAL
To support the development of future leaders through education, mentoring, and community impact, shaping a world where each individual’s potential is nurtured for the benefit of society. We aim to raise funds for scholarships for young students annually. We seek to recognize and support students who demonstrate academic excellence and commitment to community service, fostering their growth into future, influential leaders.
WHY JOIN US?
Education is incredibly important for both genders; however, as we all know, the world is not always a safe or fair place. Worldwide, over 130 million girls are denied access to education, preventing them from realizing their full potential. This issue is not confined to distant places. The student debt crisis in our own communities hinders young people from pursuing higher education. Brilliant Minded Women aims to provide scholarships that enable students to achieve their dreams and contribute to the betterment of our community. A key aspect of our mission is to support these individuals by showcasing stories of leadership and achievements, and by offering ongoing mentorship to help them develop their skills.
“Education is the best gift you can give yourself or someone else.”
– Nahtab Narsimhan
BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Agata Klimczak
President

Iryna Yakovenko
Co-Founder & Chairwoman

Rita Fragnito
Treasurer

Aniela Ganczak
Director

Nesrin Thabet
Director

Nadia Asfour
Director

VO NGOC YEN
NHI (DIANA) DINH
Director

Kenneth Michalak
Accountant

Kevin Aguanno
Advisor

John Kiefte
Advisor

Beata Kaas
Advisor
The Board of Directors collaborates to achieve their goals through teamwork and consensus-driven decision-making. This entails:
- Evaluating scholarship applications based on predetermined criteria and objectives.
- Utilizing social media, newsletters, and other platforms to highlight scholarship opportunities.
- Facilitating receiving scholarship or volunteer opportunities that enhance students’ skills and qualifications.

Agata Klimczak
President
Agata Klimczak is dedicated to enabling individuals worldwide to surpass obstacles and achieve personal and professional growth while embracing the profound fulfillment of aiding others. A beacon of inspiration, Agata is esteemed as a speaker, author, mentor, and business authority. She serves as the Founder and President of the Brilliant Minded Women Foundation, passionately empowering individuals globally and honoring those who contribute to shaping a brighter future. Her leadership has garnered prestigious accolades, including the Top Leaders Award, Chamber of Commerce Award, and Order of St. Stanislaus, recognizing her impactful contributions to society. Agata’s vision extends beyond immediate achievements, aiming to create lasting positive legacies for current and future generations through her foundation’s initiatives. With a commitment to fostering leadership and community engagement, she continues to inspire and uplift individuals to embrace their potential and make meaningful impacts in their communities and beyond.
- Leads the foundation by setting strategic goals and working closely with the board of directors.
- Ensures the foundation’s mission is achieved.
- Oversees fundraising, financial management, and staff operations.
- Represents the foundation publicly and fosters relationships with key stakeholders.
- Ensures compliance with legal standards.

Iryna Yakovenko
Co-Foundar & Chairwoman
Iryna Yakovenko, Co-Founder and Chairwoman of the Brilliant Minded Women Foundation, was born in 1959 in Ukraine, beginning a journey defined by resilience and dedication. Her academic achievements culminated in a degree from the University of Trade and Economics in Kiev. Following her successful career in Ukraine’s Ministry of Trade, Iryna and her family immigrated to Canada in 1996, where she navigated the challenges of establishing a new life with determination. In Toronto, Iryna thrived in the retail industry, specializing in sales and coaching management, and for the past eight years, she has been a pivotal figure in various locations of Talbots INC across the Greater Toronto Area and Canada. Her strategic leadership has significantly contributed to the company’s growth and success. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Iryna Yakovenko exemplifies a commitment to philanthropy and community service. Her volunteer efforts span diverse causes, from supporting orphanages in Ukraine and aiding Chernobyl Nuclear Disaster victims to participating in the Breast Cancer Foundation Annual Walk in honor of her mother. Iryna’s altruism has been recognized with the Ontario Volunteer Service Award, celebrating her over 2,000 hours of volunteer work in recent years.
- Supports the president in executing the foundation’s strategic goals and mission.
- Assists in managing day-to-day operations and staff oversight.
- Helps develop and implement fundraising strategies and initiatives.

Rita Fragnito
Treasurer
Rita Fragnito serves as a Treasurer for the Foundation since 2016. Her life is a rich tapestry woven with diverse experiences, community service, and a profound commitment to making a difference. Born in Italy and raised amidst the challenges of rebuilding after a seismic event, Rita’s early years instilled in her resilience and adaptability. Her family’s move to Canada at the age of eight opened doors to a journey of cultural immersion in Montreal and later Niagara Falls, where she thrived in embracing new languages and customs. Rita’s passion for social work led her to earn a degree from Ryerson University, complemented by a transformative year backpacking across Europe, enriching her understanding of global cultures. In Vancouver, she made significant contributions to the tourism and hospitality sectors, showcasing her versatility and dedication to service. Despite her travels, Rita’s heart remained tied to Niagara, where she raised her two children and immersed herself in community service. Deeply committed to fostering leadership and inclusivity, Rita chaired the Miss Club Italia Ambassador Program and contributed to the Diversity & Inclusion Committee of Niagara Casinos. Her advocacy with Down Syndrome Caring Parents Niagara underscores her dedication to marginalized communities. Recognized with accolades like the Niagara Falls Volunteer Recognition Award and the Ontario Volunteer Service Award, Rita Fragnito continues to shape her community positively through her compassionate leadership and unwavering commitment to social causes.
- Manages the foundation’s financial planning, budgeting, and reporting.
- Oversees the preparation and accuracy of financial statements and records.
- Ensures compliance with financial regulations and legal requirements.

Aniela Ganczak
Director
Aniela Ganczak’s life embodies resilience, dedication, and a profound commitment to community. Born in Jozefow, Lublin, Poland, into a military family with ties to the Polish Resistance during World War II, Aniela pursued a Master of Science in Agriculture from the University of Lublin in 1980. Her career in urban planning began at Zamosc city’s urban planning office, later advancing to Manager of Environmental Appropriation and Planning within the city’s housing authority. In 1992, Aniela immigrated to Canada with her daughters, Iwona and Magdalena, becoming an integral figure in the Polish community. She actively contributed to cultural activities such as Radio Maryja and choir participation, and initiated charitable endeavors, including a foundation in Poland for underprivileged children. Aniela’s leadership extended to roles like president of Ladies of Hope (Koło Pań Nadzieja) and Volunteer Coordinator at Copernicus Lodge, where she advocated for elderly care. Aniela finds joy in nature through the Koliba tourist club, exploring Ontario’s hiking terrains. Her devotion to family and community, coupled with her generosity and leadership, has earned her profound respect and admiration.
• Promotes scholarship opportunities, engaging with potential candidates and educational institutions.
• Helps students to enhance their experiences with CO-OP programs, volunteering, and other educational programs.

Nesrin Thabet
Director
• Evaluates the impact and effectiveness of the foundation’s programs.
• Oversees fundraising efforts and donor relations.

Nadia Asfour
Director
• Works closely with other directors and staff to coordinate fundraising events and campaigns.
• Identifies and cultivates potential donors and sponsors, building strong relationships.

Kenneth Michalak
Accountant
• Provides financial analysis and advice to support decision-making and strategic planning.
• Prepares financial statements, manages accounts payable and receivable, and provides financial analysis.

Agata Klimczak
President
Agata Klimczak is dedicated to enabling individuals worldwide to surpass obstacles and achieve personal and professional growth while embracing the profound fulfillment of aiding others. A beacon of inspiration, Agata is esteemed as a speaker, author, mentor, and business authority. She serves as the Founder and President of the Brilliant Minded Women Foundation, passionately empowering individuals globally and honoring those who contribute to shaping a brighter future. Her leadership has garnered prestigious accolades, including the Top Leaders Award, Chamber of Commerce Award, and Order of St. Stanislaus, recognizing her impactful contributions to society. Agata’s vision extends beyond immediate achievements, aiming to create lasting positive legacies for current and future generations through her foundation’s initiatives. With a commitment to fostering leadership and community engagement, she continues to inspire and uplift individuals to embrace their potential and make meaningful impacts in their communities and beyond.
- Leads the foundation by setting strategic goals and working closely with the board of directors.
- Ensures the foundation’s mission is achieved.
- Oversees fundraising, financial management, and staff operations.
- Represents the foundation publicly and fosters relationships with key stakeholders.
- Ensures compliance with legal standards.

Kevin Aguanno
Advisor
• Provides mentorship and support to the board of directors and executive leadership.
• Evaluates and provides feedback on program effectiveness and impact.

John Kiefte
Advisor
• Provides mentorship and support to the board of directors and executive leadership.
• Evaluates and provides feedback on program effectiveness and impact.
