EKO Welcomes New Board Directors to Drive the Next Chapter of Growth

November 11, 2025

Empowered Kids Ontario-Enfants Avenir Ontario (EKO) announced two new board appointments that will help shape Ontario’s developmental health sector and support the association through its next chapter of growth.

Thomaz Fonseca is a data-driven leader who brings experience in strategy, finance, and governance in the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors to the EKO Board, along with a unique combination of financial acumen, policy-oriented thinking, and a commitment to inclusive systems change. Thomaz is Senior Director of Measurement and Analytics for Next Best Action at RBC, where he leads enterprise-wide performance evaluation for strategic initiatives that drive client outcomes and long-term value. In previous roles at the bank, he supported social impact innovators through Grand Challenges Canada, helping build business cases and secure funding for child health solutions across Africa, Latin America, and Canada. Beyond his professional roles, Thomaz is dedicated to equity, early intervention, and access to care for underserved communities.

Arjun Gulati is an accomplished, results-driven executive with over a decade of experience advancing business growth and optimizing operational efficiency. With expertise in market analysis, strategic planning, and the implementation of high-impact initiatives, Arjun has delivered value across diverse markets, including Canada, the U.S., France, India, China, Malaysia, and Singapore. As Assistant Vice President, Strategy Execution and Business Development at Zurich Insurance Canada, Arjun leads data and IT projects, fostering innovation to support organizational objectives. He is deeply committed to making a positive difference in the community, having volunteered extensively with organizations in India that support underprivileged children—empowering them with both technology and essential life skills.

“We’re incredibly excited that Thomaz and Arjun have joined our board of directors,” says Jennifer Churchill, EKO President & CEO. “Both bring experience in business growth, innovation, and leadership across sectors that are critical to the future of children’s healthcare in this province. Their strategic vision, as well as their national and international perspectives, will be invaluable as we continue working to ensure developmental healthcare in Ontario is Canada’s Gold Standard.”

According to the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services, right now one in three kids begins their school years with a disability or developmental need. Access to care at the right time in a child’s development supports families and optimizes a child’s development potential. Research shows early intervention and clinical care mean kids are more likely to achieve positive outcomes in multiple areas of development, including cognitive, social, emotional, and behavioural functioning.