Our Team

Hi everyone! I’m Tolu, the founder of BrainCore and sort of a Jane of all trades! I’ve always been curious about how we as humans operate and think. I started BrainCore in 2020 with a friend of mine, Kristina Valkanas, to bridge the gap between psychology and the general public, and it’s been an amazing journey so far. I’m currently a PhD student in the Adult Clinical Psychology program at York University. I also have a Masters in Clinical Psychology and have worked with diverse clinical populations and age groups from infants to seniors. I’m also deeply passionate about serving my community and impacting society through the work I do with a non-profit called the African Impact Initiative. Fun fact about me: I play 4 instruments!!

I am currently a Master’s student in the Adult Clinical Neuropsychology program at York University. I completed my BA in psychology at Western University. My research explores decision-making in both healthy individuals and clinical populations and how social and emotional factors can influence the choices people make.I have always been curious about how the brain supports behaviour and why people behave, think, and feel differently across various situations. I am extremely passionate about knowledge translation and accessibility and application of research findings, especially in clinical settings. Outside research and education, I enjoy reading, cooking, occasional crafting, and hiking. Fun fact about me, I fluently speak an almost dead language 

I graduated with an Honours BA in Psychology from York University. I’m currently working as a research assistant in the TULiP Lab at York and as a psychometrist in two private clinics, where I conduct neuropsychological assessments. I’ve always been fascinated by how people adapt to challenges, and by the role that trauma and resilience play in shaping who we become, that curiosity is what led me to psychology. Fun fact about me: I’m a bit of an adrenaline junkie. I went skydiving a few years ago, and my next adventure on the list is bungee jumping!

I’m currently pursuing a BSc in Psychology with a focus on the role of psychology in social interactions and relationships. I chose psychology because I’m intrigued by how shared mental experiences lead to unique perceptions, which in turn direct unique decisions and realities. Building on these interests, my professional experience bridges psychology, media, and marketing, where I’ve explored how people connect with ideas, communities, and brands through behavior and storytelling. A fun fact about me is that during COVID,  I taught myself the ukulele, which sparked my passion to explore other instruments (currently the bass)!

I support the BrainCore Podcast with innovative marketing and community engagement strategies that help amplify its reach and impact. With a first-class honours degree in Biomedical Science and Psychology, I bring both scientific insight and creative vision to the team.

I’m passionate about health equity - particularly in mental health and broader healthcare systems; and committed to making knowledge more accessible and engaging. With experience in communications, equity-focused initiatives, and health research, I help shape approaches that connect BrainCore to diverse audiences while advancing conversations that matter.

In my spare time, I’m a renowned Afrofusion chef and also enjoy creating faith-based, travel and food content, spotlighting historically hidden locations, brands, and businesses. This blend of storytelling and cultural exploration reflects my love for cultural exploration and  highlighting voices and experiences that often go unseen.

I am deeply curious about the engine that is the brain and the psychology that shapes our thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. I am currently completing my Honours Bachelor of Science at the University of Toronto Scarborough, double majoring in Psychology and Neuroscience. My goal is to earn a Doctorate in Psychology and pursue a career as a Psychologist. My research experience includes working as a research assistant on a study of anticipatory anxiety, where I helped to collect data to better understand psychological response patterns. I am passionate about empowering others with mental health awareness and making psychological knowledge accessible through research, public speaking, and creative projects like the BrainCore podcast. Outside of academics, I enjoy playing piano, singing, and people watching. Fun fact about me: I am fluent in both English and French!