Be the first to hear about events, cleanups and exclusive volunteer opportunities
About PickWaste
PickWaste is a non-profit organization that is all about giving back to our community and clean up our planet. We are helping by making an impact through weekly litter cleanups across Canada. Almost all of our volunteers are students who care about the environment and want to earn their community service hours in a meaningful way.
It started in 2017 with four friends but has quickly spread throughout the community and country. We are a team and a family that welcomes members of any age, background and experience. So, what are you waiting for? Volunteer and help us, PickWaste!
Press
Say ‘trick-or-trash’ this Halloween: Pickering group – Toronto News (2020)
Pickering teens pick up trash and a $10,000 community prize – Durham Region (2019)
Two young environmentalists inspire change – CTV News (2018)
How 2 teens and their ‘Leaning Tower of Trash’ are aiming to clean up the GTA – CBC News (2018)
Student’s social venture empowers everyone to reduce waste – Waterloo University (2018)
Our Team
"Sam Demma is an entrepreneur, youth coach, and keynote speaker. He co-founded the volunteer organization PickWaste, created the High Performing Student, delivered two TEDx Talks, and is a Board Director of the Canadian Association of Professional Speakers."
Sam Demma
Co-Founder
"Dillon is extremely passionate about community engagement, human behaviour, and working with tech start-ups. He is also an alumnus of the Top 35 under 35 Global Changemaker awards, and a TEDx & Canadian Youth Speaker. He has previously worked in advisory at Deloitte and growth at DarwinAI. Professional life aside, Dillon enjoys playing carrom, strength training, and eating sushi."
Dillon Mendes
Co-Founder
"Julia loves all things related to tech and social good. She currently works as a co-op student at ecobee. In her free time, Julia likes to play video games, collect trivia facts, and create paintings of trees."
Julia Zhang
Head of Web Development
"Emile is a communications and social media specialist with a passion for sports, music, and sustainability. He serves as a Digital Content Assistant with the Ryerson Rams and has written for The Eyeopener and RUTV News."
Emile Riga
Head of Marketing
"Patrick is a challenge seeker looking to contribute to impactful projects around SDGs. He leverages his skills from previous roles at Deloitte and CAPREIT. During his free time, he stays active, plays video games, and looks for the next big investment."
Patrick Feng
Head of Development and Strategy
"Vaina is passionate about the environment and sustainability and is constantly looking for new ways to educate others regarding ongoing issues. During her spare time, she enjoys swimming, baking, and memorizing the Hamilton soundtrack."
Vania Chow
Editor in Chief
"Leilani is an environmental and human rights activist who is passionate about positive change and education. Through working in mental health facilities such as Ontario Shores, leading various school clubs, and being a writer for Rani Creative, Leilani continues to broaden her experience in various areas. In her spare time, Leilani loves to draw, tutor and go on hikes."
