About BANA

Luciana Rosu Sieza, BA. Honors

I am a mother, a wife, a leader, an educator and a motivator with a GREAT passion for life. I was born in Romania and lived in Montreal, QC for some of my childhood years. I have spent the majority of my life in Windsor- a community that is diverse and has so much to offer. I graduated from the University of Windsor in Psychology with a minor in French.

I started at BANA over 11 years ago as the Health Promotion Manager (prevention), which is an area that I am extremely passionate about. In 2012, I was appointed as the Executive Director at BANA. It is a privilege to be in this position and to work with the amazing board, staff, funders and community partners who are all so dedicated to this important work. I sit on a number of committees, which allows me to engage and learn more about our community.

I am married to Tony and have 2 children Gabriela and Antonio who are my world. I love to travel and see the world from my own lens. I enjoy going for walks and spending time with family and friends. I value the community I live in and try to make a difference whenever and whenever I can.

Rose Verzosa, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW

I was born and raised in Windsor. I graduated from the University of Windsor with a combined Honors Bachelor of Social Work and Women’s and Gender Studies in 2020 and my Master of Social Work in 2021. As a student I was able to intern at a local long-term care home and Windsor Regional Hospital. Prior to coming to BANA, I have had the privilege to work at Windsor Pride Community, W.E Trans Support, Welcome Centre Shelter for Women and Families and Hiatus House. While in school I was allowed the opportunity co-facilitate an on-campus sexual violence education program for University age women. I am extremely passionate about intersectional feminism and doing my part as an ally to educate myself and help uplift marginalized voices.

I am very grateful to be a part of the BANA team as a clinical intake worker. When I am not at work I enjoy curating playlists, reading novels, hanging out with my favourite cat (Rico) and spending time with my loved ones.

Kayla Cheeseman, MSW, RSW

Originally from Toronto, ON, I have lived in Windsor since 2016. Upon my arrival, I was able to complete my Honours Bachelor of Social Work and Disability Studies Degree in 2020 and my Master of Social Work Degree in 2021. Fortunately, I have had the pleasure of working with varied populations across several agencies within and outside of the city. My passion for mental health is exemplified in my clinical work at agencies such as the Learning Disabilities Association of Windsor-Essex, University of Windsor, and Hotel Dieu Grace Healthcare.

I am so grateful that I have the opportunity to continue to be an advocate and ally for the populations that we serve here at BANA. Moreover, I am so fortunate to work for an incredible agency with an amazing team!

Outside of working, you will often find me listening to music, travelling, photographing my pets (my dog Koda and cat Nebula), or spending time with friends and family.

Kia Peters, RD

I was born and raised in Leamington, ON and am a proud Anishinaabe Kwe (Ojibwe woman) from Caldwell First Nation. My academic journey began in 2012 when I started studying Medical Sciences at Western University and went on to complete a Master’s degree in Human Physiology and Pharmacology. It was during that time I discovered my love for food and nutrition and decided to go back to undergraduate studies to become a Registered Dietitian. I completed my degree in Foods and Nutrition at Brescia University College (Western University) in 2021, followed by my internship through Brescia’s Diploma in Dietetics Education and Practical Training Program (DDEPT). Since making the switch to become a dietitian my life and heart have been so full. Understanding how food nourishes our body is my passion and I love helping clients develop a healthy relationship with food.

A little more about me…I love spending time outdoors, whether it’s fishing with my grandpa and my dad, hiking, canoeing, or playing sports like baseball or disc golf. I also love practicing yoga, spending time with my family and friends and trying new recipes from other cultures! Although I love cooking, baking is my true passion. I have 3 fur babies, a rescue dog named Dobby and two cats – they are my whole world!

.

Alexia Sauls Ramos , MSW, RSW

Originally from Mississauga, I have called Windsor home since 2015. I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts honors degree in Psychology from the University of Guelph in, followed by a Master of Social Work at the University of Toronto. I started my career as an emergency department Social Worker before settling into work as a therapist. While I have always been dedicated to supporting people in all areas of need, I truly found my passion in the field of eating disorders. Having worked extensively with adolescents, young adults, and their families for many years, it has become evident how much early experiences can impact an individual and contribute to the development of an eating disorder. It was this that drew me to my current role in eating disorder prevention. I am excited to now be part of a province wide initiative to support communities in their efforts to prevent disordered eating and eating disorders before they start.

An avid traveler earlier in my life, I am now happiest at home with my family and dog where we love to bake, read, play, and explore. When time allows, I enjoy embroidery, crochet, and a good TV show

Chandima Weeratunga, CPA, CGA

I am a graduate from St. Clair College in Business Administration-Accounting and the University of Windsor with a degree in Business Management. I am certified in CGA (Certified General Accountant) and CPA (Certified Professional Accountant).
I joined BANA in 2007 and I’m currently working as an accountant. In addition to the accounting work, I am responsible for the government reporting for BANA.
I am a mother of two boys, 20 and 15, with a busy schedule. Whenever I find a time I enjoy watching TV shows, and talking to my parents who live overseas.