Meet Our Team

Neha Ruhela

Executive Director (she/her)

Neha is deeply passionate about helping children learn, grow, and thrive. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Technology and a postgraduate degree in Management, and is also a certified wellness and mindfulness educator. Over the years, she has had the privilege of supporting children from underserved communities, helping children build confidence, curiosity, and a genuine love for learning. She is devoted to creating a nurturing, welcoming, and organized environment where every child can flourish and every family feels truly valued. When Neha isn’t at work, she enjoys traveling, reading, and spending time with her family — including her tiny Chiweenie.

Tara Koster

Centre Director (she/her)

Tara has over 15 years experience at Sylvan, first as a tutor and for many years as a Director of Education. As the Centre Director she oversees the operation of Sylvan in Oakville and ensures the educational integrity of our programs, managing and training our team of tutors. A former classroom teacher, Tara has a wealth of knowledge combined with passion to see every student achieve their academic potential. Tara graduated from McMaster University and The University of Calgary and has worked for Sylvan in both Alberta and in a number of locations in Ontario.  When Tara isn’t at work, you will find her spending time with her two daughters, reading and enjoying the outdoors.

Braden Clarke

Teacher (he/him)

Braden lives in Oakville and is excited to help you learn. Currently, Braden attends McMaster University, enrolled in his fourth year in Mechanical Engineering and Business Management Degree. He teaches all levels of our Math Program, Physics and Sciences, and Chemistry. Always ready for the challenge, Braden is eager to help you with any difficult question or problem. Braden aims to take the concepts learned in class and simplify them so they are understandable and digestible. Outside of teaching, Braden enjoys hikes, hockey, volleyball, snowboarding and rock climbing.

Cameron Clarke

Teacher (he/him)

Cameron is currently enrolled at McMaster University, pursuing a degree in Psychology and Neuroscience with a Specialization in Mental Health. He teaches all levels of our Math and Biology Program. Cameron finds joy in interacting with students and learning about their unique stories so that he can support them in achieving their wildest dreams and overcoming particular challenges. He hopes to make school less stressful and more enjoyable for his students. When he is not teaching, Cameron enjoys activities like snowboarding, volleyball, and hanging out with his friends and family, including his 170-pound Newfoundland dog.

Bhagatinder Longia

Teacher (he/him)

Bhagatinder is currently a student at the University of Toronto, Mississauga, pursuing a degree in Statistics, Geographical Systems, and Computer Science. He became a tutor because he loves helping others understand new concepts, especially tough math problems, and he also enjoys learning a lot in the process. Outside of tutoring, you can find Bhagatinder reading wherever he goes. He is currently a big fan of the Lee Child Jack Reacher novels.

Vivek Ramakrishnan

Teacher (he/him)

Vivek completed his undergraduate degree in French at the University of Waterloo and then completed Teacher’s College at Nipissing University. He then continued his studies, receiving his masters and PhD in French Renaissance Literature. He now teaches French at Walden International School in Oakville. Vivek likes tutoring because he finds it rewarding and enjoys helping students learn. When he is not tutoring, you can find Vivek travelling and spending time with his family.

Helena Nikitopoulos

Teacher

Helena has experience in book publishing and editing, as well as writing for platforms such as CTV and The Oakville Beaver. She combines her editorial expertise along with her innate people skills to build meaningful relationships with her students and foster their confidence in school. Holding a Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature from Western University and a Master’s Certificate in Editing and Publishing from Toronto Metropolitan University, she is currently completing a Bachelor of Education with a specialization in English at Brock University. Helena discovered a profound passion for supporting students as they grow into confident leaders, writers, and thinkers. When she is not writing or teaching, Helena can be found at the gym or in a Pilates class, as health and wellness remains a central focus in her day to day.