Samanta Krishnapillai is a visionary, trailblazing Founder & CEO of Group Project Initiatives, a transformative social enterprise dedicated to fostering a culture of care and activation. Samanta has reshaped Canada’s edu-media landscape, making complex social and political issues accessible and actionable for diverse communities nationwide, as the editor in chief of On Canada Project.

A first-generation Tamil-Canadian, Samanta’s journey from a Master's student at Western University to a leading social entrepreneur is fueled by her unwavering commitment to social good, community empowerment and civic engagement. Initially launched as a passion project to combat COVID-19 disinformation, On Canada Project has evolved into a dynamic platform that addresses critical issues such as anti-racism, decolonization, and systemic oppression.

Samanta’s unique combination of lived experience, academic knowledge, and professional expertise drives her mission for change. With a background in health equity, trauma-informed care, diversity and inclusion, and system change, along with extensive experience in advocacy and community building, she is equipped to create impactful and lasting transformation.

Under her leadership, On Canada Project has become an award-winning media platform known for its unapologetic stance on human rights and its ability to spark inclusive, compassionate conversations. Samanta’s innovative approach to media and community engagement has earned her accolades such as Best Health Magazine’s Women of the Year and 2020 Health Hero, and recognition from the Tamil Canadian Centre for Civic Action, Canadian Tamil Professional Association, Atelier Collective, and Future of Good.

At Group Project Initiatives, Samanta champions the creation of third spaces—vibrant hubs for intergenerational, interdisciplinary, and intersectional dialogue, learning, and problem-solving. Through initiatives like the Social Good Collective and Good Trouble Studios, she empowers individuals, communities and organizations to collaborate on the urgent challenges of our time, nurturing a culture of care and collective action.

A dynamic and compassionate leader, Samanta is dedicated to building a future where inclusivity, equity, and compassion are at the core of our societal values. Samanta challenges herself and the people around her to show up fully and unapologetically as their full selves.