ABOUT US
Evidence-based,
People-first,
Values-centred
Values-centred
With Minivillage, meet trustworthy neighbours, build a support network, and easily get involved with the local community.
Meaningful relationships & deep community building
At Minivillage we talk a lot about meaningful connections. Connections with friends, connections with families, connections in workplaces, in society. But do meaningful connections really matter?
How it all started
Minivillage was created out of one average, run-of-the-mill person’s journey to find friends within a lonely city. Having lived in crowded metropolises in Europe, Asia and North America, Mark knew firsthand the challenges of finding a place to belong - especially as a newcomer.
Shortly after settling in Vancouver, Mark did something he had never done before. As a social experiment, he knocked on doors of neighbours to introduce himself - to see what would happen! Instead of the expected suspicious looks or even slammed doors, neighbours opened up their lives. Many shared they were lonely and stressed. Everyone wanted to feel connected with like-minded friends.
Shortly after settling in Vancouver, Mark did something he had never done before. As a social experiment, he knocked on doors of neighbours to introduce himself - to see what would happen! Instead of the expected suspicious looks or even slammed doors, neighbours opened up their lives. Many shared they were lonely and stressed. Everyone wanted to feel connected with like-minded friends.
"In big cities it's challenging to transform fears and self-interest into connectedness and caring for others. Minivillage is a solution. Meaningful community connections boost wellbeing, provide possibilities and create a brighter future."
Mark, Founder & CEO
Finding a solution
Fast forward to today, Minivillage specializes in fostering meaningful relationships and deep community building. Our team, researchers, coordinators and advisors are committed to building neighbourhoods where you belong. A space where you feel welcomed, appreciated and supported.
We are the first organization to design an evidence-based system for residents and housing providers - combining resident coordinators with a platform that helps communities thrive and for you to thrive within them.
We are the first organization to design an evidence-based system for residents and housing providers - combining resident coordinators with a platform that helps communities thrive and for you to thrive within them.
Read about our Mission, Vision & Values
"Minivillage is more than just a digital platform, and at Minivillage we are more than just a team. We live and work with purpose, belief, and the knowledge that we are rebuilding lost connections and developing better communities."
Tracy, Senior Product Engineer
Introducing the team
Alyssa Sacal
Head of Growth
Anumeet (Annie) Chepal
Community Partnerships
Brynn Williams
Engagement Program Manager
Kim-Sa Ngo
Community Specialist
María Heredia
Community Specialist
Mark Boardman
Founder & CEO
Neha Adinamozhi
UX/UI Designer
Phoebe Zhou
UX/UI Designer
Sharon Hsiao
Digital Experience Consultant
"I believe that one of the biggest problems facing humanity today is disconnection. We are in a constant state of distraction and it is making us feel disconnected from nature, ourselves, and each other. Connection, a sense of belonging, and trust are not only the foundations of Minivillage, but our well-being. Let’s be human again."
Alyssa, Head of Growth
Introducing the advisors
Fatima Ahmad
Legal Advisor
Jenna Van Draanen
Social Impact Advisor
Kelly Hager
Go-to-Market Advisor
Mohamed Salama
Tech Product Consultant
Tracey Pham
Sales and Marketing Advisor
Healthier communities, start with closer communities
Neighbourly ties help us live longer, healthier, and happier.