About Legacy Shoes

We walk alongside youth, transforming lives through footwear, sports, and education for Black, Indigenous, and visible minority children.

Stepping

Our vision and mission

Empowering youth through footwear and education across communities

Vision

Building pathways to confidence and opportunity

We believe every child deserves the chance to step forward with dignity and hope

Mission

Transforming lives through sports and education

Creating equitable access for Black, Indigenous, and visible minority children

Journey

The story behind legacy shoes exchange

From Jamaica to Canada, one pair of shoes changed everything.

Timeline

Our journey of hope and transformation

From a single moment of kindness to a movement changing lives across Canada.

1993

Seeds of inspiration

A teacher’s gift of Nike shoes in grade 9, sparks a lifelong mission of giving. The first step towards understanding the power of footwear in a child’s life.

2009

First community connections

Began collecting and distributing shoes to local children, schools, and community centers. Witnessed the immediate impact of proper footwear on children’s confidence.

2018

Expanding our reach

Formalized partnerships with schools, shelters, and community organizations. Developed rigorous shoe collection and distribution protocols.

2025

Becoming a not-for-profit

Officially registered as Legacy Shoes Exchange. Committed to providing equitable access to footwear and sporting equipment for Black, Indigenous, and visible minority children.

Impact

They fit now

A simple pair of shoes can transform a child’s world. More than protection, they are a symbol of dignity, opportunity, and hope.

Leadership

Our team

Dedicated individuals committed to creating opportunities for youth

Moncelano C. Hunter, BA (Hons)
Founder & President, Policy, Insight & Engagement

Born in Jamaica, driven by a childhood memory of a teacher’s kindness. Transformed personal experience into a mission of empowerment. Moncelano holds a Bachelor of Arts in Justice and Public Safety with High Honours from the University of Guelph, as well as a Business Diploma from Humber College. He is a licensed member of the Law Society and brings a strong professional background in civil litigation. His practice areas include Municipal Collections Litigation, Personal Injury Law, Motor Vehicle Accident claims, Slip and Fall cases, and advocacy in Small Claims Court matters.

Moncelano’s professional experience spans work with the Provincial Government, Municipal Government, and a major hospital in Toronto, providing him with a diverse and well-rounded perspective on legal and institutional frameworks.

Beyond his legal career, Moncelano is deeply committed to community engagement. His passion for service is reflected in his extensive involvement with non-profit organizations, where he contributes as a board member and serves on committees and advisory groups.

Freddie Williams
Advisor to the Board

Veteran educator with 30 years of experience supporting marginalized youth in the Greater Toronto area, and South Africa.  

Micah Hunter
Youth Director

Coming Soon

Tanya Mckenzie-Hunter
1st Vice President

Coming Soon

Randy Graham
2nd Vice President

Coming Soon

Samantha Frederick, MSW, RSW
Director of Social Services

Samantha Frederick is a Registered Social Worker and Psychotherapist with over fifteen years of experience supporting individuals, families, businesses, and organizations.  She is the Founder and CEO of Arise Mental Health Inc., where she designs and delivers evidence-informed programs that advance emotional, psychological, and mental wellness.  She also provides psychotherapy, assessments, and professional consultation tailored to the unique needs of those she supports.

Specializing in mental health, trauma, and sports psychology, Samantha’s holistic and eclectic approach helps her navigate complex dynamics and provide tailored support.  She fosters high-trust, psychologically safe spaces and emphasizes that mental wellness is not a luxury, but a vital skill for personal growth, well-being, and professional effectiveness.

Anna Rusk
Directory of Treasury

Anna has spent more than three decades turning compassion into action. She believes in empowering the next generation and dedicated her life to avian rescue. 

Whether she is fueling a child’s potential to ensure their future success, backing impactful charitable organizations, or providing a safe sanctuary for rescued and rehomed birds, she believes that true community is built on generosity.