MEET THE FOUNDERS
Bound by friendship. Driven by purpose. United in creating a future where neurodiversity thrives.
EBOHON IDONIJE
Ebohon Idonije is a visionary educator, international ambassador, and dynamic leader whose life’s work centers on building bridges between cultures, communities, and individuals with special needs. For over 25 years, Ebohon has dedicated himself to fostering inclusion, unity, and empowerment—directly supporting over 1,000 families from Westmount to Calgary and beyond.
In 2000, after a four-year global journey, Ebohon arrived in Montreal and began what would become 22 years of service at Summit School. There, he met Gloria Cherney, founder of Summit School, and Herman Erdogmus, now Director General—formative relationships that became pivotal to his Canadian journey. It was also at Summit where he met his dear friend and future co-founder of United Explorers, Dolores Callegari—a partnership that continues to inspire transformative change within the neurodiverse community.
Ebohon is the Founding Board Member, Chairperson, and International Ambassador of the Montreal Autism Community Lions Club (MACLC) and led the creation of the Nigerian Autism Community Lions Club alongside PDG Lady Kema Ashibuogwu, Present Chair of the African Forum Committee and International Relations of Lions District 404B4 Nigeria.
At the heart of Ebohon’s mission is the desire to fuse the ancestral wisdom of his roots with the lived experiences of the neurodiverse individuals he serves. His guiding philosophy—grounded in unity, dignity, and unconditional love—drives his work to support, celebrate, empower, nurture, include, advocate, inspire, and serve. Through this vision, Ebohon continues to lift individuals, families, and entire communities toward a more inclusive and compassionate future.
CO-FOUNDER, CO-CEO & PROGRAM DIRECTOR
DOLORES CALLEGARI
CO-FOUNDER, CO-CEO & DIRECTOR OF BEHAVIORS
For over 30 years, Dolores Callegari has dedicated her life to empowering the neurodiverse community with compassion, integrity, and an unwavering belief in human potential. Her journey began in 1993 at Summit School, where she was hired on the spot as a classroom assistant. What began as a chance opportunity quickly blossomed into a lifelong mission. Dolores soon became a teacher, and for the past decade, she has served as a devoted behavior technician, continually advocating for inclusive education and meaningful support.
Originally pursuing a career in elder care after earning her degree in Special Care Counseling, Dolores discovered her true calling when she stepped into the world of neurodiverse education. Her passion for advocacy and her deep sense of empathy have impacted generations of students, families, and fellow educators.
In 2000, Dolores met Ebohon Idonije, a kindred spirit who would become a lifelong friend and collaborator. Together, they co-founded United Explorers, a values-driven initiative focused on inclusion, curiosity, and transformation.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Dolores has lived her values at home. She welcomed a 12-year-old girl with special needs into her family for a year, demonstrating the power of love, patience, and belonging. She also made it a priority to involve her two children, Kathryn and Nicholas, in the community from a young age—instilling in them the importance of empathy, inclusion, and using their gifts to uplift others.
Today, as Co-Founder, Co-CEO and Director of Behaviors at United Explorers, Dolores continues to lead with heart, vision, and a deep commitment to helping every individual grow, learn, and live a life filled with dignity, purpose, and love.
ASHLEY PANNESE
DIRECTOR OF MEDIA & ADMINISTRATION
Ashley Pannese is a devoted advocate, holistic practitioner, and communications professional whose journey has been shaped by a lifelong connection to the neurodiverse community. Growing up alongside her autistic brother, Ashley’s understanding of care, structure, and support was nurtured from an early age. These formative experiences instilled in her a deep commitment to creating environments where neurodiverse individuals can thrive.
Inspired by the transformative power of holistic living and the profound impact of sound therapy on the nervous system, Ashley became a Certified Holistic Health Coach and Sound Therapist in 2023. She views sound therapy as a powerful, non-verbal healing modality—especially vital in bridging the gap between traditional care and the unique needs of the neurodiverse community.
Ashley’s academic background includes a degree in Hotel Management and Tourism from LaSalle College (2018) and studies in media and communications. Her passion for community service found new momentum in 2023 when she connected with Ebohon Idonije and the vibrant family of the Montreal Autism Community Lions Club (MACLC). Quickly recognized for her dedication and talent, she became the Communications and Marketing Director of MACLC, working closely with President Lori-Ann Zemanovich and Ebohon to further their shared mission.
That same year, Ashley began volunteering weekly at United Explorers, where her bond with Dolores Callegari and Ebohon deepened. What began as service soon blossomed into family. Two years later, she now serves as Director of Media and Administration at United Explorers, where she merges her creative skills, holistic vision, and lived experience in pursuit of a more inclusive world.
Ashley leads with heart, purpose, and a deep belief in paving the way for the next generation—uplifting voices, creating connection, and building a future where every individual is seen, celebrated, and supported.
OUR ORIGIN STORY
Back in 2012, United Explorers was born from a simple yet powerful idea - that every neurodiverse young adult deserves a space beyond the classroom to grow, connect, and thrive. At the heart of this vision were two passionate educators, Ebohon Idonije and Dolores Callegari, who were immersed in the vibrant world of Summit School. They witnessed firsthand the daily challenges and triumphs of the neurodiverse community, and they recognized a need that extended far beyond school walls.
They dreamed of a place - a safe, uplifting space, where young adults could continue to build on their strengths, develop meaningful friendships, and engage with their community through recreational and life-enriching activities. A place where growth was not measured by grades or tests, but by confidence, joy, and connection.
Fast forward 13 years, and United Explorers Special Needs Program has blossomed into just that, a thriving hub of inclusion, learning, and love. It has become a cornerstone of the neurodiverse community, where lifelong friendships are made, skills are nurtured, and families find both support and belonging.
