Ria Arora, the Founder and Executive Director of SAY, established the nonprofit at the age of 20 during her 3rd year as an undergraduate in Social Work at Toronto Metropolitan University. She holds both a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in Social Work and is embarking on her doctoral journey in Social Work at McMaster University in September 2024. Additionally, she is a registered social worker (RSW).

Ria's professional experience spans various sectors, including the nonprofit sector, child welfare (Children’s Aid Society Scarborough) and healthcare (University Health Network | Toronto Rehab Institute, Organ Transplant | Bickle Center). Over her 5-year tenure in the nonprofit sector, she has diligently served over 10 different organizations. Currently, she serves as the Manager of Partnerships at the Council of Agencies Serving South Asians.