About BioTroopers
Hands-on biology programs for kids ages 5-12, founded by a scientist mom.
Meet Vaishali, Founder & Lead Instructor
I started BioTroopers with a simple goal: to make biology exciting, hands-on, and approachable for school-aged kids. As a scientist with a background in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, and Genomics — and over a decade of experience in academia, pharma, biotech, and health-tech — I've always loved the science of life.
The idea for BioTroopers came to life when I shared my passion with my curious 6-year-old daughter. As I looked for ways to nurture her interest, I realized there weren't many fun, engaging resources that helped kids explore biology in a way that sparked wonder.
Driven by the belief that "when you want to see change, you have to be the change," I founded BioTroopers Inc. Our mission is to ignite curiosity in young minds through creative, hands-on experiments, art-based activities, music and theater that make learning biology feel like an adventure.
Through BioTroopers, we're building a space where kids don't just learn about life — they fall in love with it.
Meet the Team
Chloe VanGroningen
Chloe is a recent theater undergrad with a huge love for learning and getting their hands dirty! Other than being supremely artistic, they've been working in March break and summer camps since they were 16, and have a passion for working with children and youth ever since. Chloe is extremely excited to jump into the world of biology with BioTroopers, and ask questions and discover answers to how the world around us works!
Josie El-Ramady
Josie is a Biology Student completing her BSc in Biology with a Psychology minor at Toronto Metropolitan University. Josie loves all things science, especially genetics! She loves working in the lab to discover what makes everybody unique through DNA research! She has also been working with kids for the past 7 years, and has loved it ever since! At BioTroopers, Josie helps the kids in their experiments and scientific questioning. In her free time, Josie enjoys cooking and trying new recipes. She is very excited to continue working with the Biotroopers team!
Shibi Riju
Shibi has been teaching for more than 6 years and has a Master's degree in Science and is an Ontario Certified Teacher. Her love for learning extends across various scientific disciplines, but biology holds a special place in her heart. Shibi is thrilled to be a part of the Biotroopers team and share her enthusiasm for biology with students, inspiring them to discover the wonders of the natural world.
Chitra Unnikrishnan
Chitra Unnikrishnan is a seasoned senior executive with deep expertise in Corporate Strategy, Marketing, Product Development, and Customer Experience. With a track record spanning the SaaS, Telecommunications, and Consulting industries, she brings a strategic, customer-centric approach to business growth and innovation. Chitra currently consults on strategy and growth for BioTroopers, helping us scale our impact and reach.
Kyla Leggatt
Kyla Leggatt is a Nursing student with a deep love for Biology and a genuine passion for making science fun and accessible for kids. She brings warmth, empathy, and dedication to everything she does. Kyla is also a trained dancer with experience in Ballet, Jazz, and Contemporary styles, and has run dance camps for children. With BioTroopers, she brings all of her passions together as an instructor in Etobicoke, Toronto.
Where we run programs
We run camps, after-school programs, and workshops across four GTA locations:
Get in touch
BioTroopers would love to connect with you! Don't hesitate to get in touch with any questions regarding our curriculum, camps, schedules or anything else.
Reach out at info@biotroopers.com, or DM us on our Instagram page.