Founder & Event Director
Hello! my name is Candice also known in the community as Shanatina. My pronouns are she/her. I am a neurodivergent female. (ADHD, GAD, PTSD).
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My journey into the BDSM and kink community began in 2012 when I attended my first munch, quickly followed by a play party. That initial experience sparked a deep interest in learning more about different kinks, dynamics, and the educational aspects of the lifestyle. For a time, I worked professionally as a dominatrix before stepping away to explore other passions.
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In 2020, I founded Hototo Pack, a primal play community that started as a mix of online and in-person gatherings for those interested in exploring primal tendencies. What began as a small group soon flourished into a thriving online community. However, after COVID-19, I noticed a significant lack of events and safe spaces for kinksters in the Niagara region. Many individuals were seeking education, resources, and connections, but options were scarce.
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Recognizing this gap, I launched The Taboo Collective Events—a Niagara-based organization committed to fostering inclusive, educational, and community-focused events for those interested in BDSM, kink, sex-positivity, and alternative lifestyles. Through this organization, I strive to create safe, judgment-free spaces where people can explore, learn, and connect with others who share their interests. From small social gatherings to large-scale events, my goal is to empower individuals, support local businesses, and build a strong community that embraces diverse expressions of sexuality, relationships, and self-discovery.
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While The Taboo Collective Events shares a similar name, we are not affiliated with the Taboo Show in Toronto—our mission is to serve Niagara and its surrounding communities, providing accessible, well-curated events that center around consent, safety, and inclusion.
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I have always been passionate about community building and advocacy. As an experienced speaker, volunteer, activist, and event organizer, I take pride in creating welcoming environments where people can safely explore their identities and connect with like-minded individuals. Oh, and when I’m not organizing events, you’ll probably find me nerding out over pop culture, gaming, or deep-diving into new research on human sexuality!
Event Coordinator
About Ayla (Blue) Pronouns (they/them)
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Hello, my name is Ayla am a neurodivergent (ADHD and more)—though many in the community know me as Blue. I'm a fun-loving, quirky, and creative soul with a deep love for adventure and learning. While I can be shy at first and rarely send the first message, once you get past that, you'll find someone who is silly, funny, and full of personality.
I have a passion for books, TV, and movies, but I also love working with my hands. Crafting is a big part of my life, from chainmaille and dream catchers to leatherwork and other creative projects. In fact, I’ve turned my passion into a side business, crafting unique chainmail pieces. Beyond that, I enjoy a good game of pool, board games with friends, or just relaxing by a bonfire. The outdoors still calls to me, and while it’s been a while since my last camping or fishing trip, it’s always something I’d love to do more of.
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My journey in the BDSM and kink community began years ago, and since then, I’ve gained extensive experience exploring, learning, and growing within the lifestyle. I have a deep appreciation for education and connection in this space and always enjoy expanding my knowledge.
As a demisexual, connection is everything to me. Attraction isn’t just about appearances—it’s about forming a bond first. If you take the time to get to know me, you’ll find someone who is warm, thoughtful, and always up for a great conversation.
Organizer
Hello, I'm Dee (she/her).
I'm rather new in the kink community but I am passionate about creating safe spaces for people to discuss, explore and remove the stigma regarding kink and queer topics. I work within these communities to assist and promote events and projects that bring people together.
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As someone who's struggled with their gender identity and sexuality, it's heartening to see that many taboo subjects like polyamory, gender identity and kink are more openly discussed than ever. However I firmly believe the work is not yet done. By promoting safe places for people to learn and find resources, we can help others understand themselves and find communities to support them. By building connections and understanding our own needs, we create a better world for ourselves and those around us.