Contact us
Get in touch with our team
Chief Executive Officer
Britney Brewster, MBA
britney@streetsmartventures.com
​
Director of Programs
Mia Santilli, BSW
​
Director of Community & Partnerships
Michael Scanlon IV, BA
michael@streetsmartventures.com
​
Founder in Resident
Alan MacKenzie, MBA, MIT Sloan Graduate
​
Director of Media and Marketing
John Ciambriello
john@streetsmartventures.com​​​
General Inquries
MEET THE TEAM
Dedication. Expertise. Passion.
At Street Smart Ventures, our team is united by a shared passion for empowering young adults through creativity, entrepreneurship, and real-world experience. Founded by Alan McKenzie—whose vision and leadership laid the foundation for our mission—Street Smart Ventures continues to benefit from his ongoing wisdom and support as a key advisor and mentor. Today, the team is led by Britney Brewster and supported by a dedicated group of changemakers, including John Ciambriello (Director of Media & Marketing), Mia Santilli (Program Manager), and Michael Scanlon (Curriculum & Training Lead). Together, we bring decades of experience across education, mental health, and community development. Through our collaborative efforts, we design impactful work-to-learn programs that equip individuals with hands-on skills, real-world knowledge, and meaningful pathways to personal and professional growth.
Chief Executive Officer
Britney Brewster, MBA
britney@streetsmartventures.com
​
Hi, I’m Britney, and I have the privilege of serving as the CEO of Street Smart Ventures, LLC. I lead this organization with one big belief: entrepreneurship isn’t just about business—it’s about unlocking potential and creating new pathways for how people see themselves, their goals, and their communities.
​
With a background in psychology, business and entrepreneurship, I’ve spent my career focused on designing programs that inspire creativity, build confidence, and spark opportunity. At Street Smart Ventures, my role is to help guide the big vision while staying deeply connected to the people and ideas that bring it to life.
Every workshop we run, every program we design, and every entrepreneur we support is part of a larger mission—to empower individuals to explore their passions, embrace their ideas, and take ownership of their growth.
When I’m not strategizing with our team or collaborating with partners, you can find me covered in dirt as I attempt to garden and tame my lawn. I often break for great podcasts (check out ours) or jumping into an inspiring nonfiction novel, currently, Helping People Change by Boyatzis, Smith, and Van Oosten.​​​​
Thank you for being part of our community and for believing in the power of bold ideas and entrepreneurial spirit. I’m excited for what we’re building—together.
What’s your role at Street Smart Ventures?
I am currently the Chief Executive Officer. I guide the vision for Street Smart Ventures, but more than anything, my job is to support our team. I see myself as a builder of structure and opportunity—making sure our people feel trusted, empowered, and equipped to do meaningful work. Their innovation and commitment are what drive our impact
How did you start working in this field?
Delightfully, as an Education and Employment specialist at a nonprofit. My experience was life changing because I began to piece together why “work” is so important to me and why and how it impacts my identity. It ignited my passion, introduced me to a network that I still rely on today.
​
What do you enjoy most about your job?
What I love most about my work is the balance between autonomy and collaboration. I get to move quickly, solve complex problems, and make decisions that shape our direction—while working with a team that’s incredibly mission-driven. The energy, commitment, and creativity of the people around me are what make every challenge worth it.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
When I’m not working, I’m probably doing one of four things: digging through a thrift store, getting lost in a good book, making my backyard feel like a secret garden, or laughing with friends over something delicious and unplanned. I love the treasure hunt of thrifting—finding beauty and stories in unexpected places. Books are my reset button and my rabbit hole (sometimes both at once). Flowers make me slow down and pay attention. And there’s nothing better than turning a backyard hang into a soul-filling, joy-filled gathering. My free time is all about creativity, connection, and joy—which is probably why it always ends up feeding back into how I lead and create at work.
What’s a unique or interesting job you’ve held in the past?
I fell in love with entrepreneurship at a young age, working at an ice cream parlor/video rental shop. I ran both sides and on a Friday night, my mind and body were racing back and forth between the two counters like I was auditioning to become the flash. This job combined my two passions at the time, and it felt tremendous to be tasting new flavor combos while previewing the latest movie releases. I worked for an incredible woman who checked in on my weekly until I close out by myself. It was here, at “Clarissa’s” that I had a glimpse of a different kind of work life. One not of employees and standardized practice, but interest and desire motivating the operation. I met a woman who was her own boss, made her own rules, and treated her employees that aligned with her values. I watched her pivot as the shift from VHS to DVD took over and I proved that you could trust a 14-year-old with thousands of dollars a day. I thought I was joining into a small community establishment, next to the skate park and town package store that would provide me with mall money and a chance to make friends outside of school. In truth, it elevated my view to see opportunity and options I never knew existed.
Hello everyone!
​
I’m Mia Santilli, and I’m thrilled to serve as a Program Director here at Street Smart Ventures.
Although I’m relatively new to this field, having graduated last May with a degree in Social Work,
it feels like I’ve been preparing for this role for a long time. My involvement with Yaz and the
YAZBIZ program has been a pivotal part of my journey, and it’s been incredibly rewarding to take on
a role where I can help others reach their goals.
What drives me most is the belief that everyone deserves the chance to achieve their full
potential. Whether it’s celebrating big milestones or the smaller victories, it’s those little
moments where I truly see the impact of our work that bring me the most joy. I take great pride
in knowing that our programs not only change the lives of participants but also have a positive
ripple effect on the communities we engage with.
​
Director of Programs
Mia Santilli, BSW
mia@streetsmartventures.com
Outside of work, I’m a huge sports fan—whether playing or watching, I’m always up for the game! I also love trying new things, meeting new people, and exploring new places. Traveling is one of my greatest passions, and while I wish I could do it more often, I’m always seeking opportunities to broaden my horizons.
One of the most fulfilling roles I’ve had in the past was as a Job Coach with a post-secondary transition program supporting young adults with diverse learning, mental, and intellectual disabilities.. A standout experience was leading a project called “Fridge in the Square” in Harvard Square, where we helped individuals with budgeting, public transportation navigation, and meal preparation for those experiencing food insecurity. The lessons I learned in that role were just as valuable as what I taught, and it gave me a deep sense of fulfillment and appreciation for the incredible individuals I had the opportunity to work with.
Now, I’m excited to be a part of Street Smart Ventures, an organization that perfectly aligns with my passion for creating accessible opportunities for all. I look forward to meeting more amazing people and continuing to explore new ways to grow and make a meaningful impact!
Director of Community & Partnerships
Michael Scanlon IV, BA
michael@streetsmartventures.com
What’s your role at Street Smart Ventures?
My role is helping Street Smart Ventures form strong partnerships and connections locally, statewide, and nationally. I also help SSV with educational offerings and using media for storytelling, education and engagement.
How did you start working in this field?
In some ways, I really feel like I stumbled into this field 10 years ago after working in different roles. Looking back, I also can see the common themes in different jobs that I have had that have helped me grow along the way.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I love the creative freedom I have, and the opportunities I have to help move people and the system forward. I really enjoy making connections and helping others learn and find ways we can do great things through collaboration. I also love the SSV team! Each team member brings their unique gifts and talents, and we all can bounce ideas off of each other and help each other out. I love that SSV is growing along with us, and it is exciting to help shape the future of an organization.
​
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I love to read books, watch movies, be outside in nature, draw, and last but not least, be with my cats! You will probably hear me mention a show I have been watching or bring up my cats at least once in a conversation!
What’s a unique or interesting job you’ve held in the past?
A part time job I had in the past was a contracted freelance makeup artist for a brand. I used to work for a national beauty store, and then was asking around to try freelancing. It was a very cool job to go to different stores independently and assist clients and get to know each team. (I feel like half my life has been asking myself "wouldn't that be interesting?" and then seeing if I can make it happen!
Founder in Resident
Alan MacKenzie, MBA, MIT Sloan Graduate
alan@streetsmartventures.com
Founder in Residence & Program Manager – Street Smart Ventures
Alan MacKenzie is the Founder in Residence and a foundational leader at Street Smart Ventures. With over five decades of high-level experience across Fortune 500 companies, entrepreneurial startups, and nonprofit organizations, Alan brings unmatched depth and perspective to SSV’s mission of empowering individuals through work-to-learn programs. He holds an MBA from Stanford University and is a proud MIT Sloan Fellow, combining world-class education with practical innovation.
Alan’s diverse career includes leadership roles at United Technologies, General Foods, Chevron, and Hitchcock Chair Company, where he served as President and CEO during a successful turnaround. In the nonprofit sector, he founded Our Piece of the Pie (OPP), a youth business incubator that launched 18 businesses, served 900+ youth annually, and earned national recognition from the U.S. Department of Labor and CT Voices for Children. He also co-founded Fresh Start Enterprises, reducing recidivism by 60% through vocational training and peer mentorship for returning citizens.
Today, Alan continues to serve as a Program Manager and strategic advisor, mentoring teams, shaping curricula, and championing the transformative power of purpose-driven work. His legacy of innovation, compassion, and entrepreneurial spirit is deeply woven into the DNA of Street Smart Ventures.
Director of Media and Marketing
John Ciambriello
john@streetsmartventures.com
Hey, I’m John, and I’m proud to serve as the Director of Media and Marketing at Street Smart Ventures. To me, this isn’t just about managing campaigns or distributing newsletters—it’s about using creative expression to inspire, connect, and drive meaningful change in people’s lives.
With a background in the arts, community programming, and visual storytelling, I’ve spent my career helping individuals discover their voice, their talents, and their unique path forward. At Street Smart Ventures, I’m focused on finding new and authentic ways to share our participants’ stories, showcase their accomplishments, and highlight the impact of their creativity and determination.
Every poster I design, every email I send, and every event I help promote is driven by one goal—to empower others to see their own potential and show the world what’s possible when passion meets purpose.
When I’m not crafting content or planning events, you’ll often find me with a guitar in hand, performing acoustic sets at weddings and nursing homes, or experimenting with video
projects and graphic design. Music has always been a core part of who I am, and it fuels my passion for creating experiences that bring people together and leave a lasting impression.
What’s your role at Street Smart Ventures?
I serve as the Director of Media and Marketing. My role is to help tell the stories of our participants and programs, and to ensure that everything we create reflects the heart of Street Smart Ventures. Whether it’s through a newsletter, social media, or event promotions, I’m here to make sure our message resonates and inspires.
How did you start working in this field?
My path began in the world of community arts and vocational programming, where I discovered the power of creativity to transform lives. From running expressive arts workshops to launching community events, I found that storytelling—whether through music, video, or design—was at the core of everything I did. That passion naturally led me to focus on media and marketing as a way to amplify those stories and help others see what’s possible.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I love having the opportunity to create something meaningful every day. Whether it’s a new logo, an event poster, or a monthly newsletter, I get to help shape how people experience Street Smart Ventures. Most importantly, I enjoy working with a talented, mission-driven team. Their dedication and creativity inspire me to keep finding new ways to engage and connect with our community.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
When I’m not at work, I'm enjoying my family! I’m often performing acoustic music, spending time outdoors, or exploring creative projects. I love organizing community open mic nights, experimenting with video editing, or simply relaxing with a guitar. Music, creativity, and connection are at the center of my free time—just as they are at the center of my work.
What’s a unique or interesting job you’ve held in the past?
One of the most unique and formative jobs I’ve ever had was selling Christmas trees for a family-owned garden center in Milford called Gloria’s. It was my very first job, and it lit a spark in me that I didn’t even know existed. Every customer who came looking for the perfect tree offered an opportunity—not just to sell, but to serve. The possibility of earning a tip made me realize how important it was to go above and beyond, and it gave me my first real lesson in customer service. I loved being outdoors, covered in pine scent, tying trees onto car roofs, into trunks, or whatever creative solution the moment called for. Though the job only lasted two months each year, it planted something lasting in me—a passion for helping people, working hard, and taking pride in small moments that bring others joy. It wasn’t just a job; it was the beginning of how I learned to care, connect, and contribute.