Our Executive Board Members.

Aleksandra Plewa, CEO

Aleksandra Plewa is an environmental leader and social entrepreneur based in Chicago. With a background in Biology, she shifted from a career in laboratory work to founding EcoShip, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting small and local businesses while reducing waste. Inspired by her immigrant parents’ entrepreneurial spirit, Aleksandra learned early the value of hard work and community impact. In 2022, she launched EcoShip to highlight the environmental and economic benefits of material reuse across Illinois. She is passionate about building a more sustainable, resilient city. Outside of EcoShip, Aleksandra enjoys exploring nature and connecting with local makers.

Peter Proctor, CFO

Peter Proctor is a floriculturist at Garfield Park Conservatory. With a background in Environmental Science and Business, he brings extensive expertise to his role as EcoShip’s Chief Financial Officer, blending analytical skills with a passion for sustainability. Peter has been running an e-commerce store since 2019 and has always strive to make it sustainable. Peter has been reusing shipping materials since the day he started, in an effort to keep his business green. He is proud to help advance EcoShip’s mission of reducing waste and supporting a circular economy. Outside of his typical work day, you can find Peter building shelves for EcoShip or tending plants in his backyard.

Lynn Dalsing

Lynn Dalsing is the Director of Ecommerce at Hero Bread, with more than a decade of experience in digital marketing, merchandising, and ecommerce strategy. Her career has included leadership roles at CamelBak and Ingrid & Isabel, where she built systems and teams that drove measurable growth. Lynn’s appreciation for packaging reuse stems from her childhood working in her family’s antiques business, where she saw firsthand the value of secondhand goods and sustainable practices. She brings this perspective to her role on EcoShip’s board, helping the organization grow its reach. Lynn is passionate about supporting small businesses and building brands with lasting impact.

Kayla Silverman

Kayla Silverman is an Export Representative at McMaster-Carr and has spent nearly six years building expertise in customer service, sales, and operations. Her career path has taken her through industries like retail, hospitality, and capacity management, shaping her people-first approach and passion for problem-solving. A Connecticut native, Kayla moved to Chicago from Cleveland and was inspired by the city’s resilience and commitment to sustainability. She is proud to support EcoShip’s mission of reducing waste and fostering community connections. Outside of work, Kayla enjoys pilates, running, thrifting, baking gluten- and dairy-free desserts, and spending time with her dogs.

Kara Desai

Kara Desai is a marketing leader and entrepreneur based in Bucktown, Chicago. She brings over a decade of experience leading growth and brand strategy at companies like OPENLANE, Inventables, and Grubhub, and is passionate about helping mission-driven organizations thrive. Kara began volunteering with EcoShip in 2024, joined the Associate Board in early 2025, and became an Executive Board member in June 2025. She is proud to support EcoShip’s mission of reducing waste and fostering sustainable business practices. Outside of work, Kara enjoys gardening, reading, traveling, and volunteering her time to causes that strengthen local communities.