Our Team

Shannon, an educator and global explorer, advocates for youth and diverse cultures. CBFY Board member, manages The ARK Foundation. Also involved in other boards, including Create Change Canada. Holds a B.Ed. from the University of Calgary and International Development certification from UBC. Enjoys singing with Calgary vocal group REVV52.

Kristi Sebalj, Vice-Chair at the Alberta Utilities Commission, adjudicates utility cases and leads in federal, provincial, and territorial energy regulation. Previously, at the Ontario Energy Board, she served as Senior Legal Counsel and Registrar, overseeing adjudicative processes and implementing a consumer engagement program. As a former Partner at a major Canadian law firm, Kristi handled diverse corporate and regulatory energy matters. With an LLB and marine environmental law certificate from Dalhousie University, and BSc and MSc from McMaster University, she is called to the bar in Alberta, Ontario, and Nova Scotia.

Kate, HR Portfolio Manager at BMO Financial Group in Calgary, collaborates with leadership to implement people-focused strategies for over 10,000 employees. With a background in project management, HR, and executive search, she emphasizes fostering learning, creating supportive environments, and building diverse leadership teams. Kate holds an MBA and Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Calgary. She has been actively involved with the Calgary Bridge Foundation for Youth since 2017, previously serving as Chair of the board and committees focused on HR and Nominations.

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Jatin Shory, leading Shory Law LLP's Immigration department, excels in litigation, corporate immigration, and legal education. His adept handling of complex cases has marked him as a notable lawyer, guiding businesses through Canadian immigration law intricacies. As an adjunct instructor at Queen’s University, he teaches Immigration and Citizenship Law, and through pro-bono legal clinics, he offers free immigration advice to vulnerable populations. Additionally, as a Table Officer at CBA's Immigration Section, Jatin contributes to shaping the national conversation on immigration in Canada and has testified at the Canadian House of Commons on evolving programs and issues.

Duncan MacRae is a Senior Director with Alvarez & Marsal Canada in their corporate restructuring practice. He has over ten years of accounting and financial experience, with a focus on turnaround, restructuring and insolvency mandates. In these roles, he has provided strategic advice to debtor companies, secured lenders and other stakeholders in complex restructuring situations. Duncan is a Licensed Insolvency Trustee, a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA, CA) and holds a bachelor’s degree from St. Francis Xavier University.

Matt, COO and co-founder of Criterium Energy, drives strategic energy initiatives in SE Asia. Canada ASEAN Business Council Energy Advisor. Geophysics BSc, MBA from Haskayne. Passionate about travel and cultural exploration.

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Michael Morcom, Managing Partner in Calgary, leads in corporate finance and mid-market transactions. With a focus on secured transactions and real estate, he brings a personable and collaborative approach to achieve client goals. Extensive experience in various industries, including real estate development, hotel finance, construction, automotive finance, and professional sports financings. Co-leads the Firm’s Financial Services Industry Group, contributing to banking industry development. Formerly involved in litigation at Miller Thomson, appearing in all levels of court in Alberta early in his career.

Frank is the CEO of the Calgary Bridge Foundation for Youth (CBFY), where he leads initiatives to support immigrant and refugee children, youth, and families. He excels at fostering collaboration across sectors like justice, healthcare, and social services. He's known for his innovative thinking in social justice, having launched several multi-million-dollar programs. Previously, he directed the Safe Communities Opportunity and Resource Centre (SORCe), coordinating experts from 14 agencies and architecting the Cross Roads Centre for integrated social services. With 25 years at the Calgary Police Service, Frank diverted young people from the justice system due to trauma, addiction, homelessness, and mental illness. He holds a University of Calgary Bachelor of Arts degree, various leadership certificates, and actively volunteers in the community.

Lorraine Kinsman, CBFY's Director of Programs since July 2022, boasts a distinguished 33-year career with The Calgary Board of Education (CBE) as a principal and teacher. Recognized as one of Canada’s Outstanding Principals in 2014, she led the opening of two notable Calgary schools, Cranston School in 2010 and Eric Harvie School in 2016. A Sessional Instructor at St. Mary’s University, Lorraine co-authored the ‘Math Makes Sense’ series for grades 3/4/5. Past roles include chairing The Calgary Young Writers’ Conference, The ATA Women in Leadership Committee Local 38, and the Elementary Principals’ Association.

A passionate advocate of Peace Education and Literacy Learning, Lorraine's conference presentations, including U-Lead 2022 and Pathways to Prosperity 2023, emphasize these themes. Integrating her passions into her work at CBFY, she supports newcomer and refugee youth. Originally from Nova Scotia, Lorraine migrated to Alberta in 1978 with her husband, Michael.

Cristina Balamban brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her role as a Chartered Professional in Human Resources in Alberta. Hailing from the Philippines, Cristina holds a bachelor's degree in psychology and a Master’s degree in Human Resources Management. Prior to immigrating to Canada, Cristina distinguished herself as a Sales and Marketing professional for over a decade.

Her journey in Canada began with work at CIWA, Theatre Calgary, and the Distress Centre.

Since 2018, Cristina has served as the Human Resources and Volunteer Resources Manager at CBFY, where she has made significant contributions to organizational growth and development. Her dedication and expertise have been instrumental in creating positive changes within the organization.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Cristina finds joy in her family life, cherishing moments with her husband, three children, and beloved furbaby, Chanel. She also enjoys hiking, singing, and reading motivational books.

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Riti immigrated to Canada in 2011, initially facing challenges that evolved into a positive experience. High school, with its emphasis on creative freedom, became a source of joy, fostering a strong sense of belonging within her friends and church community. A passion for learning led her to graduate with a Bachelor's of Education in Secondary Science.

Currently working in an environment that values helping others, safety, creativity, and people-oriented approaches, Riti finds fulfillment in assisting youth in their growth and goal achievement. Drawing from her own experiences, she strives to create safe and engaging learning environments that provide autonomy and unique experiences for youth, promoting confidence and a sense of belonging, akin to the support she received as a newcomer.

Having an immigrant background myself, it gives me a special meaning to work with an immigrant serving agency like CBFY and make a difference in the lives of newcomer youth and their families using my rich experience in the immigrant sector, my knowledge, cultural competence, and skills. In my current role as a program supervisor, I do this by contributing to the design, development, and implementation of programs that respond to the various settlement and integration related needs of newcomer youth and their families. My background in legal studies, International Relations, certificate trainings in leadership, project management, and other relevant areas, coupled with my passion to engage and work with people of diverse backgrounds, help me deliver well in the role I am playing now - and will play in the future.

As a retired School Principal with 36 years of experience, I am thrilled to have been seconded to CBFY to contribute to the development of English Language Learning after-school programs for Ukrainian Youth. This initiative targets school-age children (K-12) in both Calgary school districts. While the primary focus is on conversational English skills, the program also aims to enrich students' understanding of their new home, Canada. Beyond language acquisition, we address social/emotional issues, providing support and intervention for those dealing with anxiety and trauma. Additionally, we offer interpretive services to overcome language barriers for schools, parents, and other agencies in need. Our holistic approach ensures a comprehensive and supportive learning environment for Ukrainian youth settling into their new Canadian home.

My name is Catherine Clark or Mama C to the hundreds of youths that I have worked with over the past 9 years in the Afterschool Program. My passion is helping youth navigate through high school, providing them with homework support, opportunities to gain knowledge, and have new experiences that will help them grow in confidence for their future school and work. I have the privilege of walking alongside these youths in the NxtGen Program as they find friendships and build connections in their school community.

Bibhu has worked with CBFY since 2010, including her previous role as SWIS Worker, Senior SWIS Worker and present position as SWIS Supervisor. She has a M.A in Sociology and B A in English & Social service from the University of Nepal . She has had a lifetime wish for travel and for learning from other cultures. She is passionate in her desire to help newcomer youth and their families settle and integrate into their new life in Canada.

Fahri Duman is one of the SWIS Program Supervisors at the Calgary Bridge Foundation for Youth. He holds a Bachelor of Science and Kinesiology degree. He is a foreign-trained teacher and speaks Turkish. In his work with the Calgary Board of Education, Fahri Duman demonstrated a strong commitment to encouraging global perspectives in young people while preparing and supporting students for and through positive educational experiences. His abilities to anticipate and prepare for challenges while problem-solving with and advocating for others have enhanced his professional experiences both in Turkey and in Canada. I have worked at Crescent Heights High School to support students in developing their confidence, becoming active members of society, and fulfilling their potential.
Do not be afraid of change that is how we grow. If you don’t go after what you want, you’ll never have it. If you don’t ask, the answer is always no. If you don’t step forward you are always in the same place.

Over the past seven years at CBFY, I’ve grown from a part-time facilitator to Team Lead, developing a passion for supporting newcomer, refugee, and low-income elementary children. I’ve gained expertise in program development, strength-based leadership, and crafting social-emotional lesson plans. As Afterschool Coordinator and Team Lead, I’ve also honed skills in staff training and creating a positive work environment. My experience has sharpened my professional skills and deepened my commitment to fostering compassion, empathy, and belonging among the children we serve.

I have dedicated many years to CBFY, starting as a volunteer and progressing to roles as Settlement Worker in schools and now as a Team Lead. My academic background includes Community Development and International Relations. Drawing from my years of teaching experience, I have a deep understanding of working with youth and their families. Collaborating closely with educators, my team and I strive to assist newcomer students in settling and integrating into their school and community. My goal is to empower youth in their journey of settlement and integration into Canadian society.

Aileen Singh is a distinguished Settlement Worker and a parent educator with 13 years of invaluable experience in supporting newcomer immigrants. Her approach to settlement and education is founded on the principle that thoughtful support and deep understanding are the catalysts for unlocking the vast potential within each individual. She has a master’s in counseling psychology and firmly believes in the transformative power of support, facilitating academic success, and enabling individuals to thrive in their new environment.

My family moved to Canada in 2007. I have been working in the non profit sector in Calgary for about 15 years, more than 11 years from CBFY. I am passionate working for community and social development. I have knowledge and experience in settlement practice, resource advising, case management, and SWIS program supervision.

Monica Moosbauer, leading the Downtown area NNESST Team. My fervor lies in assisting newcomer students in adapting to a new country, leveraging their strengths, and persistently pursuing their goals.

In my current role, I organize and lead programs for youth, fostering academic and personal success by cultivating a sense of belonging and community. With international experience in Turkey, Oman, and Ukraine before settling in Canada, I am fluent in Uzbek, Russian, and Turkish. I am a strong advocate for lifelong learning, pursuing a Master's in Education and learning French. As a mother of three busy kids, I believe in the importance of investing in the future of children and youth. My career at CBFY aligns with my passion for empowering youth and contributing to their support system. If you ever need assistance in Uzbek, Russian, or Turkish, please feel free to reach out.

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Lena Sakhatsky, born in Ukraine and lived in Israel before moving to Calgary, Canada. All her career life she has been an accountant or finance sector. Being employed by different sectors in different countries. She was inspired to work here as our work is near to her heart.

Cathie has worked with CBFY since 2014, first as an Afterschool Program Tutor and progressing through roles such as Youth Worker in the Mentorship Program and Settlement Worker with Bridge Link. Currently, she is the Program Administrator in Communications. Outside of work, she loves creative pursuits like crocheting and DIY projects, and spending time with her husband and two children.

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Harsh is a Program Administrator with a robust background in business and a passion for making a difference. Armed with a degree in Business, Harsh has dedicated his career to the non-profit sector, where he has leveraged his expertise to drive impactful change. His commitment to excellence and innovation is further underscored by his achievement of two prestigious certificates from the House of Commons. Moreover, he likes to spend time with his family, listen to music and read books.

I help with CBFY's technology distribution, coordination, and management. I'm responsible for tech inventory and disposal. I am the main point of contact for CBFY's IT Tech support help, Tech 2 U.

My name is Maha and I have been a part of the CBFY family since June 2015. I first discovered CBFY while searching for a practicum placement while completing my education in Social Work. After completing my practicum, I have been able to join the ASP team to enhance my skills, knowledge and learnings. I began my experience with ASP working with the Bridge Club Elementary program, where I then transitioned into the Refugee Program, NxtGen Junior High and now to Connect Team. I can provide support if an Arabic speaker is ever needed as I can speak, read and write fluently. I can also provide support with providing tools and tips on working with immigrant and refugee children and youth, along with resources that could be beneficial to your work.

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Her passion for supporting children and youth through their journey as new immigrants reflects a commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive environment for individuals navigating the challenges of relocation. This dedication suggests a genuine interest in providing guidance, resources, and emotional support to help young immigrants adapt and thrive in their new surroundings. Her enthusiasm for this cause likely involves recognizing the unique needs and experiences of young newcomers and striving to contribute to their successful integration and well-being in their adopted communities.

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Having immigrated to Calgary from Kenya after living in the Kakuma refugee camp, I hold a Bachelor's Degree in Human Ecology with a focus on Family Social Sciences from the University of Manitoba. My journey has been marked by a commitment to working with newcomers, immigrants, and vulnerable populations, aiming to combat poverty and enhance the well-being of individuals and communities. My experience includes roles with non-profit organizations such as Manitoba Women for Women and the Mustard Seed Calgary, where I served as a Community Outreach Advocate. Currently, I find fulfillment as a Settlement Worker In School at the Calgary Bridge Foundation for Youth, engaging with and learning from youths and their families from diverse backgrounds. While supporting families in meeting their settlement needs, I also derive personal growth and learning from these interactions. The positive impact and influence of newcomer youths and their families have been instrumental in shaping my life.

I am currently working as SWIS Settlement Worker for Calgary Bridge Foundation for Youth. Our service mandate is focused on supporting newcomer students in school and helping them build social connections as they adjust to a new life in Canada. We provide information regarding the school system, access to educational resources, assistance accessing government and community benefits, and many more. We basically act as their guide to ensure that their transition is doing well in Canada.

I have dedicated the past 3 years to CBFY with a passion for guiding youth toward success in their chosen paths. With a diverse background in social services and youth advocacy, I bring extensive experience in financial management, marketing, and a Diploma in Criminal Justice. Prior to CBFY, I spent 8.5 years at Alpha House shelter and 2 years at YWCA, where I provided housing and support to vulnerable homeless women struggling with addiction. These roles have equipped me with a profound understanding of the challenges faced by marginalized populations.

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I am an experienced Afterschool Program Coordinator with over nine years at CBFY. I began my journey as a facilitator for the afterschool program, where I discovered my passion for enriching the lives of students and creating a positive learning environment. In March 2020, I stepped into the role of Program Coordinator, and I have since focused on developing engaging programs and initiatives that support youth development and community involvement. My commitment to empowering young minds and fostering teamwork drives my work and makes me proud to be part of the CBFY team.

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My name is Dalal Ayash. I am a settlement worker with CBFY. I have a bachelor degree in Arts. An ELL specialist Diploma from Mount Royal University. I have extensive experience in dealing with youth, I can provide help with Youth programs development, in school settlement programs. I am fluent in English and Arabic. love what I do at CBFY. It’s a fantastic role.

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As an immigrant myself, I joined CBFY as I want to help fellow immigrants settle and integrate well in the Calgary communities. The most beautiful part of my job is helping newcomer youth and their families, listen their stories, share my own story, tell them that they are not alone and most of us have the similar stories.

Proven advocate with 4 years at Calgary Bridge Foundation for Youth, leading Youth Advisory Council and launching leadership program. Passionate about community, active in anti-racism, mental health, and youth advocacy. Contributed to Transit Ambassadors Program and Youth Central. Collaborates with ActionDignity to bridge immigrant and Indigenous teachings. Experienced in government administration, excelling in English, administrative assistance, customer service, communication, and leadership. Committed to inclusivity and collaboration for a vibrant community.

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I am a certified teacher from Iran and have the Bridge to Teaching certificate from the University of Calgary. I have more than 20 years of experience working with students K-12. I am also a certified Farsi language interpreter, and I can speak Azeri and communicate in Turkish. During my work experience in Canada, I have worked with a culturally diverse population of students and newcomer families, so I am fully aware of their needs and concerns. I am familiar with many community resources, and I can connect families to these resources. CBFY's core values and mission to empower the newcomer youth excites me to come to work at CBFY.

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When you go to bed and still thinking about whether to change one activity to another, when you rejoice at the small achievement of your student and immediately plan the next lesson in your imagination, you realize that you love this work. I worked as a teacher in Ukraine and have possibility to work with children with CBFY. I can help with planning activities for summer camp or other after school programs. It is important to be helpful to both parents and children. That’s why I am here with CBFY.

Jacky Chui is a registered social worker with over six years of experience working with ethnic minority families and youth. He has a strong background in school social work services, with three years of experience in that field. Jacky is dedicated to providing emotional counseling, crisis management, and organizing programs for social inclusion.

I am a former clinical psychologist with extensive experience in teaching, coaching, management, and program development. I hold an M.Phil. in Clinical Psychology and an M.A. in Psychology. As an immigrant from Nepal, my journey mirrors that of many others, and I have called Calgary home for nearly two decades. My family and I have embraced Calgary as a vibrant and welcoming city for newcomers.

I am passionate about supporting smooth transitions for newcomers, particularly youth, children, and their families. Working with CBFY has been a deeply rewarding experience, allowing me to make a meaningful impact in the community. In addition to English, I am fluent in Nepali, Hindi, and Urdu.

Outside of work, I cherish time with my family and love traveling to different places, where I can connect with diverse cultures and people.

Janelle Wong is deeply passionate about immigration politics. Her academic journey is fueled by a profound interest in understanding the nuanced experiences of immigrants and the barriers they face. With a focus on contributing to organizations dedicated to immigration and human rights, she aspires to address barriers faced by immigrants and shape public policies that positively impact their lives.

I started at CBFY as an Afterschool Program Facilitator back in 2010 and was one of the first facilitators to participate in the pilot of the junior high program. After studying overseas, educating on hygiene practices for rural populations in China, and showcasing incredible individuals in developing countries who were supporting their communities’, I returned back to CBFY as an Afterschool Program Coordinator, and now a Senior Coordinator. I am excited to support youth navigate the complexities of their bicultural identity and just being a young person in today’s dynamic world. I do this with an amazing team, and together, we have built inclusive and vibrant spaces where kids can come together as a community to explore, grow, and have fun! My work at CBFY, along with my experience in crisis management, the arts, and mental health, all contribute to a vision of creating communities where people have the ability thrive and support each other.

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I am a former school teacher and have worked with youth in many roles in addition to teaching, such as coaching, leading camps and running youth outreach programs. I hold a Bachelor of Education and a Bachelor of Communication and Culture with Distinction, both from the University of Calgary. I have found supporting immigrant youth as a Settlement Worker in Schools with CBFY especially rewarding. My family immigrated to Canada from Turkey many years ago, so I understand some of the challenges that newcomer families face. I was born in Istanbul, Turkey and Turkish is my additional language. We have been happy to call Calgary home for many years and think it is a wonderful, welcoming city!

I moved to Canada 15 years ago as a skilled worker. My background is from the beautiful city, named Chandigarh, located in North India. I attained my Masters Degree in English with Linguistics and Applied Linguistics as my main field of expertise. I also completed my Bachelors Degree in Education there. I moved to the United Kingdom on work visa in 2004 and my journey to work with new immigrants started there. I worked as Bi-Lingual information Advisor helping newcomers with resources to attain language and other skills within the UK. Then I moved to Canada. I continued working with new immigrants in Calgary and now with over 15 years of experience in helping newcomers altogether, I proudly acknowledge that serving newcomers is my passion. It is a different sense of accomplishment when you serve a newcomer family and youth, and that brings back the memories of my own journey to settlement in Canada.

I arrived in Canada in June 2022 under the CUAET program with my sons. I work as a freelance Interpreter for Sandal Translation Services Ltd. I maintain impartiality and strive to interpret everything as accurately as possible. In August I volunteered at a Summer camp for Ukrainian children. I like to help people, intuitively, I know what people need - I'm naturally empathic and sensitive. And this is why I've chosen working at CBFY as a great opportunity to implement my experience and competence in action.

I arrived in Canada as an immigrant 25 years ago. I also endured many challenges and roadblocks throughout my time in Canada so I relate with the struggles that families may encounter while transitioning to a new country. I can help provide you with information regarding education systems. I have resources for afterschool programs, as well as the ability to connect your children to various tutoring programs. We host information sessions that focus on different topics for children and adolescents that occur monthly or quarterly. If you require assistance with opening an account in PowerSchool or contacting the school regarding your children I can act as your main point of contact.

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My immigration journey begins in Canada 13 years ago and my story is not at all different from other Newcomers. I was born and brought up in North India, a vibrant agricultural land called, Punjab. I came to Canada with an experience in the education field and research work on “Education in Human Values” and “Altruism.” I believe in challenging work, perseverance, and life-long learning, as Brian Tracy says, “Continuous learning is the minimum requirement for success in any field.” The process of transition and integration as an immigrant was not easy. But as I became familiar with the people of the country, system, and culture; hardships began to ease, and I started to settle into my new home country without even realizing it.

Lena Sakhatsky, born in Ukraine and lived in Israel before moving to Calgary, Canada. All her career life she has been an accountant or finance sector. Being employed by different sectors in different countries. She was inspired to work here as our work is near to her heart.

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Nadia, originally from Ukraine, embarked on a journey of adventure and self-discovery at 18. After extensive travel, she chose to live in Canada, navigating the challenges of adapting to a new country. Grateful for the support she received, Nadia now helps newcomers, particularly Ukrainians affected by the war.

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With a passion for community building and over 15 years of experience in settlement services, I am dedicated to helping newcomers integrate successfully into their new communities. As a Settlement Worker at CBFY, I provide comprehensive support and guidance to individuals and families, assisting them with housing, employment, education, and access to community resources.

In my role, I take pride in facilitating smooth transitions for newcomers, helping them overcome challenges and achieve their goals. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and connecting with my community which help me stay grounded and connected to the diverse communities I serve.

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My background in International Relations gives me the ability to understand the process of families moving to a new country like Canada. Connecting youth and families to the community is my passion and keeps me going every day. I can advocate for youth in the schools and motivate them to become successful. I have 14 years of experience as a Settlement Worker in Schools. I speak Spanish. Currently, I am a resident in two CBE high schools.

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Rahel Gebrehiwot: dedicated Settlement Worker in School BA in Management, MA in Development Studies, fluent in English and Amharic. Excels in fostering integration for newcomer families, advocating for students, and maintaining confidential records. With over six years of experience, my passion lies in bridging cultural gaps and organizing workshops for a positive transition into Canadian society. Adept in needs assessment, community engagement, and crisis intervention. Dedicated to empowering families through effective communication and support.

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Samiha Fizal, an immigrant from India, mom of two children, speaks Malayalam, Hindi, and English languages. In-School Settlement (SWIS) worker with the Calgary Bridge Foundation for Youth for the past 10 years. Passionate about working with newcomer youth and families; love being involved in their transition, education, and settlement life and journey in Canada. An enthusiastic team player and a lifelong learner. Enjoys working collaboratively with youth community partners. Embraces diversity, mental health, spirituality, enjoys interacting with people from different parts of the world and making a positive difference in other's lives. Important values are gratitude and inclusiveness.

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Sevim is an Afterschool Program Coordinator who has a background in sociology. She has a passion for weaving learning experiences that extend beyond the classroom. With a background as a preschool educator, Sevim brings a rich understanding of early childhood development to her role. Fluent in English, French, and Turkish, she fosters inclusive, multicultural learning environments, making her a versatile and dedicated leader in education.

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Originally from Vancouver Island, I arrived in Calgary eager to assist in the settlement of newcomer families. Holding a bachelor’s degree with a double major in Political Science and Sociology, I am informed by my education and varied experience working with youth. Ultimately though, it is the stories that drive my passion. Working with youth and their families at CBFY allows me to interact with newcomers everyday, listening to and learning from diverse lived experiences. In everything I do, I try to put myself in other peoples’ shoes. Empathy for the immigrant experience and an understanding that where we are born and who we are born to impacts so much of what we are exposed to, and therefore our perspective. If there is one thing that I have learned, it is that it only takes one person, one moment to change your life forever, to change your perspective. It just takes one person to have an impact. In everything that you do, strive to be that person.

Combining technical background with the passion for an Individual strength & meaningful purpose, I see the “big picture” in detail and thrive in a diverse & inclusive environment.

Svitlana, originally from Ukraine, embarked on a journey through teaching, customs, and aiding newcomers in Bulgaria and Spain. Her path led her to Canada, where as a passionate SWIS worker, she guides students to success. With diverse roles and a heart for connections, she enriches lives.

Tijana's journey with CBFY began in 2016 when she enrolled in the Mentorship program as a newcomer from Serbia. The program facilitated her transition to Canadian life and provided essential information. After obtaining a Psychology degree from the University of Calgary, Tijana returned to CBFY to contribute to the community. She volunteered for several years, became an ASP facilitator in 2021, and quickly moved to a senior facilitator role. Currently, she serves as an ASP Coordinator with Bridge Club, focusing on social-emotional learning, generosity, and cultural diversity for the youngest clients. Tijana finds excitement in collaborating with a fantastic team and enjoying program activities with students. She is passionate about expanding newcomers' knowledge of available services, sharing personal experiences, and offering insights on helping children acclimate and thrive in a new environment. Tijana believes in creating a safe and positive space for immigrant and refugee youth, dr

Born and raised in Eritrea, I hold a bachelor's degree in Educational Psychology from the Eritrea Institute of Technology. Following graduation, I accumulated over a decade of diverse professional experience in Eritrea, Sudan, and Egypt, where I served as a school counselor, general counselor, teacher, psycho-social worker, and interpreter. In April 2014, seeking asylum, I left Eritrea and later worked as a school teacher in Sudan before residing as a refugee in Egypt from December 2015. During my six-year stay in Egypt, I worked as a psycho-social worker and interpreter at St. Andrew Refugee Services (StARS) and as an interpreter at the International Organization for Migration (IOM). In March 2022, I arrived in Canada, eager to leverage my extensive background and skills to contribute positively to the SWIS Settlement Worker position.

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I have been working with CBFY as settlement worker for over 12 years. My passion and dedication in helping newcomer kids and families have been the driving force for me to work tirelessly with fulfilled satisfaction Settlement services play a crucial role in easing the transition for newcomers, I always try to making a positive impact on the lives of those I serve. Hope my care and support can contribute significantly to the success and well-being of kids and families. I feel grateful for the positive collaboration and support from team, various agencies, and communities. And recognize the importance of building strong connections within my professional network in the past years. I grow with CBFY with learning and gaining many experience and skills either personal and professional development. Overall I am very happy to work this role.

For over 13 years, my passion has been helping people navigate challenging experiences and reclaim their lives. I've provided mental health support to diverse populations—children, adolescents, adults, parents, and families. My motivation stems not only from the intrinsic interest and proficiency in my work but also from the belief that improving one person's well-being contributes to a better world for my daughter.

With a master's degree in psychology from Ukraine and certifications for working with various client categories, I've honed my skills through one-on-one sessions, group work, and large audience engagements, both in-person and virtually. Collaborative and supportive environments fuel my commitment to delivering quality experiences.

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As an immigrant who underwent diverse refugee experiences in Sudanese refugee camps and lived as an urban refugee in Sudan for over 6 years, I bring a unique perspective to my work. With a 4-year tenure at UNHCR Sudan, serving as both an interpreter and data profiler for minor refugees from Eritrea, I gained insights into the challenges refugees face in their country of asylum. Additionally, I volunteered with CCIS for over 7 months upon arriving in Canada. Holding a Bachelor's degree in Management from the University of Asmara, I possess a deep understanding of the psychology of refugees and immigrants, enabling me to provide meaningful support. Having personally experienced the importance of guidance in settling in a new country, I find excitement in my role at CBFY. Leveraging my extensive experience both in Canada and abroad, I aim to assist newcomers by offering education, guidance, empowerment, advocacy, and more.

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