Staff

Patrick MacKenzie

Chief Executive Officer

Patrick MacKenzie is the CEO of the Immigrant Employment Council of BC. He has made a career of public service from coast to coast, working in policy and program areas aimed at supporting many of Canada’s most vulnerable communities through economic and social development as well as international relations. Previously, Patrick spent 11 years working for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada at its national headquarters in Ottawa and its regional offices in Vancouver. Throughout his career, Patrick has worked with partners on matters affecting Indigenous and immigrant populations, including immigrant economic integration, provincial nominee programs, credential recognition and labour mobility.

Kathleen Campbell

Chief Operating Officer

Kathleen is a CPA, CA and holds an MBA with a specialty in strategic planning. Kathleen’s varied professional background includes working in a variety of industries in British Columbia, Ontario and New Brunswick. For the past fifteen years, she has held senior finance and operational roles in post-secondary institutions in British Columbia. Kathleen will oversee the administration areas EICBC and focus on operational strategic initiatives to support the exceptional work of IECBC.

Daisy Quon

Director, Labour Market Programs & Employer Engagement

Daisy holds a BA and MA. Following completion of her university studies, Daisy worked internationally, primarily in Hong Kong and Madrid. Her professional background includes senior positions in the private, not-for-profit and public sectors in the areas of strategic partnership development and corporate leadership, community investment, immigrant labour market integration and policy development. Her commitment to IEC-BC’s work is fuelled by its blend of economics and social mission, resulting in the ability to “do good and do well”. Daisy oversees programs and services ensuring systems and resources are in place to facilitate cross-organization program alignment and collaboration that support our strategic priorities.

Dimitry Morales

Senior Manager, Finance and Procurement

Dimitry’s expertise spans accounting, IT, operations, and event management for non-profits. As a Labourer-Teacher, he supported migrant workers from Mexico and the Caribbean on Ontario farms, teaching ESL English and computer skills to aid their integration into Canadian society. Additionally, he taught accounting credit courses at a private school. A strategic thinker with a holistic approach, Dimitry is dedicated to community engagement. He holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Toronto, a Bachelor of Commerce from TMU, and completed the Certified Management Accountant accelerated program, embodying his belief in lifelong learning. Dimitry is responsible for IEC-BC’s day-to-day financial management of funding contracts and ongoing organizational operations.

Rania Younes

Senior Manager, Employer Networks and National Engagement

Rania has over 17 years of progressive marketing experience and excels in areas of impact, strategic clarity, value framing, participatory research and stakeholder management. In the past decade, Rania worked with various equity-seeking organizations and co-founded a grassroots initiative that works with local community groups to articulate and bring attention to settlement challenges and opportunities, envisioning a dynamic settlement network where all newcomers are welcomed with open hearts and minds. She also co-founded a networking and mentoring platform for professionals within racialized communities getting started in their new homes and careers. Rania is responsible for strengthen the leadership team and support our programs and employer and stakeholder engagement in BC and nationally.

Kakada On

Executive Assistant to the CEO

Kakada brings over a decade of hospitality industry experience, offering high-level operational support and strategic solutions. With expertise in sports operations, corporate leadership, event sales, and conference management, Kakada excels in curating captivating experiences in Greater Vancouver. Fluent in multiple languages, Kakada forges meaningful partnerships with diverse communities. Their distinguished tenure on the Executive Board of CCIAF reflects a deep understanding of industry dynamics and forward-thinking strategies. Beyond work, Kakada passionately advocates for inclusive communities and empowers immigrants in British Columbia. As a trusted liaison to the CEO and IEC-BC, Kakada streamlines operations and drives organizational success.

Chris Anderson

Manager, ASCEND

Chris graduated from SFU, upon his graduation he conducted primary research and developed work plans used to review and analyze documentation into the history of residential schools in Canada on behalf of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and INAC. Chris also completed Mandarin-language studies at the Johns Hopkins School for Advanced International Studies in Asia and oversaw a portfolio of skills-development and income-generation projects for the Canadian Embassy in Beijing. Upon returning to Canada, Chris completed studies in project management through the UBC Sauder School of Business, obtained Project Management Professional certification and, most recently, helped to deliver asset management planning strategies in BC’s non-profit housing sector.

David Wickramaratne

Manager, FAST

David brings over 18 years of invaluable experience, including extensive time in managerial positions with one of the world’s largest INGOs, to his role as the Manager for the Immigrant Employment Council of BC’s FAST project, where he is currently filling in for Iona during her maternity leave. With a master’s in business administration from the University of West London, he infuses the organization with new perspectives, leveraging his project management expertise and a deep understanding of organizational dynamics. David thrives on challenges, consistently seeking innovative solutions to complex problems. Driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence, he is passionately committed to creating a positive and lasting impact within the sector.

Iona Santos-Fresnoza – On Mat Leave

Manager, FAST

Iona brings a wealth of experience spanning government, tourism, IT, academia, and non-profits, amassing over a decade of diverse expertise. With a strong focus on project coordination, program development, and community outreach, she adds significant value to her role. Advocating passionately for social justice, diversity, and inclusion, Iona is a catalyst for positive change. Her international exposure includes collaborations with digital agencies in Singapore and the US, driven by a vision of a world without borders, empowered by modern tools. Armed with a Journalism Major from the University of the Philippines, Iona is currently completing an Award of Achievement in Community Management at the University of British Columbia. As the lead for the FAST program, she spearheads transformative initiatives, embodying her dedication to fostering connected and inclusive communities.

Ryan Carter

Project Lead, Tech Bootcamps

Ryan has a background in project management, stakeholder relations, and over 5 years of research and data analysis experience gained in the academic, non-profit, and for-profit sectors. Ryan is passionate about personal growth and believes in the importance of open and informed dialogue. In his role as Tech Bootcamps lead, his focus is to improve labour market integration for tech-skilled newcomers and address barriers and biases in the hiring processes of tech employers. He also oversees BC JobConnect and Connections Events, focused on connecting employers and newcomers for high-skilled roles.

Sahar Sayedy

Project Lead, Engaging SMEs

Sahar has more than 7 years of experience in research, data analysis, and health promotion. She is a Fulbright Scholar and holds a Master of Science in Community Health Promotion from the University of Arkansas, a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Kabul University, a Diploma in Business Administration from Kardan Institute, and a Diploma in Public Health and Nutrition from the Indian Institute of Public Health. Sahar worked for World Health Organization (WHO) on multiple projects and capacities and engaged with project partners and stakeholders, including the UNICEF, Nutrition Cluster, Action Against Hunger, USAID, and Global Affairs of Canada.

Daniel Chen

Specialist, Learning and Inclusive Workplaces

Daniel has extensive experience in learning administration, management, and design. As a certified Master Trainer, Daniel has facilitated workshops across North America and the UK. He holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of British Columbia and is a life-long learner advocate. He leads the development and implementation of strategic learning programs and resources to support employers in creating inclusive workplaces and in recruiting, hiring, and retaining diverse workforces.

Vania Barber

Communications and Partnerships Specialist, Engaging SMEs

Vania is a seasoned Communications and Branding professional with 16 years of progressive experience in Financial Services. She completed a Bachelor of Arts in Communications, Advertising and Digital Marketing at University Anahuac in Mexico and received an MBA in Digital Marketing & Transformation from the University Rey Juan Carlos in Spain. Born and raised in Mexico City, Vania has had the opportunity to travel around the globe and meet people from various cultures. She strongly believes in the importance of multicultural talent empowerment and the powerful contributions newcomers can bring to the Canadian economy.

Anshul Modi

Project Coordinator, BC JobConnect and MentorConnect

Anshul has over 8 years of project management and entrepreneurial experience across multiple sectors. After graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Mass Media, he managed projects from start to finish while completing his Master’s degree in Commerce with a specialization in Management. He has also earned a diploma in Event and Tour Management and has managed multiple events and international tours. Having been a trustee of a charity for the past decade, Anshul has organized numerous fundraising campaigns in India and has volunteered with Teach for India. He is also a student pilot and has trained on small fixed-wing aircraft.

Farizan Razie

Project Coordinator

Farizan brings 5+ years of extensive global experience to this position.  He’s previously been a consultant to social entrepreneurs in Ecuador, an ambassador for an environmental agency in Indonesia, and a caseworker for immigrants & refugees in Vancouver. He was vital to incubating “PowerHack”, a hackathon event that connects employers to skilled immigrant talents in the Information & Technology sector, into IEC-BC. He is passionate about the intersection between capitalism and social justice, hence his passion to connect employers to skilled immigrant talent so that they fully contribute to our society and economy.

Narissa MacLeod

Coordinator, ASCEND

Narissa completed a BA degree double majoring in political studies and sociology, and double minoring in criminology and women’s studies at Bishop’s University. Additionally, she completed a MA degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages at the University of Sunderland. She lived, worked and studied abroad for 10 years in South Korea and Australia and recently returned to Canada. She is an experienced project coordinator, instructional designer, instructor and training developer, skilled in curriculum development, e-learning, virtual reality, gamification, training and facilitation. She is an innovative professional who believes strongly in helping newcomers to Canada achieve their dreams.

Noha Hamed

Program Administrator, ASCEND

Noha holds an MBA from the Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport and a BCom from Alexandria University. Noha is a trained web designer and developer with a passion for technology. She has volunteered in the past as a web developer on a learning platform for the TechWomen program from ISS of BC. Before that, she worked in administration and research for more than 10 years. Her previous experience includes researching and developing a labour market analysis for the city of Alexandria as well as managing the development of a website to promote foreign investment in Alexandria.

Peiman Sadeghi

Coordinator, Finance

Peiman holds a Ph.D. in Accounting from Istanbul University and has served as an Auditor for the Ministry of Finance in Iran. With a background as a faculty member at Azad University and an independent consultant, he offers invaluable expertise in bookkeeping and accounting services to various organizations. In his current role, Peiman plays a vital part in ensuring the organization’s financial sustainability and growth. His extensive knowledge in financial management makes him an invaluable asset, contributing significantly to the organization’s success.

Stefanus Kurniawan

Special Project Coordinator

Stefanus is an experienced professional in business operations with a background in start-ups and in the private sector. He is passionate about growth and effective optimization. Having worked internationally in China and Indonesia for more than 10 years, he has honed essential skills in problem-solving, collaboration, and agility while maintaining a consistent focus on big picture perspective. Stefanus is driven by his commitment to excellence and as such he aims to empower businesses to thrive in ever-changing markets by embracing innovation and adaptability.

Jabin Itagi

Program Administrator

Jabin brings over eight years of experience in software engineering and IT recruitment. She holds a Master’s degree in Computer Applications that has propelled her into diverse roles as both a Software Engineer and Recruiter. Beyond her professional commitments, Jabin passionately volunteers her time for teaching as part of a Corporate Social Responsibility program, reflecting her deep commitment to community engagement. In her free time, Jabin avidly reads, staying updated on trends. She plays a key role in our team, supporting the MentorConnect program’s scaling efforts by managing registrations and facilitating matching.

Maia Fortin Xu

Administrative Assistant

Maia is a health science graduate with an Honours bachelor’s degree from the University of Ottawa. She has a passion for global learning and cultural exchange. Having pursued her education across borders, she acquired international experience from her studies in the UK and Spain. She has worked in a dental clinic where she provided support to a team of 8 and client service to patients. She also holds the Silver Level of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, showcasing dedication to volunteer work and community service. Maia is fluent in both English and French and is currently learning Mandarin.

Samuel Dumesh

Data Analyst

Samuel Dumesh is a Data Analyst at IEC-BC, bringing a professional blend of expertise in data architecture, analysis, and projections. Bringing experience from non-profits, large banks, and IT consulting organizations, he specializes in turning complex, disparate data into insights and roadmaps. Samuel is also a dedicated volunteer, actively participating in blood drives, immigration cultural centers, and a variety of other community institutions from cookouts to clean-ups. He holds a Bachelor of International Economics from UBC and supports all initiatives throughout IEC-BC. As IEC-BC’s Data Analyst, he is committed to providing data-driven solutions to Immigration programs and roadblocks throughout Canada.

 

Divya Hariharan

Program Manager, Provincial Initiatives

With a Master’s Degree in Gender Studies from the London School of Economics, Divya is a social impact and international development specialist with over 12 years of experience working on a diverse range of social and economic empowerment initiatives. Divya’s focal point has been steering large-scale poverty alleviation projects in India. Before joining IEC-BC, Divya worked for a boutique consulting firm in Vancouver, which provided technical and strategic assistance to international donors, and multilateral and bilateral organisations. Consequently, she has had the opportunity to interface and engage with large funders such as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, The Barack Obama Foundation, and the World Bank among others. She manages the Provincial Initiatives project within IEC-BC.

Hala Helmy

Stakeholder Relations Manager

Hala holds a BA in Communications in addition to certifications from international universities and organizations. She has over 20 years of global experience, having lived in Europe, Africa and North America. Her expertise encompasses project management, stakeholder/community engagement, marketing, strategic leadership and communications, career development, and skills analysis and assessment. She has worked in both the corporate and non-profit sectors, establishing and fostering key relationships with stakeholders.
Hala is responsible for overseeing stakeholder engagement and initiatives across the organization.

Solenn Le Divennah

Bilingual Coordinator, Project Engagement

With a French Master’s degree in social innovation and social economy management, Solenn has developed project management skills among associations and communities on social, cultural, and environmental projects, including a programme of concrete actions towards employment, in particular youth employment, support for entrepreneurship and innovation for the inclusion of the most vulnerable.

She had the opportunity to collaborate on the creation and improvement of several online learning platforms, their accessibility, and the translation of their materials. She supports the smooth operation of the ASCEND program, with her key focus being the development and consolidation of the francophone partners’ network.

Justine Clayton

Employer Outreach Lead, Employer and Stakeholder Engagement

As an Employer Engagement Lead at IEC-BC, Justine brings a dynamic blend of expertise in recruitment and stakeholder relations. With a proven track record of fostering impactful employer relationships, she excels in aligning organizational needs with IEC-BC’s programs. With a keen interest in project management, Justine efficiently navigates complex initiatives, ensuring seamless execution and delivering tangible data-driven results. She is passionate about cultivating meaningful employer relationships, employing innovative solutions and project management principles to drive success at the intersection of immigration and employer engagement.

 

Ben Marsh

Data Analyst

Ben has over a decade of experience working in the not-for-profit sector, primarily focusing on housing, mental health, and education. As a Data Analyst at IEC-BC, he combines his passion for building community and social justice with his love for math and data to improve the efficacy of IEC-BC initiatives, support data-informed decision making, and look for ways to leverage new technologies. Ben enjoys working collaboratively to come up with creative solutions to complex problems. He holds a Bachelors in Sociology with a focus on Social Stratification and Inequality, a Diploma in Data Science, and a Certification in Project Management.

 

Maryam Gharib

Learning Specialist

Maryam Gharib, with a background in Biology, taught at Tehran University of Medical Science and various institutes before earning a Master of Education in Educational Technology and Learning Design from Simon Fraser University. With 5+ years crafting adult learning content, she’s skilled in instructional methodologies and e-learning design. Her research in Ed-Tech focuses on LMSs, Web 2.0/3.0 tools, and educational game injustices, showcased at UBC’s Inclusive Makerspace Conference. Maryam excels in collaborations with stakeholder and SMEs, enabling smooth instructional design processes and successful workshop implementations. Dedicated to meaningful, ongoing, and sustainable learning, Maryam aims to drive impactful educational change.