Board of Directors
Marlene Stennett, Treasurer, Since January 2020
I am here to ensure that financial knowledge is available for everyone. World Financial Group believes in “No Family Left Behind”. I want to help share what I have learned and make it easier for anyone coming into the country or who are trying to navigate the often confusing world of finances. By being a part of Es Canada, I can help pass this education to others.
Mahmoud AlKhatib, Community Manager, Since January 2020
As a neurosurgeon who graduated from Syria in 2003, I then continued my education receiving a certificate of Advanced Training in Neurosurgery from Jean-Monnet University, St-Etienne in France. I then worked as a resident in Centre Hospitalier de Valence.
Having now settled in Canada I would like to take the opportunity to share my perspectives and personal experience with fellow graduates who worked in the medical field and are planning to settle in Canada and practice medicine here.
CLAVER DIALLO, Community Manager, Since January 2020
Professor at Dalhousie University, Department of Industrial Engineering Halifax, Canada
UDAY VENKATADRI, Community Manager, Since January 2020
Professor at Dalhousie University, Department of Industrial Engineering Halifax, Canada
DEREK DOW, Vice-President, Since January 2020
I am a Professional Engineer (Electrical) who has been responsible for the management of engineering teams of up to approximately 100 professionals. I also have experience in the design of electrical distribution, systems and telecommunications for buildings, infrastructure, and energy sector projects.
Additionally, I am a Project Management Professional who has been responsible for the management of multi-million dollar commercial, institutional, industrial, and military buildings and infrastructure design projects.
Sakher Mrishih, President, Since January 2020
Embark on a journey with me as I share my experiences with fellow engineers navigating the path to professional success in Canada. Whether you’ve recently graduated overseas and made the move or are on the verge of relocating, my insights are tailored for you. As a proud Canadian, I’ve found joy in the sense of community in my new home. Join me in making a difference by volunteering with the “Everyone Settles Canada organization,” as we work together to support and strengthen the professional community for newcomers in Canada. Discover the keys to a successful career transition and the fulfillment of contributing to a thriving community.
Darcie Hessie, Corporate Secretary, since April 2020
I am an Industrial Engineer that graduated in 2001. Over my career, I have worked in Logistics, Project Management, Contract Management, and have held other roles within projects. I worked in Toronto for five years and Australia for two before moving back to Nova Scotia in 2008. I have done a lot of traveling around the world. I have a great appreciation for different cultures and I look forward to hopefully providing helpful advice to newcomers to Canada.
Members at Large
sAMAR kHALIL, since dECEMBER 2023
Meet Samar Khalil, a seasoned Civil Engineer with over 14 years of experience. After graduating from Damascus University in 2001, Samar honed her skills as a Structural Engineer before embarking on a new chapter in Canada as a skilled immigrant in 2017. Passionate about supporting newcomers, she served as an interpreter for three years with ALS (Access Language Services), assisting refugees in their journey. In 2021, Samar joined the Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (ISANS) as the Coordinator for the Internationally Educated Engineers and Architects (IEEs & IEAs) bridging program.
Alison Knott, since September 2020
Alison K was born and raised in Nova Scotia, calling Halifax home since 2002. Her expertise lies in entrepreneurship, digital marketing and the local commercial arts scene. Alison mentors emerging female and non-binary designers. She runs the WordPress Halifax meetup, which is ideal for anyone that uses or works with WordPress. She also runs the Creative Kick, a meetup for commercial and visual artists.
NATALY YAZJI, since september 2020
An entrepreneur, called Nova Scotia my home 25 years ago. Built two businesses and managed 4 other businesses. A proud Canadian and very excited to volunteer for ES Canada to help newcomer professionals settle in their new home.
Vatsal Sood, since January 2021
I moved to Halifax in 2012 to pursue my master’s in computer science. Since graduating in 2014, I have been working full time here as a software developer. Being an immigrant myself, I am aware of the struggles a newcomer goes through. The community here has been very helpful during my journey so far. ES Canada is just a way for me to extend my support to the newcomers and also give back to the community.
Previous members
Randy Tully, Community Manager, January 2020 – november 2020
I am a retired Halifax Regional School Board administrator. I was employed with the school board for 35 years, 20 as a teacher and 15 as a school Principal. During my time as an administrator I worked primarily in school districts with populations of high diversity. I have a good understanding of some of the difficulties families encounter when first arriving in a new country. The policies and procedures of the school board can be very confusing. My years of experience as an administrator have provided me with an opportunity to become very familiar with these documents.
As part of the ES Canada board I would like to lessen the frustration new families may feel by helping them navigate their way through the complicated education system.