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French Chit-Chat: Practice, Connect & Explore Culture
January 19 @ 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Practice French in a relaxed, friendly setting! Join us for casual conversation, culture, and connection at French Chit-Chat.
Practice French in a relaxed, friendly setting! Join us for casual conversation, culture, and connection at French Chit-Chat.
I’m Hillary Bellows (she/her), originally from the west coast of Newfoundland, where a deep connection to nature and a strong sense of community shaped my outlook on people and wellbeing. I bring a broad background in community support and mental health to my new role supporting newcomers, guided by a commitment to dignity, compassion, and inclusive, accessible care.
Throughout my career, I have supported adults experiencing addictions, complex mental health needs, and homelessness. In both front-line and leadership positions, I have focused on trauma-informed practice, advocacy, and empowering individuals through kindness and respect. My work in local non-profit and arts-based organizations has further strengthened my belief in creativity and the importance of spaces where people feel welcome and understood.
I hold a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and am passionate about holistic wellness, recognizing that belonging, community support, and meaningful connection are essential to individual and collective wellbeing. As I begin this new chapter, I am excited to bring these values into my work with newcomers and help build environments where people can feel grounded, included, and able to flourish as they make Newfoundland and Labrador their home.
Outside of work, I stay rooted through time outdoors, whether hiking, foraging, swimming, or being near the ocean. I also enjoy crocheting, crafting, settling in with a good book alongside my cat, Smithers, and sharing good food with family and friends. These simple experiences keep me balanced and connected to the place and people who continue to inspire me.
I’m David Eguiguren (he/him), the Digital Content and Creative Media Specialist at Amal Unite & Empower. I was born in Quito, Ecuador, and moved to St. John’s in 2021 to study music and piano at Memorial University. Only a year after arriving in Newfoundland, I discovered a passion for photography and videography, inspired by the province’s incredible natural beauty.
As part of the marketing department, I am in charge of creating content that helps newcomers and employers. With my background in graphic design, I’ve been able to combine all my passions: music, photography, videography, and design into my role at Amal.
As an immigrant myself, I understand the challenges of starting over in a new country. Luckily, I was fortunate to have many wonderful people who supported me through those difficult times, and now, through my work at Amal Unite & Empower, I’m able to give back by supporting others on their own paths, regardless on the stage they are in.
Outside of work, I love performing in concerts, learning new instruments, exploring Newfoundland, and I’m always looking for ways to capture and share art and be a kind human!
I’m Lara Fares (she/her)—a Palestinian who was born and raised in Qatar, now calling Newfoundland and Labrador home. As the Marketing Coordinator at Amal Unite & Empower, I use my background in social media, marketing, and event planning to build strong community connections. My role allows me to dive deeper into my commitment to diversity and inclusion through projects that truly matter. I was fortunate to start my career collaborating with DMG Events, an international exhibitions company, helping their newly established Qatar branch coordinate marketing plans for the BIG5 exhibition. Later, I had the unique opportunity to work on the FIFA 2022 World Cup—a massive project that brought together people from all around the world—where I focused on community engagement and monitoring fan sentiment. With a background in Statistics, I enjoy being strategic with messaging and crafting communication that is both impactful and accurate.
I’m fluent in Arabic and English and know a bit of French (hoping to brush up one day!). My first solo trip was to LA, where I took courses in Business Communication and American Culture at UCLA. That trip not only boosted my confidence but also sparked a love for planning trips packed with activities! I’m passionate about exploring new cultures and have visited parts of the Middle East, Europe, North America, and Southeast Asia. While it takes me a little while to feel comfortable with new people, I truly enjoy building meaningful relationships and especially bringing people together over a good meal. I love experimenting with savory recipes (don’t care for sweets!), spending time outdoors, and finding ways to connect with others.
I’m Maryna Ponomarchuk (she/her)—a Ukrainian who has embraced life in Newfoundland and Labrador. In my role as Industry Engagement Specialist, I serve as a liaison between our program participants and employers, helping people find meaningful employment and assisting employers in selecting the right candidates.
With a background in recruitment and business sales, I focus on creating job matches that benefit both sides, and every success story brings me a deep sense of fulfillment. Before joining Amal, I worked as a Settlement Officer with the Association for New Canadians and as a Recruiter with Vitaver Staffing, where I developed skills in screening resumes, preparing candidates, and promoting diversity and inclusion.
Outside of work, I have a creative side that loves hands-on projects. I’ve picked up skills in crocheting, baking, sewing, and knitting—finding joy in crafting something tangible. My hobbies evolve over time, but each one teaches me something new. I also enjoy exploring different cultures and languages; along with Ukrainian and Russian, I’m fluent in English, intermediate in Polish, elementary in German and always eager to learn more.
I’m Laura Aguirre Polo (she/her). Originally from Colombia, I’ve made my home in Newfoundland and Labrador, with Utah holding a special place in my journey, where I attended university, launched my career, and pursued graduate studies. As the Program Manager of Amal Unite & Empower, I lead a dedicated team focused on building a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming workforce in Newfoundland and Labrador. I collaborate closely with our partners, employers, and community members to help newcomers build meaningful careers and feel at home in this province.
What I love most about my role is the opportunity to contribute to a stronger, more inclusive workforce in NL. Meeting incredible people and making a positive impact on the community are the most rewarding parts of my work.
I draw on a background in Health Promotion, Education, and Public Health, as well as my own experiences as an immigrant. Moving from Colombia to North America on my own at 16, I faced the challenges of learning a new language and adapting to a new culture, this taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of community—a lesson I carry with me every day. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work on projects in anti-human trafficking, entrepreneurship, and advocating for gender equity in fields like tech and politics. I’m passionate about fostering diversity, justice, and community collaboration, especially in business and employment sectors.
Fluent in English and Spanish and with studies in Portuguese and Arabic, I bring a multicultural perspective to my work and enjoy connecting with people from diverse backgrounds.
I am Hifza Tariq (She/Her), originally from Pakistan, and I have been building a new chapter of my journey here in Newfoundland and Labrador. I moved to St. John’s in 2023 and completed a master’s degree in occupational health & safety. Currently, I work as the Logistics & Engagement Specialist at Amal Unite & Empower, where I coordinate events, manage logistics, and create opportunities for newcomers to feel welcomed and supported.
My role allows me to blend organization with creativity—bringing people together, building networks, and fostering collaboration that strengthens our communities. I am an easy-going person, which helps me connect with people from all walks of life. What I enjoy most about work is connecting with people from a variety of experiences and creating spaces where they can share, grow, and thrive.
Beyond Amal, I have been actively involved in volunteering, mentoring, and representing newcomer voices through panels, workshops, and community initiatives. These experiences continually remind me of the importance of inclusion, advocacy, and collective impact. Outside of work, I enjoy traveling, exploring new cultures, and giving back through volunteerism. Each new experience enriches my perspective and inspires me to continue building bridges between people and communities.
I’m Hanya Eid (she/her), born and raised in Egypt! In 2019, I traded the pyramids for icebergs and moved to Newfoundland and Labrador to pursue my education. My academic background is in computer science and engineering, but my journey has never followed a straight line, and that’s something I value! Along the way, I’ve built a “jack of all trades” skill set across technology, research, hospitality, community leadership, and the creative arts. This variety has made me adaptable, curious, and passionate about lifelong learning.
I’ve supported diverse communities in many ways: from IT support to restaurant management, to founding a nonprofit collective that creates inclusive spaces for marginalized and queer communities. Outside of work, you’ll usually find me at a live music show downtown, learning a new instrument, or bringing people together over a shared meal – all things that feed my love of connection, creativity, and community!
I am Burcak Aydinlik (he/him). Originally from Turkey, I grew up moving across different cities in Anatolia before settling in Istanbul for university. Three years ago, I made Newfoundland and Labrador my home to pursue a PhD in English and Communications at Memorial University. Today, I am happy to be part of Amal Unite & Empower as the Events & Administrative Specialist, where I contribute to the planning and delivery of inclusive events that foster community, belonging, and collaboration.
Before joining Amal, I worked in international offices at universities, supporting exchange and international students throughout their academic journeys. These roles highlighted the importance of equity, access, and inclusion in education, and affirmed my commitment to creating supportive environments. Earlier in my career, I also worked as a translator and interpreter, both written and oral, which strengthened my communication skills and allowed me to engage with diverse academic, diplomatic, and community settings.
I am fluent in English and Turkish and passionate about building connections across cultures. Outside of work, I enjoy creative writing and exploring Newfoundland’s natural landscapes through hiking.
I’m Iuliia Vishtaka (she/her), and I’m excited to be the Program & Operations Supervisor at Amal Unite & Empower. I’m originally from Ukraine and now proudly call Newfoundland and Labrador home. I bring extensive experience in program coordination and event management, and I’m passionate about building systems that support community connection and newcomer success.
Before joining Amal, I worked with the Canadian Ukrainian Immigrant Aid Society in Toronto, where I helped streamline services to support newcomers through the settlement process and improve their overall experience. Prior to that, I managed a variety of events and projects in Ukraine—including large-scale international conferences—which helped me develop strong organizational and leadership skills.
Community involvement is a big part of who I am. I’ve volunteered with initiatives like TechNL’s Innovation Week and Bethesda’s Conversation Café, where I supported newcomers in building connections and improving their English skills. I love bringing people together and creating spaces where collaboration and inclusion can thrive.
Hi, I’m Zihan Jin（she/her), the DEI Specialist – Youth at the Amal Youth & Family Centre. In this role, I design and deliver programs that empower racialized and newcomer youth, along with their allies, to build leadership skills and foster belonging in schools and communities across Newfoundland and Labrador.
With experience in marketing, media, and community engagement, I’ve worked with organizations such as CBC Newfoundland, Confetti Creative, and the St. John’s Short Play Festival, developing skills in outreach, facilitation, and storytelling. In 2024, I had the honor to become the Miss Asia Canada – Newfoundland , which strengthened my passion for celebrating cultural identity and amplifying diverse voices.
Outside of work, I love acting, photography, and drawing—creative outlets that inspire me to connect with youth in authentic ways, use storytelling to challenge stereotypes, and bring imagination and empathy into my DEI practice.
With over a decade of experience in sales management and customer loyalty, Stacy Johnson (She/her) brings a relationship-focused approach to her role as Community Engagement Specialist at Amal Youth and Family Centre. She is passionate about building strong connections, understanding the unique needs of newcomers, and creating opportunities that help bridge them to meaningful professional networks.
At Amal Youth and Family Centre, she supports employment-focused initiatives by drawing on her background in corporate partnerships. Previously, as Corporate Sales Manager of Sheraton Hotel Newfoundland & Delta St. John’s Hotel & Conference Centre, she built lasting client relationships and developed strategies that encouraged both growth and loyalty. Her expertise in customer care continues to guide her work in community engagement, where collaboration and personalized support remain at the heart of what she does.
Originally from Catalina, Newfoundland and Labrador, she has called St. John’s home for the past 20 years. Outside of her professional role, she is passionate about animal health and enjoys volunteering at a local soup kitchen, where she finds purpose in giving back to her community.
I’m Mohaddeseh (Mohi) Hosseini (she/her), a lifelong learner originally from Iran with a background in Engineering and Business. I’ve built my career in entrepreneurship and the tech industry, where I focused on designing solutions that streamlined processes and improved the way users engage with services. Working in fast-paced, problem-solving environments taught me to think strategically, work systematically, and use data to create solutions that truly put people first.
Moving to Canada deepened my understanding of resilience and adaptability. I experienced the challenges of starting over in a new culture and community, which is why the mission of Amal Unite & Empower resonates deeply with me: creating spaces where newcomers feel supported, empowered, and connected. As an Automation and Systems Integration Specialist, I design data-driven processes and automation projects that reduce manual work, improve reporting accuracy, and free our team to focus on what matters most: empowering newcomers, enhancing experiences for participants, and scaling our support to reach more people.
Beyond work, I’m grateful to live one of my oldest dreams; life by the ocean in Newfoundland. By day, I’m a “tech girl”; by night, a casual artist exploring calligraphy-painting. I also love discovering new cultures, connecting with diverse communities, and exploring the beauty of nature.
I’m Başak Aslanyürek (she/her), and I bring a background in both post-secondary education and newcomer support to my role at Amal Unite & Empower. Before joining the team, I worked as a Career Practitioner at the Association for New Canadians, where I supported newcomers on their employment journeys and helped them connect with meaningful career opportunities. I also taught ESL courses at ANC and delivered an Academic Writing course at Memorial University, where I supported newcomer integration through language development and academic skill-building.
Before moving to Newfoundland and Labrador, I spent about ten years teaching Academic English at the university level in Turkey. During that time, I also led student support and orientation programs, combining my teaching experience with administrative coordination to help international students feel welcomed and prepared. Throughout my career, I’ve focused on creating inclusive learning environments and building bridges between international and domestic students.
I hold a master’s degree in English Literature and am currently completing a graduate diploma in Post-Secondary International Education at Memorial University. When I’m not working, I love reading, exploring new cuisines, enjoying coffee culture, and seizing every opportunity to travel within and outside Canada.
I’m Abdul-Wahid Adam (he/him)—originally from Ghana and now a proud Newfoundlander. As an Employment Support Facilitator at Amal Unite & Empower, I use my background in public administration, client service, and community development to guide newcomers on their employment journey.
My role allows me to make a meaningful impact by helping newcomers navigate job applications, build standout resumes and cover letters, and prepare for interviews in the Canadian job market. My career began in Ghana, where I served as the Assistant Director of Administration, coordinating government programs, leading strategic planning, and implementing sustainable community-driven projects across five municipalities. This experience instilled a strong sense of collaboration and community engagement—values I now apply in my work. Later, I joined Creatros Technologies Inc. in St. John’s as a Business Development Associate, where I designed marketing strategies and built client relationships.
These experiences enhanced my communication and organizational skills, which are crucial as I help newcomers adapt to a new work environment. At the Association for New Canadians, I served as a Community Connections Assistant, facilitating social groups and partnerships to help newcomers feel at home. Fluent in English and Dagbani, I understand the challenges of adapting to a new culture, which drives my commitment to providing practical, empathetic support to newcomers. Outside of my professional role, I volunteer as the General Secretary at Alhuda Islamic Centre in St. John’s, coordinating programs that foster spiritual, educational, and social connections. I spend much of my personal time with my four boys and at soccer practice.
I’m passionate about building connections, bringing people together, and creating a supportive community.
I’m Gilbert Kofi Mensah (he/him), originally from Ghana and now proud to call Newfoundland and Labrador home. Fluent in English and Fanti/Twi, I work as an Employment Support Facilitator at Amal Unite & Empower, where I support newcomers in finding meaningful employment by teaching job search strategies, interview skills, and resources for a smooth transition into the Canadian workforce. My passion is to empower individuals to gain success and independence, building an inclusive workforce in Newfoundland and Labrador. My career has roots in academia and research—I previously taught marketing to university students in Ghana, guiding them through market dynamics.
Additionally, as a researcher and reviewer for the Journal of Political Marketing, I developed valuable insights into consumer behavior and market strategy, which now enrich my approach to employment facilitation. With a background in marketing and social enterprise, I bring both strategic and empathetic perspectives to my work. I love guiding newcomers to build a professional brand that resonates with local employers and connecting their unique strengths with job market opportunities. In my free time, you’ll likely find me reading financial literacy books, exploring Newfoundland’s scenic landscapes, or unwinding with a podcast during a cozy sunset.
I’m Kateryna Mykhalchuk (she/her), and I bring over two years of experience in the settlement sector to my role at Amal Unite & Empower. I’ve had the privilege of working closely with individuals and families to assess their needs, connect them with resources, and support them through life’s transitions. I hold a master’s degree in clinical psychology and recently completed training in Digital Office Administration at Keyin College—tools that help me blend empathy and organization to ensure newcomers feel supported and valued throughout their journey.
Before joining Amal, I worked at the Association for New Canadians, where I facilitated orientation sessions, organized large-scale events, collaborated with community partners, and delivered holistic support to address financial, social, and employment-related challenges. I’m passionate about fostering genuine connections and delivering client-centered services that help newcomers feel seen and empowered every step of the way.
In my free time, I love reading, exploring new ideas, and learning through stories. I also enjoy attending community events and hiking—it’s my way of connecting with others and recharging in nature.
I’m Hayley McLellan (she/her). Originally from New Brunswick, I now call Newfoundland home, where I completed a master’s in Sociology and am pursuing a PhD focusing on criminology and social inequality. I currently serve as the Anti-Racism Project Coordinator, where I work with a team to develop anti-racism programs for youth, implement diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) training for employers, and foster inclusive community initiatives across Newfoundland and Labrador. I began my journey at Amal as a DEI student, gaining hands-on experience creating toolkits and resources to support fair workplace practices, and transitioned into my current leadership role.
Living in Japan and exploring communities around the world taught me firsthand how culture shapes experience, insights that inform my approach to challenging systemic racism, promoting inclusion, and advancing equity and social justice. I am passionate about addressing systemic inequalities, empowering marginalized communities, and translating academic research into meaningful social impact.
I love helping and empowering others, whether through mentoring, teaching, or designing programs that promote growth and inclusion, and I find it deeply rewarding to see people gain confidence, develop skills, and overcome barriers. I speak English and conversational French (still practicing!), which helps me connect with diverse communities. Outside of work, I love cozying up with a good book, crocheting, and exploring the natural beauty of Newfoundland.
Bonjour ! Hello! I’m Maude Parent (She/Her), a proud Francophone born and raised in the beautiful province of Québec. Growing up in Abitibi-Témiscamingue, a charming rural region close to the northern Ontario border, I learned to cherish the sense of community and connection that small towns offer. While Abitibi-Témiscamingue will always be my first home, I’m also incredibly proud to call Newfoundland my chosen home since 2018. Newfoundland and Labrador has embraced me with its blend of familiar boreal forests and breathtaking ocean landscapes, and I’m honored to now be a Francophone-Newfoundlander. My career began in Quebec as a special care counsellor, where I spent six rewarding years supporting individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities. I worked alongside them on essential life skills, community involvement, employment coach and advocacy for their rights.
When I moved to Newfoundland and Labrador in 2018, I embarked on a new chapter, applying my skills to support individuals facing addiction, mental health challenges, and homelessness. I believe deeply in approaching each person with an open mind and a non-judgmental attitude, which has allowed me to build powerful and trusting relationships with my clients and participants over the years. In early 2024, a new opportunity arose with Amal Unite & Empower, where I joined the team as an Employment Support Facilitator. In that role, I gained valuable insights into the well-being of our participants and the vital role that mental health and belonging play in the newcomer experience.
In April 2025, I transitioned into a new position as Wellness Coordinator for our wellness initiative, Bloom. Drawing on years of experience supporting vulnerable populations and my deep passion for community building, I am excited to lead Bloom by helping participants connect with their community, explore holistic wellness opportunities, and celebrate culture and belonging. Outside of work, you’ll often find me exploring Newfoundland’s trails with my dog, Tundra, foraging the forest floor for wild plants and mushrooms. I’m passionate about gardening, especially growing medicinal herbs, which I transform into nourishing meals and natural remedies.
With a certificate as a Naturotherapist, I am continually inspired by the healing power of nature for both the soul and the mind, and I’m excited to be working toward becoming a registered Horticultural Therapist with the Canadian Horticultural Therapy Association. When I’m not outside connecting with the land, you’ll find me at home, in my rocking chair with my cat, Josh, knitting and sipping on a warm cup of medicinal tea. Au plaisir de vous rencontrer ! I look forward to meeting you!