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President and Chief Executive Officer
Dr. Sally Zhao obtained her Ph.D. in ESL (English as a Second Language) Testing and Assessment and an MA in Language and Communication from Cardiff University, UK, an M.Ed. in Teaching English for Specific Purposes from University of Exeter, U.K., and a BA in English Language and Literature from Lanzhou University, China. Sally has experience in teaching ESL, English Language and Communication, LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada), and ELT (Enhanced Language Training) courses. Sally started her career at TIES in 2005. Since then, she has been in different roles within the organization as ESL volunteer tutor, LINC instructor, ELT instructor, LINC Manager and Executive Director Designate. On November 1, 2014, Sally became the Executive Director of TIES, a title that recently changed to President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
Chief Financial Officer
Wei has worked with TIES since 2015, including previous roles as Finance Manager, and Manager of Finance & Operations. He obtained his Bachelor's degree in Business Administration in China. In 2002, he came to Canada as an international student and obtained his Master of Arts in Economics at the University of Ottawa in 2004. Before joining the Society, Wei had worked in financial reporting, auditing and tax for over 10 years. He also holds Chartered Professional Accountant and Certified General Accountant designations. As a first-generation immigrant, he received a great amount of community and government assistance after his family became immigrants, and as such, Wei’s goal is to give back to the community and the country that first helped him succeed. He is grateful and pleased to work for TIES, an organization that serves communities and helps newcomers.
Chief Program Officer
Suman Khanal's career is a compelling testament to his commitment to community economic development and aiding immigrants and low-income groups. His academic achievements, including a Master's in International Community Economic Development from Southern New Hampshire University, an MBA from Lincoln University, California, and a post-graduate diploma from St. Francis Xavier University, Nova Scotia, have significantly influenced his impactful initiatives. As the CEO of the National Federation of Community Credit Unions in Nepal for over seven years, Suman played a key role in enhancing the socio-economic conditions of rural areas. In North America, he furthered this impact as the Financial Literacy Program Director at America’s Credit Union Museum, focusing on educating middle school students in financial literacy, and worked in various non-profits to aid immigrant integration in the U.S. over five years. Globally recognized for his consultancy in community economic development, Suman has offered his expertise in African, Asian, and North American countries. He has been a Certified Development Educator with the Association of Asian Confederation of Credit Unions since 2003. Joining TIES in 2013, Suman advanced to the position of Director by 2018 and became Chief Programs Officer in 2022. In this role, he oversees programs dedicated to the smooth settlement and integration of newcomers and aims to uplift the socio-economic status of everyone in Canada. His efforts are driven by a mission to empower marginalized communities, demonstrating his unwavering dedication to creating sustainable, positive societal change.
Financial Controller
Wei came to Canada in 2005, and received her Bachelor of Accounting degree (with distinction) from the University of New Brunswick. She has held CPA, CGA designation since September 2011. With over 13 years of accounting experience, Wei ensures the accuracy, reliability and integrity of TIES’s financial information through maintenance of effective controls and timely collecting, processing, analyzing and reporting of operational and financial data. In September 2021, she joined TIES as the Financial Controller.
Director, Research & Immigrant Wellbeing
Katerina was born in the Czech Republic and came to Vancouver in 2011. In 2017, she moved to Calgary and joined TIES as a Drop-In ESL volunteer. Since then, she held multiple roles, including Supervisor, Research & Program Development. She holds an M.A. in Media, Peace and Conflict Studies from UN-mandated University for Peace. Katerina has previously worked for governmental bodies in the international relations field and in the corporate sector as an employee engagement consultant. She is passionate about helping newcomers settle and succeed in their new home country.
Senior Manager, HR & Office Operations
Eva Su was born in Taiwan. She obtained her degrees from San Francisco State University, a Bachelor of Arts in Speech Communication and Master of Arts in English (TESOL). Eva also taught in a pre-academic program in San Francisco State University for one year and a junior college in Taiwan for four years before moving to Canada in 2004. Eva joined The Immigrant Education Society (TIES) in January 2005 as a teacher for the ELT Program and later became the manager of the Drop-In ESL and Volunteer Programs from August 2005 to March 2011. Currently, Eva holds the position of Manager of Human Resources and Office Operations.
Senior Manager, LINC Program
Jana Ciobanu has over ten years' experience at TIES, during which time she has filled a diverse number of roles, including volunteer, English language instructor, and PBLA Lead. Jana has taught all CLB levels and demonstrates a clear understanding of the CLB framework and its application in classroom planning. In 2015 she completed the PBLA Foundation Course and became a Lead Teacher. As a PBLA lead, Jana has provided PBLA training to our instructors and helped implement PBLA at TIES. With her ESL/LINC teaching background, Jana has had the opportunity to instruct a wide variety of students from various backgrounds. She has taught ESL with English Programs for Internationals in the USA and Translation and Interpretation at the Free International University of Moldova. She has also worked in program management with international organizations. Aside from her rich work experience, Jana also has a solid educational background. She graduated from the Educational Department at the University of Calgary and acquired a Master’s Degree in TESL. Jana also studied Adult Education at the University of South Carolina and received a Bachelor of Arts in English and French at Alecu Russo University in Moldova. Jana always looks forward to working with our clients and hopes to help them call Canada home.
Manager, Drop-in ESL & Volunteer Programs
Irina has been with TIES since 2013, and has fulfilled different roles in the LINC and Drop-In ESL programs including: LINC Program Supervisor, LINC Program Instructor, LINC Program Coordinator, Volunteer Program Coordinator, Calgary Learns Programs Coordinator and Drop-in ESL Program Coordinator. Besides supervisory experience, Irina has vast experience teaching English at the primary, secondary, and university levels and has successfully completed SIT TESOL and CCLB PBLA certificate courses. Irina holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and French Linguistics, a Master’s Degree in English Linguistics/International Studies from Moldova State University and acquired an A.E.C. certificate (Program Scholar) at the Centre for Continuing Education at Vanier College in Montreal. Currently, Irina holds the position of Manager, Drop-in ESL and Volunteer Programs and is delighted to provide support to clients and volunteers at TIES.
Manager, Computer & Accounting Programs
After earning his Bachelor Degree in Sciences in Senegal, Racine pursued and graduated from the Specialized in System and Software program at EPITA-France (School of Computer Sciences and Advanced Technologies). Racine started teaching computer software and applications to youth and adults, as well as in corporate settings, in Paris, before moving to Canada in 1995. Driven by his passion for IT and a profound desire to help others, Racine has more than 10 years of experience as a computer and network instructor in several educational institutions in Canada, such as I.S.I. (Institute Superior Informatique), Institute Demers, Delta College and CDI College in Montreal. Before joining the Society in February 2013 as Computer Programs Coordinator, he worked as IT System Analyst at BELL and at Guest-Tek, and IT Support Analyst at HP . He has been Manager of Computer and Accounting Programs at TIES since March 2014.
Manager, LINC Program
With over 8 years of experience at TIES, Kerry Howard has held numerous roles prior to taking on the role of LINC Program Manager including LINC Program Instructor, PBLA Lead, and LINC Program Supervisor. Through these roles, Kerry has developed a detailed understanding of all CLB levels through the courses he has taught as well as the instructors that he has coached as a PBLA Lead and supervised as a LINC Program Supervisor. Kerry has attained a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics and English Literature from Memorial University of Newfoundland as well as a Master of Arts (TESL) from the University of Birmingham. Kerry is committed to assisting TIES’ clients in their path to settlement in any way that he can.
Manager, E-Learning & Special Projects
Whitney has worked with TIES since 2016, including her previous role as Supervisor, e-LINC & Special Projects. She holds a B.A.(Hons.) in English and History from the University of Manitoba, a Diploma in New Media Production and Design from SAIT, and is currently enrolled in a Certificate in Adult Learning specializing in e-Learning at the University of Calgary. Whitney has worked across a diverse number of organizations in Winnipeg and Calgary, and possesses extensive experience in social marketing and research. She has had a lifelong desire for travel and for learning from other cultures, and is passionate in her drive to help newcomers make a successful start in Canada.
Manager, Facility & Operations
Cliff was born in Calgary, where he graduated from SAIT with a diploma in Computer Technology. His career has required him to travel the globe extensively, setting up joint ventures and constructing manufacturing plants, and with over 25 years of progressive facilities and project management experience he brings a number of unique skills to enhance security, building services and maintenance for the Society's physical assets. Cliff joined TIES in December of 2016, and currently holds the position of Facility and Operations Manager.
Manager, Settlement & Financial Literacy
Noha joined TIES in 2016, where she held various roles, including LINC Coordinator, RENW Counsellor, Settlement Counsellor, Financial Literacy Counsellor, and Team Lead. Currently, she works as the Settlement Services Manager. Having immigrated to Canada from Egypt in 2004, Noha is driven by a passion for helping others and giving back to the community. She leverages her diverse skillset, including a Bachelor of Laws degree, Crisis Intervention Training, a Settlement Services Certificate, a Leadership Certificate, and a Financial Literacy Certificate, to support newcomers in navigating their new lives in Calgary and building a strong foundation for successful lives in Canada.
Manager, Employment & Career Development Programs
Mayssoun was born and partially raised in Syria, and moved to Canada as a teenager. She joined TIES as a volunteer for Empowering Syrian Refugees (ESR) program in 2016 before she was hired as a program coordinator for the Economic and Social Integration of Syrian Refugees and Other Youth (EASSY) and later Empowering Youth through Employment (EYE program. She took on different additional projects in the Employment and Settlement Department and then became Employment and Settlement Supervisor in 2019. Mayssoun volunteers for various organizations and charities in Calgary. Mayssoun has a Business Administration Diploma from Lambton College in Ontario. Mayssoun is passionate about empowering newcomers and helping them integrate smoothly into their new home, hence her work at TIES is a channel to put that passion into action.
Marketing and Communications Manager
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Dahlia joined TIES in 2023, bringing over 15 years of diverse marketing and communications experience to the organization. Having managed various marketing initiatives for corporations, non-profits, and small businesses, she has a passion for creating and implementing strategies for website, social media, and advertising campaigns. Born in the Philippines, Dahlia moved to Canada in May 2000, followed by a decade of professional growth at CIBC in Toronto. For the past 10 years in Calgary, she has supported organizations like Boardwalk REIT and Windmill Microlending. With a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications (Journalism) from the University of the Philippines, Dahlia is a lifelong learner. She also holds certificates in Publicity and Public Relations (University of Toronto), Digital and Marketing Communications (SAIT), Design Thinking and UX Management (Interaction Design Foundation), and Google Certificate Programs. Driven by a passion for community impact, Dahlia is proud to apply her skills and experience to help advance the mission of TIES.
Media and Relationships Strategist
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Tomasia is a multi-award winning journalist with 3 decades of experience covering news in Alberta, BC and Saskatchewan. Born in Portugal, Tomasia immigrated to Canada in 1974 and has always been a strong and passionate advocate for newcomers. She is excited to be able to put her background and experience to work for TIES.
Manager, Centre for Immigrant Research
Kreisha Hilario was born in the Philippines and moved to Calgary in 2016. Since 2020, she has been actively involved in the immigrant-serving sector in different roles, developing expertise in immigration support and community development. Holding degrees in Business Management, Urban Studies, and Geographic Information Systems, Kreisha combines academic knowledge with hands-on experience to drive meaningful change. Drawing from her expertise and lived experience, Kreisha is dedicated to developing evidence-based initiatives that uplift immigrant communities, providing the resources and support needed to thrive while fostering broader community empowerment and social good.
Mental Health & Settlement Manager
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Azita was born in Iran and moved to Canada in 2008. With over 20 years of experience in leadership, counselling, and trauma-informed care, she has dedicated her career to supporting children, youth, and families—particularly those from immigrant and marginalized communities. With a background in Clinical Psychology, Azita has led programs focused on child abuse prevention, youth advocacy, and family well-being, both locally and internationally. Her collaborative work with law enforcement, government agencies, and community organizations reflects her commitment to holistic, culturally responsive services. Azita’s dedication has been recognized through multiple awards, including the Bhayana Award for leadership and innovation, the MCKILLOP Award for exemplary frontline service, and the You’re Rock! Award for youth advocacy. Drawing from her professional expertise and lived experience as an immigrant woman, Azita continues to champion inclusive, client-centred initiatives that promote safety, empowerment, and long-term well-being for the vulnerable population.
Partnerships & Public Relations Specialist
New to TIES and to Calgary, Ava is excited to be working for TIES as the Partnerships and Public Relations Specialist. Holding A BA in International Relations from Mount Allison University and an MSc in Media and Communications from The London School of Economics, Ava combines her academic expertise with her public relations and digital marketing experience to show others how important TIES' work is. Working directly with President & CEO Dr. Sally Zhao, Ava connects TIES to the community and establishes meaningful relationships to realize TIES's vision of an inclusive and pluralistic society.
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TIES is located on the traditional territories of the people of the Treaty 7 region, which includes the Blackfoot Confederacy comprising the Siksika, Piikani and Kainai First Nations, the Tsuut’ina First Nation, and the Stoney Nakoda including the Chiniki, Bearspaw and Wesley First Nations. The City of Calgary is also homeland to the historic Northwest Métis and to the Otipemisiwak Métis Government, Métis Nation Battle River Territory (Nose Hill Métis District 5 and Elbow Métis District 6).
