Sarah Anthony

“Hello all! My name is Sarah and I started my career as a graduate of Library and Information Technology. Over several years and 6 countries, and 3 continents, I slowly morphed from records manager to Administrator to EFL teacher to Podcaster and finally to bookkeeper in Victoria. When I am not hunched over a calculator, you can find me on my farm chatting with my chickens and when I can, salmon fishing or canoeing. I’m so excited to be part of Connections Place and to work in such an amazing environment.”

Rylan Wheeler

While completing a Bachelor of Commerce degree, Rylan has been involved in various volunteer initiatives – both independently and collaboratively – surrounding small-business development and education access. In developing a passion for helping others, both locally and internationally, Rylan uses his skill sets to make a difference and create sustainable long-term impacts for those who need it the most. On days off, you can find Rylan with friends hiking, playing his guitar, or spending his evenings at the water. After coming across Connections Place, and learning more about the positive impact that the clubhouse has within the community, Rylan knew this is exactly where he needed to be!

Ken Motala

“Hi I’m Ken! I am a Red Seal Electrician that made the jump over to the Community Services Field after realizing how much I enjoy supporting others. It was only after joining this community that I realized, I learn more from others than they ever could from me. Mental Wellness is important to me, as I am always on that journey within myself! I enjoy rock climbing, anime and expressing my creativity through clothing. I am also proudly a part of the 2SLBTQ+ Community.”

Curtis Walz

“Hi, I’m Curtis! I am so excited to be joining the Clubhouse and getting to know you all. I moved to Victoria in 2019 to pursue my education, which I completed in December. There are so many reasons I’m happy to call Victoria home, including the incredible outdoor activities and laid back lifestyle. You may find me at the beach, exploring the forests, or visiting with friends. Come say hi!”

Morgan Gaudet

“Hi I’m Morgan! I have always had a passion for helping people live fulfilling lives and achieve their goals, and I strive to make a difference in the community. After high-school, I went on to get my certificate in Human Services, and have since been putting my knowledge and skills into practice by working in the community support field. I love the welcoming and collaborative environment here at Connections Place and I’m so excited to be a part of  the team!”

Paige Wallace

Originally hailing from California, Paige moved to BC in 2017 to complete her Bachelor of Arts in English and Psychology at Quest University. She has a diverse work and volunteer background, with experience working in the book publishing industry, in food and customer service, and with at-risk youth in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside neighborhood. At Connections Place, Paige draws on her own journey towards mental wellness to connect with and support members. She is passionate about building community and loves learning from the folks she works with.

Aylin Hurtado

“I’m Aylin! I have a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and a Bachelor of Health Sciences in Public Health from the University of Lethbridge. My educational background, my experience as an immigrant, and my own journey towards mental wellness has taught me the importance of community and connections. Through my work, I strive to help people feel valued, respected, and empowered.”

Jocelyn Plunkett

“I’m Jocelyn! I am a compassionate and dedicated support worker with extensive experiencing working with vulnerable adults. I bring a unique perspective to this role as I have lived experience which has allowed me to become skilled in assessing the needs of others and providing high quality care and support. I am so grateful for the opportunity to work at Connections Place and be able to make a difference in peoples lives.”

Gavin Reid

Gavin hails from the Maritimes. He comes from a background working with adults and youth with disabilities.  Gavin strives to create a space where everyone is welcome and a part of the team. He is an avid photographer, hiker and poet.

Neelam Pahal

Neelam has worked in mental health for many years now, and through her lived experience with mental illness, she brings forth passion and joy for supporting others. She believes in the power of healing through connection and using humor to add lightness. Honoring relationships is the core part of her approach in life, through family, friends, work, and even those she has yet to meet!

Growing up as a South Asian woman has greatly informed her lens in life. She’s strongly connected to her roots in Punjabi culture, language, food, music, and approaches to health, and says she has much more yet to process and also explore. She loves to stay active, to read, and learn knew skills and ways of thinking. The Clubhouse model has opened so many doors for her in personal and professional domains, and she looks forward to many more years in this area of mental health.

Please feel free to reach out to Neelam at her email [email protected] if you have any questions or thoughts for her.

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