Fiona Wheeler

Fiona worked in health care and support work prior to acquiring her BA at the University of Victoria. In her spare time Fiona regularly volunteers at the Victoria Women’s Transition House, and practices self-care by riding her bike, doing yoga, reading and gardening. She is excited to bring her prior experiences and a passion for mental wellness to her role at Connections Place and she is always available to support members.

Alexis Minkley

“Hi! My name is Alexis. I have a BA in psychology from UVic and experience volunteering with vulnerable populations. My education and training as well as my own life experience have led me to have a passion for mental health. I believe relationships and social connection are vital to supporting the wellbeing of all of us, but can be of particular importance in periods of stress. Members of Connections Place are always welcome to reach out to me for support, laughs, and friendship. 🙂”

Ingrid Nielsen

Ingrid completed her bachelor’s degree in psychology and has her early childhood education certificate. In the past, she has worked primarily in supporting people with diverse abilities, and has volunteered with various mental health organisations. She is passionate about supporting wellness in her community and is thrilled to be joining Connections Clubhouse. Her goal is to approach others with an openness and acceptance of their unique strengths and life stories. In her free time, she enjoys wellness activities such as pilates, running, and playing the Sims.

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.”

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

Paige originally hails from Southern California and moved to BC in 2017 to complete her Bachelor of Arts in English and Psychology at Quest University. Her previous experience includes working in the book publishing industry, in food and customer service, and with at-risk youth in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside neighborhood.

Paige started at Connections Place in January 2024 and transitioned from a Kitchen Unit Program Staff to the Program Manager role. She is passionate about building community and loves learning from the folks she works with. She particularly enjoys sharing about the Clubhouse model through community outreach, reorganizing the Clubhouse space, and finding creative ways to connect with members. Outside of work, Paige can be found climbing, crafting, singing in her choir, and cuddling her dog.

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.”

Neelam Pahal

Neelam has worked in mental health for over 10 years, 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. Honouring relationships is the core part of her approach in life, through family, friends, work, and even those 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. Neelam loves to stay active, to read, and learn new 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.

Leah Ralph

Leah has volunteered in the social services sector for almost thirty years. When COVID hit, she decided to take the plunge and go back to school to pursue her dream of giving back professionally. While enrolled in Camosun’s Mental Health and Addictions program, Leah was introduced to Connections Place through a practicum placement. The vision and values of the clubhouse were a natural fit for her and when an opportunity to join the team as part of an outreach pilot program came along, Leah excitedly jumped on board.

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