Meet the Team | Multicultural Helping House Society

Ann Nienaber

Executive Director │ Email: annnienaber@helpinghouse.org

As Executive Director, Ann Nienaber is responsible for the successful leadership and management of the organization according to the strategic direction set by the Board of Directors, including overseeing administration, programs and services, finances, strategic planning, proposal writing and new business and program development. As an immigrant from South Africa, Ann is passionate about the immigrant settlement experience and the importance of receiving helpful and welcoming settlement services to ensure full participation in Canadian society and the economy. Ann brings a wealth of experience in strategic planning, business planning and development, project and program management, as well as government relations, funder and community engagement . Ann holds a Master's Degree in Political Science from Simon Fraser University. Ann can communicate with you in English and Afrikaans.

Homa Farahvashi

IRCC Settlement Worker │ Email: homaf@helpinghouse.org

Homa Farahvashi, an IRCC Settlement Worker, is thrilled to be a part of the Multicultural Helping House Society (MHHS) team. With a strong foundation in education and a passion for helping others, Homa’s journey has led her to this exciting role. She holds a degree in English literature and a master’s in educational leadership from Vancouver Island University.

Her previous roles as a school settlement coordinator and teacher have given her valuable experience in guiding and supporting individuals through important transitions. Equipped with skills and empathy, she excels as a settlement worker, connecting with individuals from diverse backgrounds and fostering understanding and collaboration. Homa looks forward to contributing her expertise to foster positive connections and empower those seeking a new beginning. She can assist you in both English and Farsi. If you have any settlement-related inquiries, don’t hesitate to reach out to her at MHHS.

Rey Blasco

IRCC Settlement Worker ╽ Email: reynaldob@helpinghouse.org

Born and raised in the Philippines, Rey holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from the Philippines, as well as a Diploma in Employment Counseling with certification in Job Club Facilitation, which he obtained in Canada. As an IRCC Settlement Worker, Rey brings his people skills, over 6 years of settlement work experience in Canada, and his lived experience of immigrating to Canada.

Rey’s extensive background includes working in Employment and Settlement Outreach programs, assisting vulnerable and abused Foreign Workers, refugees, International Students, and newly landed immigrants. His ability to communicate in both Tagalog and English allows him to connect effectively with diverse communities. If you have any settlement-related inquiries, feel free to reach out to Rey. He’s dedicated to supporting newcomers on their journey to a new life in Canada.

Kulwinder Kaur

IRCC Settlement Worker ╽ Email: kulwinderk@helpinghouse.org

Kulwinder Kaur, an IRCC Settlement Worker, plays a crucial role in providing settlement and orientation services to newcomers. As an immigrant from the province of Punjab, India, Kulwinder brings enthusiasm and energy to MHHS and its clients.

Her background as an educator and entrepreneur in the service industry equips her with valuable skills to effectively connect with people. Kulwinder’s empathy and excellent communication abilities make her dedicated to serving diverse communities. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Education and Home Science, and she is also certified in Mental Health and Personal Support Worker. Kulwinder is fluent in English, Punjabi, and Hindi, allowing her to assist newcomers in their preferred language. If you have any settlement-related inquiries, feel free to reach out to her at MHHS.

Giamna Elena Perez

IRCC Settlement Worker ╽ Email: giamnap@helpinghouse.org

Giamna Elena Perez, a dedicated Settlement Worker with a rich background in community support and a personal connection to the immigrant experience. Originally from Cuba and fluent in Spanish, Giamna brings a unique perspective and cultural sensitivity to her role. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Communication and a Community Services diploma, equipping her with a solid foundation to assist newcomers effectively. With extensive experience in the nonprofit sector, Giamna specializes in supporting immigrants, especially newcomers, recognizing and anticipating the barriers they face. Her commitment to facilitating access to community resources and guiding individuals through the settlement process reflects her deep dedication to making Canada a welcoming place for all.

Eric Rosales

IRCC Settlement Worker ╽ Email: ericr@helpinghouse.org

Eric is known as a small man with a big heart, especially for those in need. He holds a Bachelor of Theology in Pastoral Studies and a Bachelor of Education in Values Education from the Philippine Missionary Institute. Additionally, he completed Community Counselling skills training at Vancouver Community College and received his Minister's license from Canada Christian Ministry. Eric served as a pastor in the Philippines for 19 years before moving to Canada, where he took on various roles. At MHHS, he began as a youth coordinator, then became a Seniors Coordinator, and later a BCSIS Specialist. Fluent in Tagalog and familiar with several major Filipino dialects, Eric's goal-oriented, flexible, trustworthy, and compassionate nature are his greatest assets, enabling him to meet the needs of those around him.

Gabriela Bravo

IRCC Settlement Worker (on maternity leave) ╽ Email: gabrielab@helpinghouse.org

Gabriela Bravo, an IRCC Settlement Worker, is dedicated to facilitating the transition of newcomers from diverse backgrounds. Her role involves offering orientation and access to essential resources during their immigration journey. Originally from Chile, Gabriela brings valuable experience as a former social worker in health services, where she worked with immigrants from various Latin American countries. Additionally, she served as an accessibility advisor, supporting individuals with disabilities.

Gabriela’s personal experience as an immigrant to Canada in 2021 fuels her passion for assisting newcomers in overcoming challenges, navigating services, and successfully settling in their new home. She is fluent in both Spanish and English, allowing her to connect effectively with diverse communities. If you have any settlement-related inquiries, feel free to reach out to Gabriela at MHHS.

Ramon Garcia

Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC)╽Email: ramong@helpinghouse.org

Ramon Garcia, a regulated Canadian immigration consultant, completed his studies on immigration laws, policies, and procedures at the University of British Columbia (UBC). Before relocating to Canada with his family, he worked as an education compliance specialist at the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines. Additionally, he served as a hotel manager at Discovery Suites in Manila. Ramon holds a degree in economics from San Beda College.

Beyond his professional life, Ramon is a hopeless workaholic who engages in various tasks, including fixing electronics, carpentry, and selling household appliances. In his younger years, he was a track and field athlete, competing in the 200-meter sprints and 10k marathons. Now in Vancouver, you might spot him biking, hiking, or nature trekking in the city’s diverse parks, all in pursuit of boosting his zen energy. Ramon also cherishes travel experiences with his family, whether within Canada or abroad.

Ingrid Coifman

Volunteer Coordinator ╽ Email: volunteercoordinator@helpinghouse.org

Ingrid has 14 years of experience in the Volunteer Management field. She has worked with Children & Youth, Newcomers and Older Adult programs for non-profit organizations in Toronto and San Francisco, and developed special projects, fundraising campaigns and events for United Way. She obtained her BA in Communications – Public Relations in Brazil and continued her studies in Volunteer and Event Management at George Brown College in Canada.She is responsible for recruiting and matching volunteers of all ages, backgrounds, and experiences to assist with MHHS’ various programs. Ingrid strongly believes in community development and in building partnerships to develop solutions that empower individuals and create equal opportunities. Her intercultural communication skills have contributed to bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds to help build, promote, and maintain strong community connections.

Beatriz Cepeda

Finance Coordinator ╽ Email: admin@helpinghouse.org

Beatriz has a degree in civil engineering, administration, and a master’s degree in marketing. She has more than 20 years of experience as a Business Unit Manager in the construction industry in Peru, she has forged her path based on solid skills, perseverance, and initiative. Her arrival in Vancouver represents the beginning of a new phase in her career.

Now that Beatriz is part of the MHHS team, she assumes responsibility for financial management, giving her the unique opportunity to collaborate closely with a team dedicated to providing the resources and services necessary for people who have decided to embark on a new chapter in Canada be successful. Her motivation and excitement lie in actively contributing to the mission of MHHS and as an integral part of the team, Beatriz is committed to using her skills, experience, and dedication to community service to work hand in hand with the MHHS team.

Imee Gutierrez

Admin Coordinator╽ Email: info@helpinghouse.org

Born and raised in the Philippines, Imee Gutierrez exemplifies resilience and passion. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Accountancy and a Master’s degree in Business Management from renowned universities. With six years at PhilCom and eight at Globe Telecom, Imee’s career took an unexpected turn when she made the life-changing decision to relocate to Canada. Embracing a role at the Holy Names House of Peace, she dedicated herself to supporting newcomer women, embodying principles of empathy and inclusion.

Her calling in immigration law became clear as she pursued studies and earned her license as a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant in 2019. This solidified her commitment to helping individuals settle and thrive in Canada. In 2024, Imee embarked on a new chapter in British Columbia, where she joined MHHS as an Admin Coordinator.

Meet the MHHS Team