Team
Thomas Prieur
Chief Experience Officer
Originally from France, I moved to Vancouver and after working in the international youth exchange industry for several years, I started Stepwest in 2010. Overseeing operations, marketing and business development are just some of the ways I spend the day!
Spoken Language(s): French, English, SpanishFun Fact(s): I used to run one of the World's biggest house music blog!
Carolina Perez Baso
Marketing Director
Originally from sunny Canary Islands, I oversee all communication, and marketing services with our agent partners. I look forward to meeting you and preparing some awesome programs for you to enjoy!
Spoken Language(s): English, SpanishFun Fact(s): I am a horrible Karaoke singer!
Tamara Dugonjic
Staffing Account Manager
Originally form Slovenia, I moved to Canada when I was young. I hold a bachelor degree in business management, as well as several years of experience in operation management. In my down time, I like to experience new cultures and destinations.
Fun Fact(s): I am a volleyball enthusiast!
Cassandra Leonhardt
Placement Specialist
Hailing from Vancouver, I love the diversity of forests, mountains and ocean that the city has to offer. I am responsible for placing Co-op students in their ideal jobs and setting them on a path to success. I enjoy traveling and have visited Japan, France, Italy, Greece, Mexico, U.S.A., the U.K. and the Canary Islands in Spain.
Spoken Language(s): English, FrenchFun Fact(s): I have saved somebody's life with CPR
Brianna Ho
Program Coordinator
Born and raised in Vancouver, I’ve had the opportunity to work in Hong Kong, backpack through Southeast Asia, travel throughout Europe, and explore the Canadian provinces. Through each of these experiences, I’ve loved learning about the different cultures and I can’t wait to help you with your new adventure!
Spoken Language(s): English, CantoneseFun Fact(s): I’m a huge dog lover and you’ll typically find me pointing out all the dogs on the street
Maria Jose Alarcon Roman
Placement Coordinator
I was born in Mexico, graduated from high school here in Vancouver, and got my Bachelor’s degree in Switzerland. I’ve also worked in few countries around the world, and now I would like to help you get the best work experience possible in Canada.
Spoken Language(s): English, SpanishFun Fact(s): I have a hairless cat named Chicken!
Josselyn Chen
Placement Coordinator
I was born in sunny Los Angeles, but spent most of my life in Vancouver. I hold a BA in Political Science from UBC, and I really appreciate beautiful scenery and good music from genres ranging from classical to contemporary hip-hop.
Spoken Language(s): English, MandarinFun Fact(s): I am learning to drive stick shift
Katie Wagner
Placement Coordinator
Born and raised in Austria I have had the chance to live in four different countries: Austria, United Kingdom, USA and now Canada! Naturally I love traveling and cultural exchange and am passionate about sharing my experiences. In my free time I enjoy hiking and exploring Vancouver’s beautiful surroundings.
Spoken Language(s): German, English, FrenchFun Fact(s): I have never broken a bone!
Karla Teran Gutierrez
Marketing Coordinator
Born and raised in Veracruz, Mexico, I lived in Canada for an exchange year during high school and that’s when I fell in love with this country and knew that I needed to come back! I graduated from my Bachelor’s degree in Mexico and came back to Canada to work and study while enjoying British Columbia and its amazing nature! I am sure you will love it too, so I am excited to help you with your new Canadian adventure!
Spoken Language(s): English, Spanish and learning PortugueseFun Fact(s): I had to be rescued in the ocean after my boat capsized in the Gulf of Mexico
Sharon Puspadewi
Community Coordinator
Born and raised in Indonesia, I came to Canada 3 years ago to pursue my BBA at Simon Fraser University. I oversee social media marketing as well as event coordination. As an international student myself, I know how hard it is to live far away from your family and friends. Therefore, I would love to help you guys make Canada your home away from home.
Spoken Language(s): English, Indonesian and learning Mandarin!Fun Fact(s): I can't ride a bike!
Alison Westfall
Digital Marketing Coordinator - Stepabroad
Born and raised in Alberta, I am passionate about travel and exploring the outdoors. I have taken several opportunities to do so, including studying in Paris, backpacking through Southeast Asia and a working holiday Down Under. These passions have led me to Stepabroad here in Vancouver and I am excited to help others discover the opportunity to #WorkTheWorld!
Spoken Language(s): English, FrenchFun Fact(s): I once built a camper van and traveled to several National Parks across the United States to discover new trails, camp under the stars and learn to surf.
Tessa Elliott
Sales & Marketing Coordinator - Stepabroad
I was born and raised in Calgary but moved to beautiful British Columbia for University – and became a nomad ever since. I have travelled to over 40 countries and have lived abroad in New Zealand, Austria, and South Korea. Living abroad opened up new opportunities for me, created lifelong friendships, and shaped me as a person. I am passionate about encouraging others to do the same!
Spoken Language(s): English
Tater
Chief Security Officer
I currently oversee the security of Stepwest staff and program participants. If you want to get on my good side, I looove back scratches.
Spoken Language(s): Pomeranian, English, French, CantoneseFun Fact(s): Hola! Currently learning Spanish!