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, Spanish
Fun 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, Spanish
Fun 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. 

Spoken Language(s): English, Serbian
Fun Fact(s): I am a volleyball enthusiast!

Cassandra Leonhardt

Lead 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, French
Fun 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, Cantonese
Fun Fact(s): I’m a huge dog lover and you’ll typically find me pointing out all the dogs on the street

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, French
Fun 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 Portuguese
Fun Fact(s): I had to be rescued in the ocean after my boat capsized in the Gulf of Mexico

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, French
Fun 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, Cantonese
Fun Fact(s): Hola! Currently learning Spanish!