Mission & Values
Ignite’s mission is to lead integrated economic development growth through diverse initiatives that create an environment for our region and businesses to be successful. Through our diverse programming and service brands, our region will be the preferred location for entrepreneurs and businesses to launch, locate and grow. If that’s something you can get behind, consider working with us!
Our team members are:
• Committed – to our vision, mission, goals, partners, and our team
• Adaptable – to a changing environment and priorities
• Creative – to look for improvements and better ways to do our work
• Inclusive – to be open and supportive of people and ideas
• Trustworthy – to always be transparent, reliable, being a constant compass (Trustworthy >/= Honest)
Meet the Team
Sarah Corey Hollohan – CEO
What is the best advice you have ever been given?
Always take the high road, don’t let small obstacles derail you from the bigger goal. No matter the goal, stay true to yourself and your values. Everyone deserves your time and your kindness; treat every person with respect and consideration.
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
I love economic development. What I love about it is that traditionally, it’s people focused. No matter how far removed I get from clients, my job still means seeing people succeed in their commitment to their community’s day over day. That is very energizing.
What inspires you?
A challenge, complex problem, people, the big plan. I’m a big fan of strategic planning and thinking, modelling, and measuring impact.
What in work or in life are you particularly proud of? I am proud of the relationships I have built over my career. I value these relationships/partnerships and being able to walk into a room and have meaningful conversations. Communication is essential.
How do you spend your time outside of the office?
Outside of the office I enjoy reading, spending time with my family and friends. Between leadership books and fiction, I probably have four books on the go at any given time. When it comes to family, I am very focused on making sure my daughter has the experiences that will give her a positive, empowered perspective on the world.
Nausheen Ali – Director Workforce Development & Attraction
What is the best advice you have ever been given?
Let go of what is out of reach, and focus on what is achievable. No matter how far you go or how hard you try, there will always be something that you leave behind. Success, if achieved at the cost of one's health, family or happiness, doesn't carry the same flavour.
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
The fact that I am able to make a difference in someone's life, both directly and indirectly.
Do you have a favourite inspirational quote?
“Whatever happens in your life, no matter how troubling things might seem, do not enter the neighbourhood of despair. Even when all doors remain closed, God will open up a new path only for you. Be thankful! It is easy to be thankful when all is well. A Sufi is thankful not only for what he has been given but also for all that he has been denied" - from 40 Rules of Love, Elif Shafak.
What in work or in life are you particularly proud of?
I feel proud whenever my children receive distinctions for their activities, I feel proud whenever any family member achieves a goal. Similarly, I feel proud when we achieve our goals at work and when my team feels accomplished on their jobs.
How do you spend your time outside the office?
I am an avid reader of fiction and Vice Chair of the Fredericton Public Library board. In my spare time, I am also a licensed financial advisor. I enjoy cooking. My kids tell me that my mood of the day is reflected in whatever I cook. If I'm angry, I tend to make the food spicy. If I'm relaxed, I make dessert or comfort foods. If I'm anxious or stressed, I normally mess up the recipes. This way my family knows when to not mess with me :) I've been told that I sing beautifully by people who've overheard me (the idea of singing publicly terrifies me). I love to dance as well but never got to learn a specific genre until now. I've recently signed up to learn salsa and jazz.
Doyin Somorin – Manager Integration & Retention
What is the best advice you’ve ever been given?
I once was told to not allow my past experiences to steal my present. I should rather dwell on the things that make me feel good and alive because if I do, I can go out to change the world.
Do you have a favourite inspirational quote?
“Whatever it is, and no matter how long has passed since you made the commitment to start something, the best time to do it is NOW! As such, when the fear of failure or the unknown starts to creep in.... just do it!”
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
I am passionate about helping immigrants succeed because I have experienced the realities and challenges of being an immigrant in this region. I am happy to be in a role that helps international students, and immigrants thrive and succeed in Fredericton. I support them through their transition in Canada and empower them with various tools and resources, training, programs, and experience, to propel them to success and thereby enrich our community.
What in work or in life are you most proud of?
Since joining the Ignite team in 2021, I have implemented several immigration initiatives for immigrants and support programs for immigrant women and international students. The programs have already proved successful, and demand has been strong as they offer both the skills and connections needed to find success in Canada. Also, I recognize the importance of diversity to Fredericton's future growth. I am proud of helping newcomers, international students, and established immigrants find the community resources they need here in Fredericton, and I am proud to call Fredericton my home.
How do you spend your time outside the office?
I love to read, volunteer, cook, and dance.
Chiamaka Uloeme – Integration & Retention Coordinator
What is the best advice you’ve ever been given?
To approach life with humility, a receptive mindset, and a heart full of love and kindness.
Do you have a favourite inspirational quote?
My favourite inspirational quote is to focus on progress, not perfection.
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
What motivates me is the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in people’s lives whether it's through organizing programs, providing resources, or offering guidance, I focus on creating a welcoming atmosphere where people feel valued and equipped to succeed. I contribute to the customer experience by ensuring that every interaction is supportive, personalized, and helpful.
What in work or in life are you most proud of?
A moment I am proud of is being part of a charity that provides support for the less privileged in Nigeria. Hearing success stories and knowing that my efforts contributed to improving someone's life was incredibly fulfilling.
How do you spend your time outside the office?
A unique thing about me is that I have a passion for gardening and candle-making. I love tending to my plants and watching them grow, which brings me a sense of peace and fulfillment. Gardening allows me to connect with nature and create a vibrant space around me. In addition, I enjoy making candles and experimenting with different scents and designs. It’s a creative outlet that brings me joy, and I find it relaxing to craft something beautiful and functional.
Sarah Caissie - Capital Region Integration Network (CRIN) Project Specialist
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Don’t limit yourself based on other people's expectations or timelines. We all have our journeys and lessons to be learned along the way, and it's important to acknowledge that not every path is the same.
What inspires you?
I am inspired by resiliency, whether from an individual or community perspective. It is easy to become overwhelmed by all of the negative things in our world. But there's also so much strength, knowledge, beauty, and hope. If we change the narrative and lift those voices, listen, share, and collaborate with open hearts and open minds, we can start to see real change.
Do you have a favourite inspirational quote?
“The universe does not have laws. It has habits. And habits can be broken.” - Tom Robbins
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
I am a people person, and I love getting to know people, hearing their stories, and learning from their experiences. I am also a helper by nature, and through those stories and connections, I try to address people's needs whether by linking people to services and supports or by advocating for creative, collaborative solutions to gaps in our community.
What in work or life are you most proud of?
I am proud of the fact that I try to make the most out of any situation. For example, while in school I had to do a practicum in a housing program for at-risk youth. This was not the area/setting of youth work that I ever saw myself working in, but since that was the specification for the placement, I chose to be open to the experience. I quickly learned that it was a great fit for me, and it led to a 15-year career working with homeless and at-risk youth. I learned a lot from that experience, not only by developing professional skills and networks but also through personal growth and introducing me to people with whom I have developed lifelong friendships.
How do you spend your time outside the office? I love music, especially seeing live music in a festival context, and have traveled to various festivals over the last eight years, while also reveling in the fact that we have such an incredible festival right here in Fredericton.
Juan Diego Rivas - Capital Region Integration Network Coordinator
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Always remember where you come from. My Father taught me that no matter how successful I become, there is always room from growth. Humility, kindness and compassion is what helps us make ourselves and the world better.
What inspires you?
I would say that I draw my inspiration from my parents. My parents have had to make several sacrifices and overcome many obstacles throughout their careers. They are an example of strength, courage and resilience. Seeing them accomplish so much in spite of the circumstances has taught me that no obstacle is too big. That is the kind of energy that I look forward to bring to the team and our efforts.
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
What keeps me motivated is knowing the impact of the work that I am doing. When I came to Canada, I experienced different challenges as an international student. Being able to share the knowledge and experiences that I have acquired to help future newcomers is something that I very much enjoy doing. It allows me to give back to the community that saw me grow as a professional and help people that come to succeed, just as I have.
What in work or in life are you most proud of?
Graduating from university is one of my proudest moments. It was quite the challenge due to different circumstances. However, I took a page out my parents' book and was able to succeed.
How do you spend your time outside the office?
I love playing videogames on my spare time! I grew up doing so and never stopped.
Afreen Sayyed – Workforce Development Coordinator
What is the best advice you’ve ever been given?
The most impactful advice I've received boils down to two essential principles: always give your best effort and trust in a higher power for the outcome, and remember, no matter how tough things seem, it's never the end of the world.
Do you have a favourite inspirational quote?
I have two cherished inspirational quotes that anchor me in the midst of life's storms. The first: 'For indeed, with hardship will come ease.' And the second reassures: 'Everything unfolds in its perfect time having faith and patience are key.'
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
What motivates me here is the chance to assist newcomers like myself in settling into new environments. Having been in similar situations, I understand the challenges one might face. Being able to offer guidance and support adds fulfillment to my journey while contributing to your positive experience. It's like finding a hidden gem, knowing I can make a difference while exploring and growing in this role.
What in work or in life are you most proud of?
I take pride in how my upbringing, centered on kindness and consideration for others, has cultivated deep bonds globally. These values have empowered me to navigate life's trials, nurturing support and personal growth in my relationships. Witnessing how these principles enrich not just my life but also those around me brings immense fulfillment, fostering enduring connections and avenues for development.
How do you spend your time outside the office?
Here's something you might not know about me: I love having fun and being a bit naughty, just like a little kid! When I'm not working, I enjoy traveling, cooking new dishes, and spending time with the people I care about. These things show you that I'm adventurous and lively outside of work.
Andrew Lockhart – Director of Entrepreneurial & Economic Growth
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
Everybody plays a role in economic development, no matter what their profession or life path. The work we put into our community, our economy, directly affects following generations. My role as a father goes hand in hand with my profession, I will be handing this community to my children some day.
What in work or in life are you most proud of?
About 20 years ago, my father bought land in hopes to one day build a camp he can share with his family. I spent many days with my father, sleeping in a tent, in the middle of the woods. Throughout the years, I helped my father build the camp that now stands on that property. Something 20 years ago that seemed like a large feat, my father (and a bit of me) accomplished.
What’s a little-known fact about you?
I own a kilt that was passed down to me by my grandfather. It has the Lockhart family tartan.
Ori Cordido – Manager of Entrepreneurial Services
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
“There is no elevator to success you need to take the stairs.” I love this quote because it is the essence of being an entrepreneur. You need to work hard and go through every step of the process in order to reach your goal and be innovative.
What inspires you?
Impact. If it's not going to do something good why bother? I love working with people and on businesses that are creating an impact in their community. It can be social, environmental or economic impact! Love to do things with a purpose.
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
I love meeting new people but I also love being part of a clients journey who is building their business from the ground up! Since I was exposed to entrepreneurship when I arrived to Canada I haven't been able to imagine myself doing something not in the Startup ecosystem.
What in work or in life are you most proud of?
Making Canada my home is a big highlight! But I will say that I am most proud of the community I am a part of. I love discussing ideas and being in a welcoming community.
What’s a little-known fact about you?
Canada Day is my favourite holiday! I am a newcomer to Canada and I have fallen in love with this country
Rezaul Haider – Business Startup Coordinator
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
The best piece of advice I got from my parents is to be kind, even in tough times, as kindness has the power to inspire change and build lasting relationships in the personal and professional world.
What inspires you?
There is a Japanese proverb that says- "Fall seven times, stand up eight.". The resilience of people who overcome adversity inspires me to keep pushing forward. This resilience helped me when I came to Canada and started everything from scratch.
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
I believe in the power of collaboration to create lasting impact, and Ignite’s commitment to empowering local businesses aligns perfectly with my goals to support regional development. This is a perfect place to create an impact on the community and grow within.
What in work or life are you most proud of?
I am proud of my decision to leave a successful career in my home country, come to Canada with my family, and start fresh. While the journey had its challenges, the support from the community and people made it far easier than I anticipated. This experience has made me more resilient and adaptable, and now I’m committed to giving back to the community.
What’s a little-known fact about you?
I enjoy traveling, meeting new people, and sharing conversations over a cup of coffee.
Hannahbelle Weaver – Business Development Officer
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Everything comes to you at the right time, be patient.
What inspires you?
"Our prime purpose in this life is to help others." - His Holiness the Dalai Lama
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
Seeing people reach their fullest potential and being able to give back to the community.
What in work or in life are you most proud of?
I've done a lot of volunteer work internationally, which has helped me to make lifelong friendships with amazing people all across the world.
What’s a little-known fact about you?
I paint in my free time and display my pieces at local shows!
Andrea Escober - Business Development Officer
What is the best advice you’ve ever been given?
Do not leave for tomorrow what can be done today! Every day is a new beginning and an opportunity to thrive.
Do you have a favourite inspirational quote?
I am inspired by sustainable goals and individuals who are resilient in pursuing them. I strongly believe persistence is key to success! My mother was my first role model and I have learned from her that succeeding is about lifting each other, creating an impact with acts of kindness, and not being afraid of failure. Sustainable goals not only require consistent advocacy and work but also empathy and a will to build a better world. My favourite quote is by David Bowie: "Tomorrow belongs who does who can see it coming."
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
I decided to join Ignite since I am driven by sustainable growth! I believe each one of these departments is committed to making New Brunswick a place where we can foster and continue both social and economic growth. Ignite envisions reaching the welfare of the province through economic growth and it resonates with my passions and long-term goals
What in work or life are you most proud of?
My family in Honduras has also been driven to help communities in need at home. We were always trying to find means to help families in need by donating food, clothing, furniture, or any home item yearly. Last year, I was able to convince my mother to found our not-for-profit organization and we founded "Ayudame y Ayudas." I am beyond happy to be one of the founding members of this organization and to also have been part of our first medical brigade for a Nursing home! Check out the website: https://www.fundacionayudameyayudas.com/blank
How do you spend your time outside the office?
Art appreciation is genuinely one of the things I am beyond happy I learned from my grandparents! I enjoy visiting galleries, listening to live music, going to plays, and assisting in expositions in which art is celebrated! I also paint and cook as a hobby.
Mikala Watson – Business Development Officer
Currently on maternity leave
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?
To recognize and be at peace with letting go of situations/environments/people that no longer serve you.
What inspires you?
I'm constantly inspired both by those around me and my environment. One of my favorite quotes would have to be "I sit before flowers hoping they will train me in the art of opening up. I stand on mountain tops believing that avalanches will teach me to let go. I know nothing...but I am here to learn"
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
Understanding that I’m in a role that is deeply impactful to our communities and their growth is paramount. Supporting our local businesses to create real economic change is incredibly impactful. The passion that our clients bring to their business energizes me to bring that same passion in supporting their business growth and their goals.
What in work or in life are you most proud of?
One of the aspects in both my professional work and personal life that I take immense pride in is the ability to adapt and learn continuously. I have faced various challenges and opportunities throughout my life, each serving as a platform for growth. The ability to adapt and learn continuously; paired with my motivation to positively impact the lives of those around me is what I consider to be my greatest achievement in both work and life.
What’s a little-known fact about you?
I listen to every kind of music, if I'm the DJ, get ready to listen to it all!
Tara Leavitt – Operations Manager | Planet Hatch
What’s the best advice you were ever given?
In relationships of all kinds, communication is key, know when to pause but don't ever stop talking.
What inspires you?
Genuine people and hard work.
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
The people: I have the best job! I work alongside entrepreneurs every day in a space that breathes great energy. There is nobody more motivated, driven or has more grit than an entrepreneur and when you mix that with the genuine support in our region…magic happens and that’s a space I want to be in!
What in work or in life are you most proud of?
That's easy. I'm most proud of my family, who taught me that if I want something bad enough, I have the strength and commitment to do it.
Tell us something about you that no one knows:
Galloping on a horse in a big open field is my favourite thing ever!
Ekaterina Naiman – Administrative & Program Coordinator | Planet Hatch
What’s the best advice you were ever given?
to accept the creative rights of my reality. When a person fully accepts their creative rights, they step outside of the passive observer mode of their reality and into the aware creator mode.
What inspires you?
Innovation, sustainability, and connecting people. Most impossible things become possible when people put their ideas, skills, experiences, and efforts together.
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
Being of service to others and creative atmosphere to express and apply myself motivate me the most. As a connecting person between people and resources, I thrive when I contribute productively to someone's day. This may include information sharing, guidance, or simply smiling or offering a cup of hot beverage.
Tell us something about you that no one knows:
While I am in love with the planet Earth, its nature, and showering myself in its gifts when I spend time outdoors, I dream of a round trip to space. Would you join me? :)
Paula Lehr – Director of Marketing & Communications
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
The number one reason people give up so fast is because they tend to look at how far they still have to go instead of how far they have come. But it's a series of small wins that can give us the most significant success.
What inspires you?
Connection and passion. For me, fulfillment in my work and personal life comes from seeing impact. “People with great passion can make the impossible happen.” - Anonymous
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
I love storytelling and creating inspirational ways for people to make a connection that relates to their life. The marketing & communications team contributes to the customer experience at Ignite through effective campaigns that inspire and result in a connection or a lesson learned.
What in work or in life are you most proud of?
During my time as a Downtown Revitalization Coordinator in Collingwood, Ontario, there were several initiatives launched that, today, are still going strong! Those initiatives continue to support a vibrant and accessible downtown core which allows for artists, entrepreneurs and small businesses grow and thrive.
What’s a little-known fact about you?
I am a champion for veteran and first responder causes and volunteer my time/expertise to support them. In my spare time, I am outside: you will find me on the water, on my motorcycle/snowmobile, or enjoying life with my partner Dave and Lily our Golden Retriever. Five years ago, my partner and I decided to set off on an east coast adventure and we haven’t looked back!
Julia Pazzano - Marketing & Communications Specialist
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?
Every mistake is an opportunity for growth.
What inspires you?
My grandfather loved to tinker. If he didn't know how to do something, he taught himself through trial and error. He accomplished so much in his lifetime and never let anything get in his way. His memory is what inspires me to always be creative, think outside the box, and try new things.
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
Working with entrepreneurs is amazing because they are all resourceful and innovative. Running a business means facing problems head on and working hard to find solutions to your problems. In my work, I am able to support so many different entrepreneurs alongside my coworkers. Knowing that I'm helping to support these businesses that are improving our region and making it a great place to live is what motivates me in my work.
How do you like to spend time outside the office?
I am an avid reader and love to explore different worlds of fiction.
Rey Cascante - Marketing & Communications Coordinator
What is the best advice you have ever been given?
I think the best advice I have put to good use is “Be familiar with what makes you nervous and use it to your advantage”. Sometimes we get stuck or are terrified of what might happen but using those strong feelings to succeed through any situation has always worked out for my journey.
What inspires you?
All the people and situations that have led me to become the person I am today have shown kindness as the ultimate form of service. Daily acts of kindness have proved to come a long way to making my community a better place.
What in work or in life are you particularly proud of?
Building a new life from scratch as a young international student ended up being a journey to find myself, my own values, and beliefs. Every obstacle made me realize that life is a beautiful forest to explore, that every experience is worth stopping for once in a while. I believe I have found my place in the world and to share my kindness to inspire others.
How do you spend your time outside of the office?
I’m an actor! I have participated in various theatrical productions in Fredericton and sometime in the future I hope to expand the repertoire under my belt to all over the world.
Ashleigh Corey - Marketing & Communications Coordinator
What is the best advice you have ever been given?
The best piece of advice I've ever been given is: "Surround yourself with positive people who believe in your dreams, encourage your ideas, support your ambitions, and bring out the best in you." ~ Roy T. Bennett
What inspires you?
What motivates me is the act of assisting others, recognizing the power of collective effort, and striving to create memorable experiences. Additionally, my daily inspiration stems from the unwavering support of my family and friends, consistently driving me to become a more improved individual.
What motivates you?
My motivation for joining this organization and contributing to its success lies in the profound objective of making a meaningful impact on economic development. I firmly believe that marketing plays a pivotal role in numerous success narratives, and actively participating in this process to provide substantial assistance is genuinely fulfilling and inspiring to me.
What in work or in life are you particularly proud of?
As an individual who wasn't particularly outgoing during my formative years and, to be candid, quite reserved, my most significant accomplishment thus far was securing the title of Miss Nackawic in 2016 and earning the Miss Congeniality honor at the Miss New Brunswick Pageant in 2017. These experiences served as catalysts for me to break out of my shell, conquer my fear of public speaking, amass over 100 hours of volunteer service, and make a positive impact in my hometown and province. It's a transformation I never anticipated, but in hindsight, I've come to appreciate that personal growth often occurs when we venture beyond our comfort zones.
How do you spend your time outside of the office?
A fun tidbit about me is my passion for singing, combined with a deep love for the great outdoors. Usually, you'll find me loading my two chocolate Labrador retrievers into the Jeep and embarking on our next adventure – and trust me, their enthusiasm never wanes.
Deepty Sarder - Economic Specialist
Currently on maternity leave
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?
To embrace failure as a stepping stone to success.
What inspires you?
Acknowledgment serves as a driving force for me, igniting a sense of worth and determination to conquer challenges, as I believe my diligent efforts will not go unnoticed. My favourite inspirational quote "The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing."--Socrates
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
I have a strong interest in economic analysis, which has led me to this point. As an expert in economics, I can contribute my valuable insights to analyze the economic effects of different factors and activities within a professional setting. Additionally, I can collaborate with local leaders to execute initiatives and projects, as well as predict the future economic growth of a region.
What situation in work or life are you particularly proud of?
My path towards becoming an Economist was both remarkable and demanding. There was a time when I doubted whether I would ever achieve my goal, considering how challenging it is to obtain such an opportunity in Bangladesh. I struggled to distinguish myself and felt unable to make a mark. However, I made the bold choice to pursue a second Master's degree in Canada, and I take immense pride in that decision, as it ultimately allowed me to fulfill my dream.
How do you like to spend time outside the office?
I've got some serious cooking skills, and I'm always up for an adventure! As a kid, while others dreamed of becoming doctors or engineers, I fantasized about being a free-spirited gypsy. I'm all about being true to myself, doing my own thing, and pursuing whatever brings me joy. I love to think outside of the box and enjoy venturing into uncharted territories, constantly seeking new experiences and pushing the boundaries of what I've done before.
Farnaz Ghorbani - Economic Analyst
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?
Never stop trying, no matter how tough things get, because perseverance leads to growth and success. It might sound like a cliché, but trust me, it truly works—and so far it has worked for me.
What inspires you?
My ambition and dreams inspire me more than anything. They push me to keep going, strive for more, and remind me that every step forward is progress toward success.
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
What motivates me in my role is the opportunity to use my expertise in data analysis, research, and economic analysis to make a real impact. I’m driven by the challenge of turning complex data into powerful stories that inspire change and drive growth. By contributing my skills to regional development, I aim to not just support Ignite’s mission, but also to create a positive and lasting experience for our customers and communities.
What situation in work or life are you particularly proud of?
I am most proud of my extensive and diverse academic and professional background, which has shaped me into a well-rounded and adaptable individual. In every team I've been part of, I've always strived to leave a lasting, positive impact. I take pride in using my skills, knowledge, and passion for learning to drive success, inspire others, and contribute to meaningful outcomes that truly make a difference.
How do you like to spend time outside the office?
I’m deeply passionate about nature. Being outdoors sparks a sense of adventure and freedom that energizes me. Whether I’m hiking through lush forests or savoring a peaceful moment by the water, nature ignites my curiosity and fuels my creativity.
Michelle Hull - Office Manager
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
You can’t control the world around you, but you can control how you react to it. Essentially, life happens but it is empowering to realize that you have the ability to control your thoughts and actions and react mindfully to the sometimes chaotic world around us. When life feels out of control you can always manage it by working from the inside out.
What inspires you?
My family is what inspires me to be the person I am and to navigate through this crazy world!
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
My role is more behind the scenes which suits me just fine! I love being a support to the team and am proud to be part of an organization that has so much impact on our region.
How do you spend your time outside the office?
Outside of the office, my primary role is mom and wife and most of my time is spent hanging out with my husband and two boys. One of my passions has always been dance and performing. Although I haven’t stepped foot on a stage myself in years, I still love everything about the theatre. If “professional theatre goer” was a job, I would be doing that!
Mehar Dar - Administrative Assistant
Currently on maternity leave
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
The best advice I’ve ever received is to view failure not as an end but as a valuable lesson. Whether in your personal or professional journey, use it as an opportunity to learn, grow, and improve.
What inspires you?
My parents are a profound source of inspiration for me. As immigrants who moved to a new country and started small businesses and worked tirelessly through countless challenges, their unwavering dedication and hard work have shown me the true meaning of perseverance. Their ability to overcome obstacles and continually strive for success motivates me to approach my own journey with the same resilience and commitment.
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
My personal experience as a newcomer to Canada equips me with a unique empathy and understanding of the challenges faced by others in similar situations. I will leverage this perspective to ensure that newcomers receive tailored, compassionate support throughout their transition. By actively listening to their needs, providing clear and practical guidance, and offering a welcoming and supportive environment, I aim to enhance their overall experience and help them feel more at home. My goal is to make their journey smoother and more positive, drawing from my own experiences to provide meaningful and effective assistance.
What situation in work or life are you particularly proud of?
I take immense pride in having accomplished everything I set my mind to, from earning my business degree to securing a job in my desired field and even relocating to a new province. Each of these achievements represents a significant milestone in my personal and professional journey.
How do you spend your time outside the office?
In my free time, I’m passionate about baking and cooking, especially when I stumble upon exciting new recipes online. I love experimenting with different recipes and getting my husband’s opinion on them—though I must admit, not every experiment turns out perfectly! It's all part of the fun.
Rebecca Carrigan - Administrative Assistant
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
My father used to say that there were three types of people in this world: There are the people who make things happen, the people who talk about things that happen, and the people who say "what the heck happened?". He said I needed to pick what kind of person I wanted to be. This hit me hard because although I'm a dreamer at heart, if I only have one life to live, I wanted to be a person who makes things happen during the time I was here. So I have done that my entire life and continue to today.
What inspires you?
"Never allow the fear of striking out, keep you from playing the game." - Babe Ruth
I love this quote because if you're too scared to try, you may never achieve anything in life.
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
I enjoy supporting people anyway I can and seeing people achieve their goals. No matter if it's coordinating, organizing, lightening the load or just keeping things running in the background. If I can make the lives of my coworkers easier on a regular basis and help welcome future entrepreneurs, I'll enjoy my work daily. I like knowing I work for a company that helps guide businesses to reach their goals and ultimately helps our community grow.
What situation in work or life are you particularly proud of?
One of the things I'm most proud of in life was producing my first feature film based on my self-published novel. I was just an actor and never went to film school, so I had a hard time getting any grants, support or help from my community. Most people said I was thinking "too big" for what I could really do. But I figured I had been on enough sets, and with my creative background, I could figure it out. Determined to bring my story to life, I worked extra hard between two jobs to buy all my own equipment, fundraised with musical events and ultimately pulled off a 2.5-hour feature film full of new and upcoming actors and local musicians on my soundtrack. This film went on to win at the Canadian International Film Festival, and ultimately connected me to my career within the film industry on the West Coast, opening many doors and opportunities. Since then, I realized how resourceful I am in many ways, and I've felt more confident that I can learn new skills and achieve things that might seem impossible. I encourage others to do the same. I believe there's always a way if you're willing to put in the work learn from your mistakes.
How do you spend your time outside the office?
I speak basic Japanese and am continuing to learn every day. Since I was little, I've been obsessed with the Japanese culture, including their folklore, gardening, art and design. This passion inspired me to write one of my first novels and ultimately go to design school. My home is a representation of this as well, with relaxing colours and items that make my space fun, creative and beautiful inside and out. I would love to take a language and culture course in Japan someday! Or maybe dive deep into the art of tea-making.