The GREATEST DEVELOPMENT is achieved during the first years of life. And therefore it is then that the greatest care should be taken -Maria Montessori

ATHUL

My name is Athul, and I am an international student from India. After finishing high school, I spent nearly a year working in social services with a nonprofit organization back home. I began as a practicum student at the Boys and Girls Club, and after my first term, I was honored to be hired to continue working with BGC.

Being part of such a supportive community that prioritizes children’s development and well-being has been an incredible experience. This opportunity has provided me with valuable insights and allowed me to learn from senior staff members. I am passionate about early learning education and committed to fostering a nurturing environment that inspires curiosity, creativity, and kindness in children. My goal is to continue developing the skills needed to support children’s growth, both emotionally and intellectually, and to make a lasting, positive impact as an early learning educator.

DAN

My name is Dan, and I am an international student from China, currently studying in the Early Learning and Child Care program at Keyano College. I have completed my first semester and earned my Level 1 Early Childhood Educator certificate. I am deeply passionate about education and have a genuine love for children, and I am committed to continually learning and growing in this field.

I understand that early education plays a crucial role in shaping a child’s future, and I am dedicated to creating a nurturing and supportive environment for every child in my care. Though I am still in the early stages of my career, I have already experienced the joy of working with children and look forward to contributing to their development as I continue my studies and gain more practical experience.

HANNIE

During her youth, Hannie served as an outreach volunteer for underprivileged children in her home country. It was at that point that she realized her purpose – to provide care for children and to foster their desire to learn.

Hannie taught music to grade school and high school students in the Philippines before moving to Fort McMurray in 2022.
She earned her Certificate in Early Learning and Child Care in 2023, where she was recognized as Keyano College’s Valedictorian. She received her Diploma and Level 3 Certificate the following year. She holds both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in Music Education from the University of Santo Tomas.

Hannie is committed to providing a calm, stimulating, and inclusive environment where children can flourish as strong and capable individuals.

Outside of work, Hannie loves to make music, read, and play with her cat.

JANE

Jane has been a baby room educator as part of the BGC team since 2014. She was born and raised in the Philippines and has called Fort McMurray home since 2009. Jane has always had a passion for working with children, so it was only natural that she pursued an education and career in early childhood development. Her favourite part of being an educator is interacting and engaging in children’s play and helping them develop socially and emotionally. Jane loves the supportive, friendly atmosphere and professional development opportunities that BGC offers. In her spare time, Jane can be found cooking, gardening and spending time with her son and friends.

JAMIE

I am Jamie Miranda, an international student, and taking up Early Learning and Child Care Diploma at Keyano College. I came from the Philippines and obtained my bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education majoring in English at Don Honorio Ventura Technological State University. I was a public-school teacher for almost four years, and it brought me great satisfaction and a sense of accomplishment to know that I was actively contributing to the development of those children.

I am truly honored to be Fort McMurray Boys and Girls Club. I have learned a lot from all the staff and children I have interacted with. Furthermore, I would like to enhance my capabilities and knowledge in becoming more loving, caring, and understanding early childhood educator.

LENIE

Lenie was born in the Philippines and attended a prestigious university where she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Education. In 2003, Lenie immigrated to Canada in pursuit of new opportunities that would better support her family. As a mentor to the children in her care, Lenie works hard to ensure that each child’s social, physical and emotional growth and development is nurtured. She is dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of these “leaders of tomorrow” and enjoys being a part of the team at BGC that shares these same values.

MARILYN

Marilyn joined the BGC Fort McMurray team in 2017 as a Tiny Toes Daycare Educator. With a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education (which she earned in the Philippines) combined with a Level 3 Certification from Alberta Childcare Qualification, she has a solid background in early childhood education. Marilyn is team oriented, energetic and positive – all traits that enable her to get along well with her co-workers, parents and the children in her care. She enjoys organizing and leading activities that promote the social, physical, intellectual and emotional development of young children. Marilyn is passionate making sure children feel safe and happy under her care. 

MARICEL

Maricel is a licensed secondary school teacher in the Philippines. She moved to Fort McMurray to pursue her studies in the Early Learning and Child Care Diploma at Keyano College. Aside from her passion for teaching, Maricel loves her students and treats them as her own. She is a level 1 Certified Child Development worker and continues improving her skills through her studies and experiences gained at BGC.

Maricel understands that every child is unique and has their own needs. She believes that understanding and loving each child is essential. Maricel considers love the most effective tool in her care for children, as she believes everything else will naturally fall into place when there is love.

NIEVES

Nieves joined the BGC Team in March 2024. Originally from the Philippines, she previously served as a police officer before moving to Canada to pursue her dreams. Nieves completed her Early Learning and Child Care Certificate at Keyano College.

With her diverse experience, Nieves is dedicated to building strong, lasting connections with children, families, and colleagues. She recognizes the individuality of each child’s learning style and interests and is committed to providing the support they need to thrive.

Nieves believes every child has the potential to shape the future, and she is passionate about nurturing their growth and development.

RACHEL

Rachel is an international student from the Philippines who came to Canada to pursue her studies. She completed an Early Learning and Childcare Diploma and graduated in May 2024, becoming certified as a Level 3 Early Childhood Educator.

During her studies, Rachel completed her practicum at BGC, where she excelled at creating an engaging and nurturing environment for children. Her dedication to their development and well-being earned her a position at BGC. In her role, Rachel consistently demonstrates strong leadership, patience, and a deep commitment to fostering the growth and development of the children in her care.

ROSARIO

Rosario was born and raised in the Philippines. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Education before becoming a secondary teacher in a public school for 20 years before moving to Canada. In 2015, Rosario received her certificate as a Level 3 Child Care Supervisor from Alberta Child Care Certification and joined the BGC family the same year. Rosario’s passion for working with kids in evident in every interaction she has with them – from the care she takes to keeping them happy in their daily lives and helping them build confidence. Through her many years of experience, Rosario has developed a practical and knowledgeable approach to assessing the needs and skills of the children in her care. In the seven years Rosario has been with BGC, she has had the opportunity to care for a variety of different age levels. Currently, she is caring for infants and is thoroughly enjoying the time she spends with them.

VANIZA

My name is Vaniza. I was born and raised in the Philippines. I am married and have a 10 -year-old son that attends at Dr. Clark Elementary School.I have been living in Canada since 2017. It’s been a great experience so far. I inherited my love of teaching kids and education from my family. I have many family members who are principals/teachers back home.I believe that educating children will always be a part of my future because I enjoy spending time with them everyday.

I received my bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Naval State University in the Philippines in 2014. I recently earned my Educational Assistant Diploma with an Academic Distinction Award. In 2025, I plan to pursue an Early Learning and Childcare Certificate at Keyano College.

I have been working in the field since 2019. Having a connection with my kids and the way in which they motivate me to become a better educator and a better person in general is something that I absolutely adore. I enjoy encouraging children’s development and planning activities for them. I am surrounded by children, and seeing them grow and learn fills me with love and happiness.