Meet Alex Hayer and Theresa Gebrail

Meet Alex Hayer and Theresa Gebrail

On November 20th, Alex Hayer and Theresa Gebrail joined WJS Canada. Alex is Project Manager, and Theresa holds the pen as Communications Specialist. They’re both based in Maple Ridge, and in fact, are in adjoining offices where they carry on conversations through the wall.

Alex Hayer

Q: What do you think makes WJS different from other organizations?

A: One of the unique characteristics of WJS, is its expansive presence across Canada. This expansiveness brings with it a diversity of experience which is a key strength that not all organizations possess. It’s, in part, this strength that makes WJS successful.

Q: Why did you want to work with WJS Canada?

A: I wanted to work with WJS because of the people. WJS has great people employed throughout the entire organization. I have seen this time and time again, through my past experiences working with WJS. Everyone is focused on delivering excellent quality of care to the individuals that we support, and for me, this is what makes an organization successful.

Q: What’s the most important part of your role?

A: Connecting people and listening to them is a key part of my role. This will enable me to build highly effective teams system wide, to continue to enhance the quality of service for the individuals, their families and the communities we serve.

Q: Will you share something about you that we may not already know?

A: I have a cute, less than 3 pound, hypoallergenic, fuzzy, toy poodle named Skye. My wife and I received her as a wedding present, with only 24 hours notice. We quite love her, despite the steep learning curve and the odd looks I get on the street when I am walking her.

Q: Tell us about your obsession with coffee.

A: What? Doesn’t everyone love coffee?

Theresa Gebrail

Q: Why did you want to work with WJS Canada?

A: I’ve always loved working in the social purpose sector. There’s a real beauty and inspiration in being able to sit with someone and listen to their story and then share it. I find the people who choose to work in this sector to be genuinely hopeful, optimistic, authentic, and compassionate people, and those are the people I like to hang out with.

Q: What’s the most important part of your role?

A: The big challenge for me will be to bring a cohesive and consistent voice to WJS’s brand. WJS has not had a dedicated communications person before – like many organizations, communications was done off the side of different desks. WJS Canada is full of wonderful people living interesting and unique lives. The best part is holding space for people to share their experiences and stories in a way that is meaningful to them and to the organization.

Q: Will you share something about you that we may not already know?

A: I am writing a graphic novel. Problem is I can’t draw! Anyone know a good artist?

Q: Tell us about your obsession with tea.

A: What’s not to love? It’s the perfect accompaniment to sympathy, shortbread, and scandal.