Valerie's Story

When I first arrived in Canada, my goal was simply to find a job and begin building my life in a new country. Three weeks later, I was offered a Team Leader position. As a full-time student, balancing school and work wasn’t always easy, but the leadership team saw my dedication and chose to invest in me.

Since then, I’ve continued to grow as a leader and become someone my peers can rely on. I strive to balance the needs of the team with the needs of the restaurant, maintain high morale, understand my colleagues, and contribute to daily operational improvements. I lead from the front, not from the background, and when I commit to something, my word is my bond.

I’m proud of my journey from joining as a team member to becoming a manager — a growth path that reflects resilience, consistency, and a willingness to learn. From the beginning, I felt welcomed and valued as part of the community, and that sense of belonging motivates me to keep growing, support others, and make a positive impact every day.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time at the gym or listening to music at home, which keeps me grounded and energized.