Our Story…
Tanya Maldonado, CFP, MBA.
Co-Founder
Tanya, a first generation immigrant from South America, is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP™) with two degrees in Business Administration, specializing in Finance, and a Master’s Degree in Finance from the University of Alberta.
With a combined experience of 22 years of experience in Finance and a post-secondary education in in Canada, Tanya has had the privilege of interacting with thousands of immigrants and international students. Her own journey as an international student and immigrant has given her profound empathy and insight into their challenges.
Drawing from her personal experiences navigating immigration hurdles, Tanya founded Elite Skills Canada to help others overcome the three main obstacles of immigration: language barriers, the complexities of immigration law, credential validation and access to funds.
Jonathan McBride, PMP
Co-Founder
Jonathan is a seasoned manager with almost two decades of experience in hiring and collaborating with immigrants. Throughout his career, he has recognized the value of skilled professionals from diverse backgrounds and the wealth of knowledge and experience they contribute to the labor force.
Having witnessed firsthand the challenges and obstacles that immigrants face in obtaining fair compensation for their expertise, Jonathan was inspired to establish Elie Skills Canada. This initiative aims to empower immigrants by providing them with the tools and resources needed to validate their skills, thereby enabling them to unlock their full potential and secure equitable compensation for their contributions.
Jonathan's dedication to supporting and advocating for the professional development of immigrants shines through his work with Elie Skills Canada, emphasizing his commitment to fostering inclusivity and diversity in the workplace.
Jess Latimer, B.Eng.
Co-Founder
Jess is a highly skilled software engineer with extensive expertise in managing and executing upscale projects. Over the years, she has showcased her technical prowess and innovative mindset by contributing to the launch of multiple successful startups. Her hands-on experience in developing cutting-edge solutions has established her as a key player in the tech industry.
Driven by her passion for technology and her commitment to social impact, Jess co-founded Elite Skills Canada. She recognized the challenges that immigrants face in accessing state-of-the-art technology and up-to-date information necessary for a seamless transition to Canada. Through Elite Skills Canada, Jess aims to empower immigrants by providing them with the resources and support they need to maximize their potential and integrate smoothly into the Canadian workforce. Her dedication to fostering inclusivity and innovation underscores her mission to make a tangible difference in the lives of many.