MEET THE TEAM

HELEN FILIPE
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Helen Filipe, M.A. Education

Helen is the Founder and Executive Director of Azul Education Services. As Builder and Connecter she leads a team of Career Counsellors, Education Associates and Community Advocates dedicated to supporting individuals reach their highest career potential. She is committed to student success and advocating for accessibility and inclusion in education and workplaces. Helen is dedicated to work closely with students, families and community to ensure high school students are equipped to make informed career decisions and are hopeful for the future.

Helen has over 25 years experience in education, training, career development, academic advising, and program development. Helen has helped thousands of students and job seekers as they face career transitions, from secondary school to post-secondary, and as they progress in their career advancement. She has worked at Canada’s top schools, including the University of Toronto, Humber Institute for Technology and Advanced Learning, University of Guelph-Humber. On a contract basis, she has facilitated training sessions for provincial and federal departments, developed programs for social service agencies and delivered custom workshops and seminars for corporate clients.  Helen completed her Honours Bachelor of Arts in Ethics, Society in Law at the University of Toronto, and Master of Arts in Education from Central Michigan University. She is certified in Personality Dimensions and an Emotional Intelligence Facilitator.

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AZUL EDUCATION TEAM

Our Professional Staff have extensive knowledge of the school system, as well as advanced qualifications in Career Counselling, Academic Advising and Coaching. Our Team of Education Associates that act as college/university ambassadors for their program of study and the institution they attend. They are available to answer your questions about your program of choice, institutional culture, residence experience, residence vs. commuting, and much more.

Helen with Azul mug.jpg

EDUCATION ASSOCIATES

Team of Education Associates that act as college/university ambassadors for their program of study and the institution they attend. They are available to answer your questions about your program of choice, institutional culture, residence experience, residence vs. commuting, and much more.

 
4th year student

5th year student

ISABEL

Queens University - Concurrent Education: French and History

Isabel is in her fifth year at Queen’s University in the Concurrent Education program, with a History Major and a French Minor. She is in the Primary/Junior stream, qualifying to teach Grades Kindergarten to Six. She has always wanted to be a teacher and is passionate about working with children and educating others. At Queen’s, she is a member of the Kaleidoscope executive team, a club that works with at-risk youth and supports them in a classroom setting. She has thoroughly enjoyed her time at Queen’s in her program of choice, her first year in residence, community building, the opportunity to be in many clubs and volunteer. 

4th year student

5th year student

Kasthuri

Queen’s - Computer Engineering: Innovation Stream

Kasthuri is in her fifth year at Queen’s University in the Computer Engineering program. She is in the innovation stream and has completed additional commerce courses in entrepreneurship and innovation. Kasthuri is currently on internship at Procter and Gamble before heading back to finish her final year of school. At Queen’s University, Kasthuri joined the Queen’s Women in Science and Engineering (WiSE) Chapter, encouraging other young women in STEM. In the upcoming academic year, she will be holding the position of President for WiSE.

Alumni

Alumni

Sabina

UofT - Rotman Commerce: Economics and Strategy & Innovation

Sabina graduated from the University of Toronto Rotman Commerce degree. She completed a Major in Economics and specialized in Strategy & Innovation and International Business. At Rotman Commerce, Sabina found her community by getting involved in student groups, where she has met some incredible people. Sabina has experienced both the commuter and on-campus lifestyles of UofT, both of which have strengthened her love to be in the city. She is currently working at Mastercard as a Senior Analyst.

Masters Student

Masters Student

AILENE

Queen’s - Fine Arts and Religious Studies

Queen’s - Masters in Cultural Studies

Ailene is currently a Masters in Cultural Studies student at Queens University. Ailene completed her Fine Arts degree at Queen's University in the Fine Arts program. She specializes in textile sculpture and painting in her major in Fine Arts while incorporating her Minor in Religious Studies into the thematic elements of her work. At Queen’s, she found a home in the studio, in residence, and in Queen's Bands. Ailene is someone who fills their schedule to the max to fulfill her varied interests and she has met many other dedicated students and passionate young adults by doing so! She is proud to be a part of such a welcoming community and hopes others find the same sense of belonging in their future educational experiences.

Masters Student

Masters Student

KENNEDY

Western - HBSc Genetics and Microbiology & Immunology

Kennedy is in her fourth year of a BSc Honours Specialization in Genetics with a Minor in Microbiology and Immunology at Western University. She plans to attend graduate school to pursue a Masters in Genetics with a focus on the intersection between policy and genetic technology (DNA testing, CRISPR, etc.). At Western, she has been an orientation leader for first-year students in Ontario Hall and in the Faculty of Science. She has also had a number of roles on the residence council, faculty council, and department clubs all four years of her undergrad. This year, she is an elected member of the undergraduate student council to advocate on behalf of the 7,000+ science undergraduate students at Western University. 

Alumni

Alumni

ALEXANDRA

Queen’s - Film & Media and Music

Alexandra is a recent graduate of Queens University with a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Major in Film and Media and a Minor in Music. She also completed business courses and completed a Certificate in Business through the Smith School of Business. During her time at Queen's, she worked at CFRC 101.9FM, the world's longest-running campus radio station. Alexandra runs a news collective of volunteers, produces daily news segments that are broadcasted on air, and mentors people in journalism. She hopes to progress in the entertainment and broadcasting industry. She is currently the Manager of CFRC 101.9 radio station.

4th year student

4th year student

NOAH

Queen’s - Concurrent Education: Political Science and History

Noah is in his fourth year of the Concurrent Education program at Queen's University. He is studying a Double-Major in Political Science and History. He is in the Intermediate/Senior stream focusing his career on teaching students in grades seven to twelve. At Queen's, Noah is a part of the Queen's Kaleidoscope executive team, a club that works with at-risk youth to support them in a classroom setting. Noah provides extensive knowledge of academic opportunities for Queen's Arts/Sci and Education faculty. He would love to share insight on residence experience as well as the many academic and club opportunities you will discover at Queen's University.

Alumni

Alumni

SARAh

Queen’s - Computer Science: Cognitive Stream, Psychology and Linguistics

Sarah graduated from Queen’s University in the Computer Science program, in the Cognitive Science stream. Sarah took many psychology and linguistic courses throughout her undergrad. Sarah is passionate about understanding different components of the brain and how they relate to everyday function, decision making and speech patterns. Sarah is currently volunteering as a soccer coach in Kingston in the Queen’s Special Olympics chapter and is passionate about working with and supporting youth. 

4th year student

Alumni

MAX

Queen’s - Civil Engineering

Max is a proud graduate of the Civil Engineering program at Queen’s University. He completed his internship with Peter Kiewit and Sons, working on the third crossing bridge in Kingston. Max’s first year was spent studying and socializing with new friends while living on campus. In his second year, he volunteered as a mentor during orientation week and became a member of the Queen’s bridge-building team. In his third year, he held the position of the Director of Design for the Queen’s Engineering Society, where he oversaw all of the Queen’s design teams. Max’s numerous experiences and positions have allowed him to show his passion and knowledge in his engineering degree and field. He is currently working as a Design Coordinator at Kiewit.

Alumni

Alumni

LIZ

Queen’s - Civil Engineering

Liz graduated from Queen’s University in the Civil Engineering program. Liz has had many different experiences working in various civil engineering job positions. For two summers, she was a civil engineering private consultant and later worked with the government in the structural department, inspecting and replacing bridge rehabs. In her third year, Liz was the Construction Chair for the Queen’s Applied Science Formal where she was responsible for a team of managers who collectively designed and built a two-storey structure. Liz’s passion for the sciences has strengthened throughout her undergrad and due to her involvement in the strong engineering community at Queen’s. Liz is currently working with the Ministry of Transportation in their Leadership Development program.

Alumni

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4th year student

Alumni

BREANNA

Ryerson - RTA School of Media: Media Production

Breanna completed her Bachelor of Arts in Media Production from the Ryerson University RTA School of Media Production program. At Ryerson, Breanna took a variety of courses, especially covering different stages of the video production process. She has always been passionate about storytelling and contributing to the process of breathing life into a story. She is currently finalizing her thesis film, where she took on the roles of both art director and marketing lead, as well as other assistant director related tasks. Breanna has experienced the commuter lifestyle of Ryerson and is grateful for the networking opportunities and welcoming environment her program offers. She hopes to pursue a career in the film and television industry. Breanna is currently working as a Production Assistant at Salt and Light Media Foundation.

4th year student

Law student

Daniel

University of Windsor - Law

University of Detroit Mercy - Law

Daniel is currently a Law student in a dual program offered by University of Windsor and University of Detroit Mercy where he will complete two Law degrees, one from Canada, and the second from United States. Daniel is an alumni from Ryerson University in the Business Management program. Daniel completed a major in Law and Business and minor in Economics. He is actively pursuing law school after completing his undergraduate degree. Daniel aspires to be a Lawyer and is open to different specializations for now. Throughout Daniel’s undergrad, he worked part-time/full time in retail. Daniel has excelled in his undergrad program while balancing his work schedule, which allowed him to demonstrate his strong work ethic and enhance his time management skills.

4th year student

Alumni

ANDREW

Guelph-Humber - Business Administration: Finance

Andrew is an alumni from the University of Guelph-Humber in the Business Administration Program. Andrew completed a major in Finance and is pursuing his CFA designation. Andrew received an Honours Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Guelph, and a Diploma of Business Administration with a specialization in Finance from Humber College. While at University, Andrew was an executive member of the Finance Club and a member of the Consulting Association. Throughout his undergrad, Andrew has worked part-time in retail and as a soccer coach. However, in the summers, Andrew has interned at Nestle, Just Energy, and Kraft Heinz, gaining experience in roles like accounting, customer service, and finance. Andrew is currently working at Kraft Heinz in a full-time position as a Financial Analyst.

2nd year student

3rd year student

VICTORIA

Wilfred Laurier - Business Administration: Marketing and Economics

Victoria is in her third year at Wilfred Laurier University in the Business Administration program. She is pursuing a Specialization in Marketing with a Minor in Economics. At Laurier, Victoria is on the executive team as Vice President of Events for the Because I am A Girl club, which is a club that promotes equality for women and advancing children’s rights around the globe. She is also on the executive team in the role of Head of Marketing for the Events for Charity group, which is a philanthropy group that works to raise money and support for the Sick Kids Foundation. Additionally, she has gained valuable marketing experience in her summer positions as a Marketing Representative. Victoria has enjoyed her time at Laurier, has greatly enjoyed various opportunities at her school and in her program, and is looking forward to what is ahead.

3rd year student

4th year student

KIRPA

Guelph - Biomedical Toxicology: Biomedical Sciences

Kirpa is in her fourth year at the University of Guelph in the Biomedical Toxicology program. She recently transferred to this program from Biomedical Sciences, as she discovered her true passion later in her degree. When she graduates, Kirpa hopes to pursue a career in science, at the intersection of human and environmental health. At Guelph, Kirpa is an athlete on the varsity rowing team. She is also a peer mentor for first-year students at the university and is involved in many other clubs and initiatives. Kirpa loves the atmosphere of her university and hopes to share her experiences as a Guelph Gryphon with potential new students.

4th year student

Masters student

Breanna

Western - Health Sciences

Breanna is currently a Masters student at Western University. Breanna is also a proud alumni from Western University with a Honours Specialization degree in Health Sciences. She chose a general module rather than selecting one of the other 4 areas of study offered in the BHSc program in order to develop a holistic perspective of health. In doing this, she has been able to take courses with focuses ranging from mental health and health management, to rehabilitation sciences and more. At Western, she volunteered as an English Conversation Program Facilitator through the International and Exchange Student Centre, and as a orientation leader (“Soph”) assisting first year students in their transition to university. She has become familiar with many resources and activities available on campus such as wellness resources, intramurals, and student governance.

3rd year student

4th year student

Sam

Guelph - Animal Biology, Nutrition and Nutraceutical Sciences

Sam is in her fourth year at the University of Guelph pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree, majoring in Animal Biology and minoring in Nutrition and Nutraceutical Sciences. Sam decided to pursue a minor because she has always been passionate about nutrition. Her plans are to apply to the Ontario Veterinary College at Guelph after her undergrad to become a veterinarian. Sam has gained experience with animals by shadowing various veterinarians and working on small farms. In addition, Sam is a high-performance athlete in sprint kayaking. Her many years of intense training has taught her valuable leadership and professional skills. These skills helped her excel in her program by having a strong work ethic and proper dedication. Her love for animals has only grown by studying at Guelph because it is a program that is tailored to all her passions. She is currently working part-time as a Dairy Farmer.

4th year student

Masters student

VIctoria

Guelph-Humber - Justice Studies

Victoria is completing her Masters of Arts in Public Policy and Administration at Ryerson University. She is alumni from University of Guelph-Humber with a major in Justice Studies and a specialization in Community and Justice Services. Upon graduation, Victoria planned to obtain a Masters degree in Public Policy and Administration. Victoria is pursuing a career in Public Service with the provincial government as an expert in policy development and implementation. Throughout her time at the University of Guelph-Humber, Victoria has been a part of the International Criminal Justice Honour Society, Alpha Phi Sigma. Furthermore, she has actively gained experience through her diligent involvement with the Ministry of Attorney General as a Probation Officer and with the organization, Ability Online, as a peer mentor.

2nd year student

3rd year student

Chris

Waterloo - Mechatronics Engineering

Chris is in his 3rd year Mechatronics Engineering student at the University of Waterloo. He completed his second co-op at Ford Motor Company as an Embedded Software Developer where he was working on the next generation of infotainment systems of Ford vehicles. His previous co-op experience was in a Mechanical Engineering role at Almag Aluminum company. His program is very interdisciplinary as it covers topics from students in Mechanical, Electrical/ Computer Engineering, and Computer Science - with a focus on robotics and embedded systems. Chris is a member of Waterloo's leading autonomous vehicles team, Watonomous, in which they compete in the SAE Autodrive Challenge. He is on the Sensor Interfacing Team where he is working on driver code for their vehicles LiDARs. He is super passionate about full-stack development and robotics.

3rd year student

3rd year student

Madison

Guelph - Biomedical Student

Madison is in her third year at the University of Guelph as a biomedical student. She also attends the University of Windsor part-time to fulfill class requirements for her major. Currently, she is a volunteer with Best Buddies, an organization dedicated to helping people with special needs by providing them with a friend to talk to. Madison has also been involved on a flag football intramural team. Additionally, Madison has volunteered over 200 hours at Wind Reach Farm, a local non-profit organization aiding people with disabilities a place to interact with nature and animals. Some of her hobbies include soccer, reading and horseback riding. As a first-year university student, she found it difficult to find her groove, but as the years have continued, her marks have increased every year. Looking towards the future, her goal is to write the OAT aptitude test and to hopefully attend the University of Waterloo to become an Optometrist.  Madison is eager to help students ease their transition from high school to university. 

Alumni

Alumni

Syed

Sheridan - Information Systems Security: Cyber Security

Syed is a Sheridan College alumnus that completed the Bachelor of Information Systems Security: Cyber Security program. He also completed his internship as a Security Coordinator. He is now working as an Information Security Consultant at a major bank. In high school, Syed was unsure what schools to apply to. Everyone close to him was advising him to pursue an education in science and eventually go into the medical field. Instead, he followed his passion for technology and computers and discovered that Sheridan College is one of the only schools in Canada that offers a bachelor’s degree in Cyber Security, with excellent courses that teach skills that can be applied in the Cyber Security workplace. In addition to being an Information Security Enthusiast, Syed wants to mentor a younger generation and help those who are interested in the Cyber Security professional world. He is always willing to learn new skills and support others at the same time. Syed now has a growing interest in finance and digital marketing.

Master’s student

Master’s student

Emma

UofT - MSc Occupational Science and Therapy, Ryerson - Early Childhood Studies and Psychology

Emma is a current MSc student in the Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy at the University of Toronto. She completed her Honours Bachelor of Arts at Ryerson University with a major in Early Childhood Studies and a minor in Psychology. Emma has had numerous experiences working with children with dis/abilities in a variety of settings for the past 6 years in her placement, volunteer and work opportunities. She is currently completing a research project exploring the safe transportation of children with physical disabilities under the supervision of registered occupational therapists, Sarah Davidson and Rebecca Vanderburgh, and research scientists, Drs. Amy McPherson and Timothy Ross. Emma is passionate about exploring the experiences of children with disabilities and hopes that her research contributions can inform advancements in pediatric occupational therapy practice.

Post-Graduate student

Post-Graduate student

LAUREN

Ryerson - Health Services Management Certificate, Laurier - Bachelor of Arts

Lauren is a Wilfred Laurier University alumnus that completed her Bachelor of Arts, with courses in Biology, Chemistry, Calculus, Economics, and Psychology. While at Laurier, Lauren enjoyed participating in the note-taking club where she helped other students in the same courses prepare for exams with thorough and organized notes. This helped her prepare for her exams and helped others succeed at the same time. Living on residence enabled Lauren to focus on her organization skills and time management. Lauren also volunteered with a number of community services, including the Abbey Cat Rescue Services, The Compass Food Bank and various veterinary clinics. After graduation, Lauren enrolled in the Health Services Management Certificate from the Ryerson Chang School of Continuing Education. Her future plans include pursuing her Master of Science Management. 

2nd year student

2nd year student

Keisha

Western - Economics

Keisha is in her second year at Western University pursuing her studies in Economics. The program provides her with the opportunity to focus on the specialization and the ability to take courses in other areas of study that she is interested in exploring. These range from political science to sociology to music. She is passionate about community outreach and has been volunteering with various clubs. Keisha has held leadership positions in Pinterest 4 Poverty, a club that raises money for a women and children’s shelter, and currently holds the position of Vice President of Administration. Additionally, she was on her faculty’s Charity Committee helping students get involved in the London community. Keisha has gained valuable business experience through her internships at major financial institutions. Being at Western has made every step of university very enjoyable and meaningful for her.

3rd year student

3rd year student

AllmA

Guelph - Bio-Medical Sciences, Nutrition and Nutraceutical Sciences

Allma is in her third year at the University of Guelph. She is pursuing a Bachelor of Sciences with a major in Bio-Medical Sciences and a minor in Nutrition and Nutraceutical Sciences. Allma has a passion for learning about health, healthy living and improvement. After graduation, she plans to pursue a master's degree in the Human Health & Nutritional Sciences program at Guelph. She volunteers weekly at St. Joseph's Health Centre with the recreational therapy department and is a member of the Muslim Student Association on Campus. As a first-generation student, Allma understands the stress and anxiety when considering a post-secondary school, so she is excited to help other students in the same position. Allma has loved her experience at the University of Guelph and can't wait to help other students transition into post-secondary school!

3rd year student

3rd year student

Ratul

Guelph - Biochemistry

Ratul is in his third year at the University of Guelph majoring in Biochemistry. Ratul has spent countless hours in various biochemistry and microbiology labs performing bacterial genetic modifications and analytics for protein purifications. His plans for post-grad are to either pursue a Masters and Ph.D. in order to become a professor or to attend medical school in hopes of becoming a surgical oncologist. In addition to academics, this is his second year serving as the captain of the Gryphon Varsity tennis team, and third-year playing for the team overall. The team has had the privilege of competing with various other schools in the OUA. Ratul has been a high-performance tennis player since a young age which has sharpened his time-management skills and dedication to allow him to balance his academics and sports commitments alike.

1st year student

1st year student

Jenna

Ontario Tech University - Nursing, Durham College - Pre-Health Science

Jenna is in her first year at Ontario Tech University in the Bachelor of Science and Nursing program. Previously, Jenna graduated from Durham College in Pre-Health Science. Jenna is involved in volunteering at Windreach Farm, a non-profit organization structured to allow people with disabilities the chance to interact with animals, where she has had the chance to volunteer since grade 9. Also, she is working at a company called Senior Helpers, where she assists people who need help with their day-to-day living. Jenna enjoys horseback riding, soccer and badminton. Jenna is excited to answer any questions regarding the transition from high school to university, as well as any nursing questions!

4th year student

4th year student

Christina

Queen’s - Commerce

Christina is in her fourth year at Queen’s University, pursuing a Bachelor of Commerce at Smith School of Business. She is primarily focusing her studies on marketing and sales. During her time at Queen’s, she has participated in various extracurricular activities as a dance instructor and the Human Resources Director for Queen’s Dance Club. Christina has received three summer internships at Toronto-Dominion Canada Trust and Counter Tax Lawyers. She has successfully completed business case studies, individual and team projects, and received valuable skills and experience that can be translated to her future career endeavours. She will be graduating in Spring 2021 and aims to seek a full-time position in marketing, sales, or project management.

Alumni

Alumni

Davene

Nottingham Trent - MA in Sociology

Davene is a recent graduate with a Master’s in Arts in Sociology from Nottingham Trent University, in Nottingham, England. Before that, she completed her Bachelor of Science in Information Technology at the University College of the Caribbean. She is a life-long learner and has also completed a number of additional qualifications, including a Certificate in Supervisory Management and a Diploma in Secondary Education. Her qualifications have enabled her to have a number of teaching, counselling and administrative experiences in the education industry in both secondary and post-secondary schools. Davene has a passion for working with young people and is on a course to secure her provincial counselling licensure so that she can continue to fulfill her life-long passion of impacting youths to be the best versions of themselves.

2nd year student

Hannah

Sheridan College  - Bachelor of Film and Television

Hannah is in her second year at Sheridan College in the Bachelor of Film and Television program. She has increased various skills in video editing and hopes to focus on directing and camera operating during the rest of her time at Sheridan. Hannah is passionate about her love for film and thoroughly enjoys her time at Sheridan College. She also did a first year at Wilfrid Laurier University and from that first year developed important organization and communication skills. Some of her hobbies include reading, hanging out with her cat, and of course watching movies in her spare time. Hannah is eager to work with students to help them choose the right post-secondary school for them. 

Azul Education Services Associate

Alumni

Khadija

Rotman - MBA and

UofT Bachelor of Science

Khadija is a graduate of the Rotman School of Management MBA program and holds a Bachelors of Science from the University of Toronto. During her MBA program, Khadija specialized in learning international business strategy. She is passionate about solving complex business problems and bringing innovative ideas to life. Khadija is a sales and marketing business professional working in the healthcare and life sciences industry for nearly a decade. She currently works at Johnson & Johnson in their Immunology department and has a passion for teaching, coaching, and mentoring.