Mission & Values
Ignite’s mission is to lead integrated economic development growth through diverse initiatives that create an environment for our region and businesses to be successful. Through our diverse programming and service brands, our region will be the preferred location for entrepreneurs and businesses to launch, locate and grow. If that’s something you can get behind, consider working with us!
Our team members are:
• Committed – to our vision, mission, goals, partners, and our team
• Adaptable – to a changing environment and priorities
• Creative – to look for improvements and better ways to do our work
• Inclusive – to be open and supportive of people and ideas
• Trustworthy – to always be transparent, reliable, being a constant compass (Trustworthy >/= Honest)
Meet the Team
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Could this be you?
Sarah Corey Hollohan – CEO
What is the best advice you have ever been given?
Always take the high road, don’t let small obstacles derail you from the bigger goal. No matter the goal, stay true to yourself and your values. Everyone deserves your time and your kindness; treat every person with respect and consideration.
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
I love economic development. What I love about it is that traditionally, it’s people focused. No matter how far removed I get from clients, my job still means seeing people succeed in their commitment to their community’s day over day. That is very energizing.
What inspires you?
A challenge, complex problem, people, the big plan. I’m a big fan of strategic planning and thinking, modelling, and measuring impact.
What in work or in life are you particularly proud of? I am proud of the relationships I have built over my career. I value these relationships/partnerships and being able to walk into a room and have meaningful conversations. Communication is essential.
How do you spend your time outside of the office?
Outside of the office I enjoy reading, spending time with my family and friends. Between leadership books and fiction, I probably have four books on the go at any given time. When it comes to family, I am very focused on making sure my daughter has the experiences that will give her a positive, empowered perspective on the world.
Nausheen Ali – Director Workforce Development & Attraction
What is the best advice you have ever been given?
Let go of what is out of reach, and focus on what is achievable. No matter how far you go or how hard you try, there will always be something that you leave behind. Success, if achieved at the cost of one's health, family or happiness, doesn't carry the same flavour.
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
The fact that I am able to make a difference in someone's life, both directly and indirectly.
Do you have a favourite inspirational quote?
“Whatever happens in your life, no matter how troubling things might seem, do not enter the neighbourhood of despair. Even when all doors remain closed, God will open up a new path only for you. Be thankful! It is easy to be thankful when all is well. A Sufi is thankful not only for what he has been given but also for all that he has been denied" - from 40 Rules of Love, Elif Shafak.
What in work or in life are you particularly proud of?
I feel proud whenever my children receive distinctions for their activities, I feel proud whenever any family member achieves a goal. Similarly, I feel proud when we achieve our goals at work and when my team feels accomplished on their jobs.
How do you spend your time outside the office?
I am an avid reader of fiction and Vice Chair of the Fredericton Public Library board. In my spare time, I am also a licensed financial advisor. I enjoy cooking. My kids tell me that my mood of the day is reflected in whatever I cook. If I'm angry, I tend to make the food spicy. If I'm relaxed, I make dessert or comfort foods. If I'm anxious or stressed, I normally mess up the recipes. This way my family knows when to not mess with me :) I've been told that I sing beautifully by people who've overheard me (the idea of singing publicly terrifies me). I love to dance as well but never got to learn a specific genre until now. I've recently signed up to learn salsa and jazz.
Doyin Somorin – Manager Integration & Retention
What is the best advice you’ve ever been given?
I once was told to not allow my past experiences to steal my present. I should rather dwell on the things that make me feel good and alive because if I do, I can go out to change the world.
Do you have a favourite inspirational quote?
“Whatever it is, and no matter how long has passed since you made the commitment to start something, the best time to do it is NOW! As such, when the fear of failure or the unknown starts to creep in.... just do it!”
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
I am passionate about helping immigrants succeed because I have experienced the realities and challenges of being an immigrant in this region. I am happy to be in a role that helps international students, and immigrants thrive and succeed in Fredericton. I support them through their transition in Canada and empower them with various tools and resources, training, programs, and experience, to propel them to success and thereby enrich our community.
What in work or in life are you most proud of?
Since joining the Ignite team in 2021, I have implemented several immigration initiatives for immigrants and support programs for immigrant women and international students. The programs have already proved successful, and demand has been strong as they offer both the skills and connections needed to find success in Canada. Also, I recognize the importance of diversity to Fredericton's future growth. I am proud of helping newcomers, international students, and established immigrants find the community resources they need here in Fredericton, and I am proud to call Fredericton my home.
How do you spend your time outside the office?
I love to read, volunteer, cook, and dance.
Andrea Escober - Integration & Retention Coordinator
What is the best advice you’ve ever been given?
Do not leave for tomorrow what can be done today! Every day is a new beginning and an opportunity to thrive.
Do you have a favourite inspirational quote?
I am inspired by sustainable goals and individuals who are resilient in pursuing them. I strongly believe persistence is key to success! My mother was my first role model and I have learned from her that succeeding is about lifting each other, creating an impact with acts of kindness, and not being afraid of failure. Sustainable goals not only require consistent advocacy and work but also empathy and a will to build a better world. My favourite quote is by David Bowie: "Tomorrow belongs who does who can see it coming."
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
I decided to join Ignite since I am driven by sustainable growth! I believe each one of these departments is committed to making New Brunswick a place where we can foster and continue both social and economic growth. Ignite envisions reaching the welfare of the province through economic growth and it resonates with my passions and long-term goals
What in work or life are you most proud of?
My family in Honduras has also been driven to help communities in need at home. We were always trying to find means to help families in need by donating food, clothing, furniture, or any home item yearly. Last year, I was able to convince my mother to found our not-for-profit organization and we founded "Ayudame y Ayudas." I am beyond happy to be one of the founding members of this organization and to also have been part of our first medical brigade for a Nursing home! Check out the website: https://www.fundacionayudameyayudas.com/blank
How do you spend your time outside the office?
Art appreciation is genuinely one of the things I am beyond happy I learned from my grandparents! I enjoy visiting galleries, listening to live music, going to plays, and assisting in expositions in which art is celebrated! I also paint and cook as a hobby.
Sarah Caissie - Capital Region Integration Network (CRIN) Project Specialist
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Don’t limit yourself based on other people's expectations or timelines. We all have our journeys and lessons to be learned along the way, and it's important to acknowledge that not every path is the same.
What inspires you?
I am inspired by resiliency, whether from an individual or community perspective. It is easy to become overwhelmed by all of the negative things in our world. But there's also so much strength, knowledge, beauty, and hope. If we change the narrative and lift those voices, listen, share, and collaborate with open hearts and open minds, we can start to see real change.
Do you have a favourite inspirational quote?
“The universe does not have laws. It has habits. And habits can be broken.” - Tom Robbins
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
I am a people person, and I love getting to know people, hearing their stories, and learning from their experiences. I am also a helper by nature, and through those stories and connections, I try to address people's needs whether by linking people to services and supports or by advocating for creative, collaborative solutions to gaps in our community.
What in work or life are you most proud of?
I am proud of the fact that I try to make the most out of any situation. For example, while in school I had to do a practicum in a housing program for at-risk youth. This was not the area/setting of youth work that I ever saw myself working in, but since that was the specification for the placement, I chose to be open to the experience. I quickly learned that it was a great fit for me, and it led to a 15-year career working with homeless and at-risk youth. I learned a lot from that experience, not only by developing professional skills and networks but also through personal growth and introducing me to people with whom I have developed lifelong friendships.
How do you spend your time outside the office? I love music, especially seeing live music in a festival context, and have traveled to various festivals over the last eight years, while also reveling in the fact that we have such an incredible festival right here in Fredericton.
Juan Diego Rivas - Capital Region Integration Network Coordinator
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Always remember where you come from. My Father taught me that no matter how successful I become, there is always room from growth. Humility, kindness and compassion is what helps us make ourselves and the world better.
What inspires you?
I would say that I draw my inspiration from my parents. My parents have had to make several sacrifices and overcome many obstacles throughout their careers. They are an example of strength, courage and resilience. Seeing them accomplish so much in spite of the circumstances has taught me that no obstacle is too big. That is the kind of energy that I look forward to bring to the team and our efforts.
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
What keeps me motivated is knowing the impact of the work that I am doing. When I came to Canada, I experienced different challenges as an international student. Being able to share the knowledge and experiences that I have acquired to help future newcomers is something that I very much enjoy doing. It allows me to give back to the community that saw me grow as a professional and help people that come to succeed, just as I have.
What in work or in life are you most proud of?
Graduating from university is one of my proudest moments. It was quite the challenge due to different circumstances. However, I took a page out my parents' book and was able to succeed.
How do you spend your time outside the office?
I love playing videogames on my spare time! I grew up doing so and never stopped.
Aman Chawla – Workforce Development Coordinator
What is the best advice you’ve ever been given?
Remain true to the basics - Discipline, Hard work and Integrity. Success will come as a byproduct.
Do you have a favourite inspirational quote?
My grandparents were freedom fighters and fought for India's independence. Theirs's grit, sheer determination, the way they rose from ashes like a phoenix after loosing everything inspires me. It makes me tackle challenges with ease.
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
I am so thrilled to join the Ignite team where I can create a bigger impact towards the society. The feeling is surreal as just few weeks back I wanted to join the Connectors program and now I will be part of the team handling the same.
What in work or in life are you most proud of?
I am proud to be a Navy veteran, having served more than 14 years of my prime youth towards protecting the sovereignty of my native country India.
How do you spend your time outside the office?
I am a Certified Scuba Diver (PADI) and trained in Salsa. When I am not working, I spend quality time with my wife and son, travelling to new places, exploring and cherishing the basics of life !
Adrian Witt – Director of Business Growth & Workforce Development | Western NB Region
What is the best advice you’ve ever been given?
"Be yourself, work hard and the rewards will come".
Do you have a favourite inspirational quote?
"Yesterday is but today's memory, and tomorrow is today's dream".
What in work or in life are you most proud of?
Although I have a diverse background and experience, running my own consulting company for 20 years has allowed me to work with, and for a variety of companies in a variety of industries.
How do you spend your time outside the office?
In addition to being a coach in a variety of sports for many years, I also have a passion for dog obedience , and protection services training.
Julie Williams – Business Development Officer | Western NB Region
What is the best advice you’ve ever been given?
Work hard, Be Kind and Have fun. In all things.
Do you have a favourite inspirational quote?
Maya Angelou was one of my favorite authors and poets. “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
I love to help people, I believe in entrepreneurship and working hard, and I love New Brunswick and want to help it grow and flourish.
What in work or in life are you most proud of?
Owning my own café, Julie's Kitchen, it was always a dream and I was very proud of it.
Fun Fact about you?
I've always been obsessed with Italy, the food, the language and bucket list, I will travel there one day!!!
Amy Lawson – Integration & Retention Coordinator | Western NB Region
What is the best advice you’ve ever been given?
Believe in yourself so much, that the universe has no choice but to deliver.
What inspires you?
Small changes- achieve big results.
What motivates you in your roll at Ignite?
I genuinely enjoy helping others make their dreams come true. It is very fulfilling to see others proud of themselves for doing something they didn't think they could ever do.
What in work or life are you most proud of?
No specific event or situation. I am proud of my attitude, I know I will never give up on myself. I am able to reassess a situation and change my mind or expectations, but I never give up because something is too difficult.
Fun Fact about you?
I am a shy and somewhat reserved person but, I will try any thing once. My favorite thing is when I meet a new person and they ask me to join them in doing something that they love, that I have never done. I love when people share the things they are passionate about. Invite me and teach me something new, I love it.
Alicia Nicholson- Business Development Officer | Western NB Region
What is the best advice you’ve ever been given?
Risk more than others think is safe. Dream more than others think is practical.
What inspires you?
Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.
What motivates you in your roll at Ignite?
I have a passion for helping local businesses and entrepreneurs. What motivated me to apply for the role of Business Development Officer stems from my passion for forging meaningful connections and driving growth. Throughout my career, I've been drawn to opportunities where I can leverage my skills to make a tangible impact, both for the organization and its clientele.
What in work or life are you most proud of?
Successfully acquiring the B-Corp certification for my business Upfront Cosmetics is the accomplishment I am most proud of.
Fun Fact about you?
A unique fact about me is that I have a love for all things outdoors!
Andrew Lockhart – Director of Entrepreneurial & Economic Growth
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
Everybody plays a role in economic development, no matter what their profession or life path. The work we put into our community, our economy, directly affects following generations. My role as a father goes hand in hand with my profession, I will be handing this community to my children some day.
What in work or in life are you most proud of?
About 20 years ago, my father bought land in hopes to one day build a camp he can share with his family. I spent many days with my father, sleeping in a tent, in the middle of the woods. Throughout the years, I helped my father build the camp that now stands on that property. Something 20 years ago that seemed like a large feat, my father (and a bit of me) accomplished.
What’s a little-known fact about you?
I own a kilt that was passed down to me by my grandfather. It has the Lockhart family tartan.
Ori Cordido – Manager of Entrepreneurial Services
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
“There is no elevator to success you need to take the stairs.” I love this quote because it is the essence of being an entrepreneur. You need to work hard and go through every step of the process in order to reach your goal and be innovative.
What inspires you?
Impact. If it's not going to do something good why bother? I love working with people and on businesses that are creating an impact in their community. It can be social, environmental or economic impact! Love to do things with a purpose.
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
I love meeting new people but I also love being part of a clients journey who is building their business from the ground up! Since I was exposed to entrepreneurship when I arrived to Canada I haven't been able to imagine myself doing something not in the Startup ecosystem.
What in work or in life are you most proud of?
Making Canada my home is a big highlight! But I will say that I am most proud of the community I am a part of. I love discussing ideas and being in a welcoming community.
What’s a little-known fact about you?
Canada Day is my favourite holiday! I am a newcomer to Canada and I have fallen in love with this country
Hannahbelle Weaver – Business Development Officer
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Everything comes to you at the right time, be patient.
What inspires you?
"Our prime purpose in this life is to help others." - His Holiness the Dalai Lama
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
Seeing people reach their fullest potential and being able to give back to the community.
What in work or in life are you most proud of?
I've done a lot of volunteer work internationally, which has helped me to make lifelong friendships with amazing people all across the world.
What’s a little-known fact about you?
I paint in my free time and display my pieces at local shows!
Sofia Urrea Castillo – Business Development Officer
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
You will find obstacles in life, find a way. There is always a way to figure out stressful situations, just do not let stress paralyze you, use it to be productive.
What inspires you?
People working hard on something they believe in. The drive that working for a cause or project you believe in gives you is amazing and powerful.
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
I believe in the work Ignite does. Not only it can inspire and have an impact on the businesses and the team, but the whole community.
What in work or in life are you most proud of?
Leaving Colombia to come to Canada. Moving abroad brings many personal and professional obstacles. It is a struggle that all immigrants can relate to doing it alone when you are young adds to the pressure. Working hard and taking it one day at a time have been the key for me to overcome obstacles in my journey.
What’s a little-known fact about you?
I am a very positive person, I find joy in the little things in life and think of each day as an opportunity to do something new.
Mikala Watson – Business Development Officer
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?
To recognize and be at peace with letting go of situations/environments/people that no longer serve you.
What inspires you?
I'm constantly inspired both by those around me and my environment. One of my favorite quotes would have to be "I sit before flowers hoping they will train me in the art of opening up. I stand on mountain tops believing that avalanches will teach me to let go. I know nothing...but I am here to learn"
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
Understanding that I’m in a role that is deeply impactful to our communities and their growth is paramount. Supporting our local businesses to create real economic change is incredibly impactful. The passion that our clients bring to their business energizes me to bring that same passion in supporting their business growth and their goals.
What in work or in life are you most proud of?
One of the aspects in both my professional work and personal life that I take immense pride in is the ability to adapt and learn continuously. I have faced various challenges and opportunities throughout my life, each serving as a platform for growth. The ability to adapt and learn continuously; paired with my motivation to positively impact the lives of those around me is what I consider to be my greatest achievement in both work and life.
What’s a little-known fact about you?
I listen to every kind of music, if I'm the DJ, get ready to listen to it all!
Tara Leavitt – Operations Manager | Planet Hatch
What’s the best advice you were ever given?
In relationships of all kinds, communication is key, know when to pause but don't ever stop talking.
What inspires you?
Genuine people and hard work.
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
The people: I have the best job! I work alongside entrepreneurs every day in a space that breathes great energy. There is nobody more motivated, driven or has more grit than an entrepreneur and when you mix that with the genuine support in our region…magic happens and that’s a space I want to be in!
What in work or in life are you most proud of?
That's easy. I'm most proud of my family, who taught me that if I want something bad enough, I have the strength and commitment to do it.
Tell us something about you that no one knows:
Galloping on a horse in a big open field is my favourite thing ever!
Paula Lehr – Director of Marketing & Communications
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
The number one reason people give up so fast is because they tend to look at how far they still have to go instead of how far they have come. But it's a series of small wins that can give us the most significant success.
What inspires you?
Connection and passion. For me, fulfillment in my work and personal life comes from seeing impact. “People with great passion can make the impossible happen.” - Anonymous
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
I love storytelling and creating inspirational ways for people to make a connection that relates to their life. The marketing & communications team contributes to the customer experience at Ignite through effective campaigns that inspire and result in a connection or a lesson learned.
What in work or in life are you most proud of?
During my time as a Downtown Revitalization Coordinator in Collingwood, Ontario, there were several initiatives launched that, today, are still going strong! Those initiatives continue to support a vibrant and accessible downtown core which allows for artists, entrepreneurs and small businesses grow and thrive.
What’s a little-known fact about you?
I am a champion for veteran and first responder causes and volunteer my time/expertise to support them. In my spare time, I am outside: you will find me on the water, on my motorcycle/snowmobile, or enjoying life with my partner Dave and Lily our Golden Retriever. Five years ago, my partner and I decided to set off on an east coast adventure and we haven’t looked back!
Julia Pazzano - Marketing & Communications Specialist
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?
Every mistake is an opportunity for growth.
What inspires you?
My grandfather loved to tinker. If he didn't know how to do something, he taught himself through trial and error. He accomplished so much in his lifetime and never let anything get in his way. His memory is what inspires me to always be creative, think outside the box, and try new things.
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
Working with entrepreneurs is amazing because they are all resourceful and innovative. Running a business means facing problems head on and working hard to find solutions to your problems. In my work, I am able to support so many different entrepreneurs alongside my coworkers. Knowing that I'm helping to support these businesses that are improving our region and making it a great place to live is what motivates me in my work.
How do you like to spend time outside the office?
I am an avid reader and love to explore different worlds of fiction.
Rey Cascante - Marketing & Communications Coordinator
What is the best advice you have ever been given?
I think the best advice I have put to good use is “Be familiar with what makes you nervous and use it to your advantage”. Sometimes we get stuck or are terrified of what might happen but using those strong feelings to succeed through any situation has always worked out for my journey.
What inspires you?
All the people and situations that have led me to become the person I am today have shown kindness as the ultimate form of service. Daily acts of kindness have proved to come a long way to making my community a better place.
What in work or in life are you particularly proud of?
Building a new life from scratch as a young international student ended up being a journey to find myself, my own values, and beliefs. Every obstacle made me realize that life is a beautiful forest to explore, that every experience is worth stopping for once in a while. I believe I have found my place in the world and to share my kindness to inspire others.
How do you spend your time outside of the office?
I’m an actor! I have participated in various theatrical productions in Fredericton and sometime in the future I hope to expand the repertoire under my belt to all over the world.
Ashleigh Corey - Marketing & Communications Coordinator
What is the best advice you have ever been given?
The best piece of advice I've ever been given is: "Surround yourself with positive people who believe in your dreams, encourage your ideas, support your ambitions, and bring out the best in you." ~ Roy T. Bennett
What inspires you?
What motivates me is the act of assisting others, recognizing the power of collective effort, and striving to create memorable experiences. Additionally, my daily inspiration stems from the unwavering support of my family and friends, consistently driving me to become a more improved individual.
What motivates you?
My motivation for joining this organization and contributing to its success lies in the profound objective of making a meaningful impact on economic development. I firmly believe that marketing plays a pivotal role in numerous success narratives, and actively participating in this process to provide substantial assistance is genuinely fulfilling and inspiring to me.
What in work or in life are you particularly proud of?
As an individual who wasn't particularly outgoing during my formative years and, to be candid, quite reserved, my most significant accomplishment thus far was securing the title of Miss Nackawic in 2016 and earning the Miss Congeniality honor at the Miss New Brunswick Pageant in 2017. These experiences served as catalysts for me to break out of my shell, conquer my fear of public speaking, amass over 100 hours of volunteer service, and make a positive impact in my hometown and province. It's a transformation I never anticipated, but in hindsight, I've come to appreciate that personal growth often occurs when we venture beyond our comfort zones.
How do you spend your time outside of the office?
A fun tidbit about me is my passion for singing, combined with a deep love for the great outdoors. Usually, you'll find me loading my two chocolate Labrador retrievers into the Jeep and embarking on our next adventure – and trust me, their enthusiasm never wanes.
Deepty Sarder - Economic Specialist
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?
To embrace failure as a stepping stone to success.
What inspires you?
Acknowledgment serves as a driving force for me, igniting a sense of worth and determination to conquer challenges, as I believe my diligent efforts will not go unnoticed. My favourite inspirational quote "The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing."--Socrates
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
I have a strong interest in economic analysis, which has led me to this point. As an expert in economics, I can contribute my valuable insights to analyze the economic effects of different factors and activities within a professional setting. Additionally, I can collaborate with local leaders to execute initiatives and projects, as well as predict the future economic growth of a region.
What is work or life are you particularly proud of?
My path towards becoming an Economist was both remarkable and demanding. There was a time when I doubted whether I would ever achieve my goal, considering how challenging it is to obtain such an opportunity in Bangladesh. I struggled to distinguish myself and felt unable to make a mark. However, I made the bold choice to pursue a second Master's degree in Canada, and I take immense pride in that decision, as it ultimately allowed me to fulfill my dream.
How do you like to spend time outside the office?
I've got some serious cooking skills, and I'm always up for an adventure! As a kid, while others dreamed of becoming doctors or engineers, I fantasized about being a free-spirited gypsy. I'm all about being true to myself, doing my own thing, and pursuing whatever brings me joy. I love to think outside of the box and enjoy venturing into uncharted territories, constantly seeking new experiences and pushing the boundaries of what I've done before.
Michelle Hull - Office Manager
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
You can’t control the world around you, but you can control how you react to it. Essentially, life happens but it is empowering to realize that you have the ability to control your thoughts and actions and react mindfully to the sometimes chaotic world around us. When life feels out of control you can always manage it by working from the inside out.
What inspires you?
My family is what inspires me to be the person I am and to navigate through this crazy world!
What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
My role is more behind the scenes which suits me just fine! I love being a support to the team and am proud to be part of an organization that has so much impact on our region.
How do you spend your time outside the office?
Outside of the office, my primary role is mom and wife and most of my time is spent hanging out with my husband and two boys. One of my passions has always been dance and performing. Although I haven’t stepped foot on a stage myself in years, I still love everything about the theatre. If “professional theatre goer” was a job, I would be doing that!