Founder: Germaine Tuyisenge, PhD
Driven by her own journey and passion for the success and well-being of students, Germaine founded Success Sphere to provide tailored mentorship, comprehensive resources, and transformative workshops to international students in Canada. With over a decade of personal experience as an international student in Canada (MA & PhD), the Netherlands (MSc), and Kenya (Postgrad), Germaine has firsthand knowledge of the challenges and opportunities that international students face. Her diverse background and extensive work as an educator in universities in Canada and Rwanda, along with her role as a program director for a collaborative master’s program at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (University of London, UK) and the University of Ghana, have equipped her with a deep understanding of the academic, cultural, and career-related needs of international students. With her unwavering dedication, expertise, and commitment to student success, Germaine is committed to making a significant difference in the lives of international students, empowering them to integrate, excel, and reach their full potential in Canada and abroad.
Arq. Erika Rangel, Senior Advisor
Erika’s fascination with architecture, design and creativity began at a young age. As a child, she was captivated by the city’s diverse and historical buildings, which ignited her imagination and sparked a desire to create spaces that blend functionality and beauty.
Born and raised in Monterrey, Mexico, always curious and eager to learn and explore the world around her. After 12 years of experience working as a licensed Architect, she made the courageous decision to leave her familiar surroundings and embrace a new chapter in her life moving to Canada to pursue a higher educational path in one of so many of her other passions, makeup artistry.
With an unwavering passion and creative spirit, Erika embarked herself on an inspiring journey to achieve her dreams and make her mark in the world of creativity. After 6 years of starting that journey, she currently works at one o the biggest architecture firms in Vancouver and has explored her makeup artistry career working with photographers and teaching courses.
Erika recognizes that the journey of an international student can be emotionally draining, specially when dealing with homesickness and the challenges of living in a foreign country without having a support system. As an advisor I am here to provide a compassionate ear, offering emotional support, and helping students build a strong network and solid careers, making the transition smoother ad less overwhelming. Understanding the importance of cultural integration, Erika fosters an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and accepted.
Patrick Mugabe, Senior Advisor
Patrick’s journey towards community engagement began during a transformative two-year work experience with an local organization in Rwanda. It was in this setting that he discovered his unwavering passion for making a positive impact on people’s well-being in a trans-disciplinary environment. This initial spark of inspiration continued to fuel his ambitions throughout his undergraduate studies and led him to pursue a Master of Science in Global Health Systems from Western University in Canada.
After completing his master’s degree, Patrick eagerly engaged in a significant project aimed at empowering vulnerable women in the Kibera slum of Nairobi, Kenya. His dedication extended beyond conceptualization, as he actively contributed to developing proposals to uplift the lives of these women. Furthermore, Patrick played an integral role in implementing creative workshops designed to benefit street children, providing them with opportunities for growth and self-expression.
Outside of his professional endeavors, Patrick finds joy and fulfillment in artistic pursuits. His free time is dedicated to writing, composing, and singing hip hop music, allowing him to express himself creatively and embrace his passion for the arts. Through his multifaceted experiences and interests, Patrick remains committed to his mission of making a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable communities and contributing to the betterment of society.
Gonzalo Sanabria Molinero, Advisor
Originally from Spain, Gonzalo made the courageous decision to embark on a transformative journey by relocating to Vancouver, British Columbia, to pursue an Associate’s Degree in Arts at the esteemed University Canada West. In addition to his academic pursuits, Gonzalo’s dedication to personal growth led him to broaden his horizons through English courses in Perth, Australia, and Cork, Ireland. This exposure to different cultures and languages has gifted him with a global perspective and a strong command of both English and Spanish, enabling seamless collaboration with diverse teams and international students.
Throughout his career, Gonzalo has proven himself as a versatile professional with a wealth of experience in various significant roles. His tenure as a Processor of Property Benefits and a Home and Special Risks Expert showcased his sharp critical thinking, adept decision-making, and exemplary coordination skills in resolving complex issues in the insurance sector. Moreover, Gonzalo’s foray into Human Resources as a Manager further exemplifies his proficiency in student application review and selection, student development, and proactive occupational hazard prevention.
Gonzalo’s history of success is a testament to his unwavering commitment to full-time performance and his dedication to fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment. These qualities, coupled with his expertise in collaborating with diverse individuals and teams, make him an invaluable asset to Success Sphere. With an impressive track record and a passion for making a significant impact, Gonzalo is poised to leverage his skills and knowledge to contribute meaningfully to the organization’s success.
Benita Ikirezi, Outreach Coordinator
Benita is a graduate student at the University of British Columbia in the School of Community and Regional Planning. With over two years of community engagement and city planning experience, she possesses the skills to address challenges faced by communities worldwide and a passion for building livable and equitable environments.
Having moved to the USA at the age of 18 as an international student and later to Canada, she understands the challenges and opportunities of relocating abroad with only aspirations and determination. Moreover, her experiences in Argentina, Spain, and South Africa have shaped her into a culturally sensitive individual with remarkable skills in adapting to new environments and facilitating strong connections with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
As the outreach coordinator, Benita is driven to engage and connect with international students across Canada on social media platforms through informative content, fostering a sense of belonging and support. Leveraging her passion for community building, she is dedicated to organizing inclusive spaces, events, and innovative solutions that facilitate a seamless transition for international students, ensuring their integration and success within their new environment. Feel free to slide in the DMs any time!
J.V. Flores, Digital Media Specialist
As a dedicated Project Lead and Researcher for Simon Fraser University, I have played a pivotal role in developing and implementing an innovative initiative that addresses the various challenges faced by students and newcomers. My academic and professional journey has been marked by significant contributions to research, evidenced by my co-authorship of successful publications. As an International Tutor, I have had the privilege of providing unwavering support to students, fostering their academic growth, and offering constructive feedback for their success.
Additionally, I have made a positive impact through my previous involvement with the SFU Health Sciences Student Union as a Dean Liaison, where I actively worked to foster an inclusive and engaging student experience. My dedication to creating an inclusive environment has been a driving force in my commitment to supporting the success of newcomers and international students in Canada.
As a Digital Media Specialist, I bring a wealth of expertise in creating compelling multimedia content, including podcasts and recording workshops, to enhance communication and engagement. My passion for leveraging technology and media to effectively convey information and ideas further strengthens my ability to contribute to the success of individuals embarking on their educational journey in a new country. With a strong commitment to empowering others, I am enthusiastic about utilizing my skills and knowledge to make a meaningful and lasting difference in the lives of newcomers and international students.
Mentors
At Success Sphere, we recognize the immense value of mentorship in the journey of international students. That’s why we connect our students with a diverse pool of experienced mentors who are professionals from various industries. Our mentors have walked the path of studying and establishing careers in Canada, making them uniquely qualified to offer guidance and support to international students facing similar challenges. They understand the nuances of navigating the Canadian educational system, building social connections, and transitioning into the Canadian workforce.
Our mentors serve as trusted advisors, providing personalized guidance tailored to the individual needs and aspirations of each student. They share their wealth of knowledge and experience, offering invaluable insights and practical advice to help students overcome obstacles and make informed decisions. Whether it’s exploring career options, enhancing networking skills, or developing a strategic roadmap for success, our mentors play a pivotal role in empowering students to achieve their goals.
Beyond their professional expertise, our mentors also serve as role models and sources of inspiration. By sharing their own journeys, they instill confidence, resilience, and a belief in the potential of each student. The mentor-student relationship goes beyond the regular meetings, fostering a sense of belonging and a supportive community where students can seek guidance, celebrate achievements, and find encouragement.
To access the list of our esteemed mentors, simply log in with your institution email or reach out to us directly. We take pride in curating a diverse and experienced mentorship network, ensuring that our students have access to the best possible support on their path to success.
