Are you navigating a new job search? Thinking about next steps, whether that means advancing in your current career path or finding another? Or perhaps you’re simply looking for some inspiration from successful professionals who have excelled in their careers? Either way, this session is for you.
Join a panel of experienced HR professionals and hiring managers to learn about their unique career journeys, including pivotal moments, challenges and the decisions that shaped their paths. You’ll gain both inspiration and practical guidance as panelists answer common questions about breaking into the workforce, navigating career uncertainty, building skills and confidence and standing out in today’s job market.
Leave with fresh perspectives, honest insights and actionable advice to help you take your next career steps with clarity and confidence.
Diana Khadem, BA’00, MA, CPHR, RPR (she/her)
Lead Consultant, HRPR Global
After graduating with a BA in Communications in 2000, Diana went on to earn an MA in International/Organizational Conflict Resolution. She has the CPHR and RPR designations and has worked as HR Director, Manager, Corporate Recruiter and is currently a Consultant with HRPR Global Inc.
Diana is pursuing a post-graduate certificate in Social Transformation, at Wilmette University (Chicago), exploring how to tackle bullying in the workplace (specifically microaggressions) through human capacity building.
Elaine Chow Baker, MSc’09, MBA, PMP (she/her)
Manager, Operations, Centre for Career and Personal Development, UCalgary
With 15 years of progressive leadership experience supporting institutional operations, Elaine is dedicated to building collaborative, high-performing teams and delivering complex projects successfully. In her current role as Manager Operations at the Centre for Career and Personal Development, and previous role as Director, Continuing Medical Education and Professional Development, Elaine supports learners to recognize new possibilities, grow professionally, and contribute their talents in purposeful ways.
Shahir Jinnah, BComm '17 (he/him)
Director, Recruitment at Grid Group
Shahir has been working in the recruitment industry since 2017 and has since worked on a wide range of Senior and Director level roles that focus on Information Technology, Oil & Gas, Management Consulting, and more. He graduated from the Haskayne School of Business, specializing in Business Technology Management. As Director, Recruitment at Grid Group, he spearheads recruitment delivery and business development, overseeing the full candidate and client experience.
Wayne Thai, BEd '02, BSc '00 (he/him)
Wayne Thai, Job Developer, Employment Specialist
Wayne Thai is an experienced Employment Specialist and community connector with over six years of career advising and job development experience. He supports diverse job seekers, including those facing barriers to employment, by combining labour market insight with practical coaching strategies. Known for his engaging workshops and strong employer partnerships, Wayne excels at connecting people, ideas, and opportunities. His background in education, community leadership, and consulting allows him to guide individuals toward meaningful and sustainable career paths.
Andrea Christenen, BEd'99, MEd, CCDP (she/her)
Associate Director, Alumni Programs, Career & Personal Development, UCalgary
Andrea works with Alumni Engagement at UCalgary, where she supports alumni in all stages of their career and wellness journey. She has worked in various roles within career development and education and her experience spans that of school-teacher, program manager, school board liaison, business owner, and mom, among other things. She is a Certified Career Development Professional (CCDP) and truly enjoys helping others at different points in their career journey, whether it be to discover their value, find meaningful work, support career pivots, or work out next steps.