OUR TEAM

We are a comprehensive, multidisciplinary team of experienced family medicine physicians and specialists with expertise in refugee health, working side-by-side with nurses, mental health therapists, and settlement counsellors, aided by community support workers, cultural brokers, social workers, and cultural/language interpreters, to support healthy and productive new Canadians contributing to the social, cultural, and economic well-being of their communities.

Our Staff

Astrid Velasquez

Astrid Velasquez is the Executive Director of the New Canadians Health Centre and a certified Resettlement Practitioner with 20 years of experience in immigration and resettlement. Arriving in Canada as a refugee herself, she brings extensive lived and professional experience supporting refugees and newcomers. She was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal in 2023 for demonstrating excellence in the non-profit sector in Alberta.

Executive Director

Idil Jama

Idil Jama is a first-generation Canadian dedicated to making a difference at the NCHC in the lives of Refugees. Her heart is in helping people from various cultures, she is fluent in both English and Somali to foster understanding and support. She finds solace in reading, watching documentaries, listening to podcasts, and taking walks. For her working at the NCHC is a personal journey of connection, learning, and creating a welcoming space for everyone she encounters.

Lead Medical Office Assistant

Nsreen Aldarwish

Nsreen Aldarwish came to Canada from Syria nearly seven years ago, bringing her background in engineering and AutoCAD design to her role at the New Canadians Health Centre, which she joined in 2022 to support newcomers through their settlement journey. She takes pride in the NCHC’s caring, collaborative environment and focuses on connecting patients with community clinics that meet their needs, especially those offering language interpretation, while using her Arabic language skills to help clients feel understood and empowered.

Medical Office Assistant / Lead Transfer of Care

Angela Agudelo

Lead Health Navigator/Lead Volunteer & Practicum Students

Angela Agudelo is originally from Colombia, previously worked as a lawyer in the financial and commercial sectors before joining the New Canadians Health Centre at its opening. She supports patients and families with empathy and patience, guiding them through the healthcare system, mentoring social work students and volunteers, and fostering a welcoming, respectful environment. Meeting people from around the world has enriched her perspective.

Sonia Solangi

Sonia Solangi is a first-generation Canadian and international medical graduate dedicated to making a difference and providing care to those most in need. She was drawn to the NCHC by their mission to improve the health and well-being of refugees through the provision of culturally competent care. As an immigrant herself, she understands the challenges that come with moving to a new country, especially with young children.

Medical Office Assistant

Emma Renz

Emma is a Registered Nurse with 10 years of experience working primarily in Emergency Departments. Her career has also taken her overseas, where she has been honoured to contribute to disaster response efforts in multiple countries. She is passionate about helping people in need and enjoys traveling and exploring the outdoors.

Registered Nurse

Jessica Haight

Jessica Haight has served as Research and Evaluation Coordinator since 2024, building on her earlier connection to the Centre that began in 2021 through her work with the University of Alberta, where she is completing her PhD in Public Health. In collaboration with the Centre’s Research and Evaluation Committee, she leads research initiatives that evaluate the Centre’s model of care, its impacts on refugee health, and opportunities for quality improvement. Working with the Centre’s newcomer families inspires her every day.

Research & Evaluation Coordinator

Vandana Sharma

Vandana Sharma is the Capacity Building Coordinator at the NCHC and holds an MBA in HR and IT from India. She joined the Centre in 2021 as a MOA and, drawing on her diverse professional experience, knowledge and skills, transitioned into her current role in 2023. Guided by her passion for community support, she is committed to strengthening capacity and sees the NCHC as the ideal place to apply her skills.

Capacity Building Coordinator

Family Physicians

Dr. Molly Whalen-Browne

MD, MSc, DTM&H, CCFP

Dr. Vickie Siu

MD, CCFP

Interim Medical Director

Dr Anneliese Kohler

MD, CCFP

Dr. Jennifer Zhang

MD, CCFP

Dr. Sofia Sagaidak

MD, CCFP

Nurse Practitioners

NP. Kerry Schnell

MN, NP

Nurse Practitioner

Alberta Health/Edmonton North Primary Care Network

Specialists

Dr. Brian J. Wirzba

MD, FRCPC, FACP

Internal Medicine

Dr. Qaasim Mian

MD, MBA, MPH, FRCPC

Pediatrician

Dr Tahseen Ladha

MD, MPH, FRCPC