Meet the team!
Bridget Ryan
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
(506) 432 1252
As the Executive Director of MAS Bridget works with the board and staff to maintain and grow the association in Sussex. She handles all of the operations, finances and staffing as well as building community and provincial partnerships.
Bridget is a long-time resident of Sussex and comes to MAS with a background in community service, banking and human resources. As a true believer in the importance of Multiculturalism in Canada, the role of ED is a perfect fit.
Tara Thorne
INTEGRATION SERVICES
(506) 435 1494
Head of settlement, integration, employment services/employer relations, and the RSN Coordinator for Sussex. Managing and overseeing the settlement needs of newcomers throughout their various stages from pre-arrival to citizenship.
Tara has always wanted to help people and loves problem solving. She saw the opportunity to do that when she started with MAS. From the smallest task to the biggest hurdle. She is there to walk our newcomers through the entire process of settling into our vibrant community.
Kurosh Taromi
EVENTS COORDINATOR
Multicultural events, local excursions, and partnerships with community groups within the region to plan and promote activities that increase the visibility of newcomers, as well as promote diversity and inclusion.
Kurosh is a newcomer from Iran. He lives in Sussex and has been in Canada since 2011. He received his Ph.D. in Modern Iranian Studies from Germany and is experienced in Cultural Activities, Publishing, Teaching, and Research. Having lived on three continents and traveled to over a hundred regions in 15 countries, he enjoys learning about cultures, religions, and traditions as well as celebrating and sharing them with others.
Henry Ofurune
COORDINATOR OF VOLUNTEERS
Henry coordinates and supports MAS' volunteers and leads the Homework Club and Community Ambassadors programs. Volunteers play a crucial role in MAS’ mandate in enhancing the lives of newcomers and impacting the greater community.
With extensive experience in the non-profit sector, Henry always believed in the importance of inclusion and cultural diversity in building strong and sustainable communities.
Lori Coleman
NEWCOMER SUPPORT SERVICES
Supporting newcomers with higher needs and increased barriers by developing modified settlement plans and working one-on-one to help them achieve independence navigating the community. Liaison for newcomers with existing community programs and supports, as well as wrap around services.