Our Staff

  • Danna Garcia Wigueras

    Executive Director

    dannag@southgranvilleseniors.ca

    At first, Danna was a volunteer with the Spanish Program. Her background in Mexico was excellent preparation, even though it was not focused on seniors. “I was a preschool teacher, I ran an educational business that helped children with special needs, I mentored students at all levels, and I ran a children’s summer camp.” All this taught her to organize and run programs, and developed her gift for engaging with people and helping them use their minds and bodies to the full.  “Here at the Centre,” she says, “we’re re-creating a little bit of ‘back-home’ — a place to relax and talk and laugh and dance and reminisce. I want people to be eager to come here, every day of the week.”

  • Gina Chaves

    MANAGER, OFFICE

    officemanager@southgranvilleseniors.ca

    Gina was already familiar with the Centre having been a volunteer here in 2019 and 2021. Gina studied Accounting in Colombia and Business Management with an emphasis on Human Resources here in Vancouver. She has more than 15 years of experience in the field of accounting. Gina has lived in Vancouver with her husband and daughter for long time ago in BC. She enjoys outdoor activities and that is why her favorite season is Summer.  She also loves to cook and prepares a variety of recipes for her family. She is happy to be part of this community, loves working and sharing with Seniors, and feels strongly committed to the Center.

  • Karen Pineda

    VOLUNTEER & PROGRAM COORDINATOR.

    volunteer@southgranvilleseniors.ca

    With a strong background in Marketing and Design in her country and studies here in Canada in her field, she was volunteer in non- profit organizations that introduce her to our organization for her strong skills on management and program coordination. Karen is committed to improving the well-being of seniors through innovative programs and community engagement.

    Karen manages volunteer recruitment, onboarding, and scheduling, ensuring that both the center's needs and volunteers' skills are well-matched. She also collaborates with external organizations to bring services, such as valuable talks, activities, bazars, donations and fairs.

Summer Students

  • Samuel Akindele

    MARKET ANALYST

    “My name is Samuel Akindele and I have lived in Surrey my whole life. I am the market analyst for South Granville Seniors Centre. I am entering my final year at Simon Fraser University’s Beedie School of Business concentrating in marketing and strategic analysis. The reason why I chose those concentrations are because of how much I love connecting with others while being creative and detail oriented in business.

    I enjoy playing basketball along with piano and trumpet. Both music and sports are areas where I can be creative and express myself. I have been playing piano since I was four years old and started playing trumpet and basketball at 9. What I enjoy most about working at SGSC would be the very kind staff and the personable members that come in. ”

  • Mckenna Seebach

    PROGRAM ASSISTANT

    “I’m currently in law school at the University of British Columbia. Outside of school, I like going to the beach, walking along the seawall, and finding new restaurants to try! This summer, I was looking for a way to be involved in the community and thought South Granville Seniors Centre was the perfect opportunity as I’m passionate about bringing people together and contributing to a welcoming and fun environment. In turn, I am very excited to be working as the Program Assistant. I have been impressed with the variety of programs and events the team has put together so far and am eager to contribute new ideas. My time with the Centre so far has been a great experience and I look forward to continuing to work with our wonderful team and members!”

  • Hanielle Surilla

    COMMUNICATIONS

    “I will be entering my third year at the University of British Columbia, where I major in microbiology. I enjoy swimming, writing, 3D modelling, and creating thing— ranging from video games or theatre props to crocheting cute animals. What I enjoy the most about working at the centre would be the welcoming and warm atmosphere, along with the opportunity to learn and refine new skills every day. The staff have created a diverse environment, where everyone is celebrated and accepted. Having the opportunity to be part of a wonderful community is something I am extremely thankful for. My time at the centre so far has been an unforgettable experience, and I look forward to continuing to work with the amazing team and members and contributing to the community.”