We are so excited to be welcoming 4 new team members to Orbis! As a campus partner, you will likely connect and work with any one of these new faces but first, here’s a little snapshot into their personalities:
Meet Riya Brahmbhatt, Co-op Software Quality Assurance Tester
Born in India, I moved to Canada after completing a Bachelor of Computer Applications, where I became a student of Conestoga College. Now a recent graduate of Software Quality Assurance and Test Engineering (Co-op) and Computer Applications Development (Co-op), I started my journey as a part of the co-operative learning program at Orbis in September 2020.
In my first co-op term, Mike and Aishwarya were great supporters and mentors, guiding me along every step of my work. Throughout my co-op with Orbis, I’ve learned to be more confident about my technical and non-technical skills. I feel fortunate to be asked back to continue working as a co-op. Orbis has provided me an incredible opportunity to start and grow my career as a Quality Assurance Tester and continues to be generous in sharing knowledge and support. Truthfully, Orbis provides me the kind of job satisfaction I have always wished for, and it feels like the perfect fit for me.
In my spare time, I spend time reading books and listening to music. I love to meet new people, gain new experiences, and learn new things. (Fun fact: I am currently learning how to play the ukulele.)
Meet Saheb Bhalla, Software Product Success Coach & Onboarder
Born in India, I moved to Canada after finishing high school in applied sciences. After this, I attended Mohawk College and received a diploma in Software Development.
My work experience began as an intern for Concentrix Inc, as a Technical Advisor troubleshooting mobile and desktop operating systems. This parlayed into a role with Bell Technical Solutions, as a Field Service Technician. I worked in this role for two years, and was awarded for exceptional customer service, great problem solving, and working on the front lines during the pandemic.
This breadth of experience in customer service, along with my passion for technology and software development, has empowered me to work on many software projects-including self-driving car models! In my spare time, I enjoy playing golf, 8 ball, hiking, and jet skiing.
I am excited to be a part of Orbis, and believe this opportunity will lay a strong foundation for my career as I am confident in saying that I am working with some extraordinarily skilled and intellectual people. I was initially drawn to Orbis because I heard so much positive feedback about the company’s culture. I have felt so welcomed within the company. I am looking forward to this amazing journey.
Meet Linda Challacombe, Product Success Coach & Onboarder
Living and working in Calgary, I recently joined Orbis after working for nearly ten years in post-secondary career services where I became a big fan of the platform, and both trained and supported department staff.
As a graduate of a practicum-based program, work experience is near and dear to my heart. I am passionate about supporting campus partners as they, in turn, support students.
Outside of work, some things that define me are my love for dogs (especially my rescue, Antonio), being a mother of my daughter, also a beneficiary of practicum experience as a current post-secondary student, and occupying my time baking, making stationery, and eating ice cream (although not always in that order).
Meet Alexandra DeFazio, Product Success Coach & Onboarder
I am originally from Hamilton, where I attended Bishop Ryan Catholic Secondary school. In 2008 I moved to Dubai, where I spent my high school years at the Emirates International School. It was there that I built longstanding relationships with friends and families in the area who are still my friends today. In 2010 I returned to Hamilton, where I received diplomas in General Arts and Science, Biotechnology, and Business Marketing from Mohawk College, in 2013.
Following my studies, I remained an associate at Staples Canada. I began to work my way up in the ranks managing Sales, Services, and working with the home office to develop a training manager role. My time at Staples taught me patience, understanding, and how to give extraordinary levels of customer service while leading a team and driving results. After fourteen years with the company, it was time to take the risk and expand my capabilities.
I have always had a passion for helping people, whether in customer or community service and volunteer hours outside of work. Notably, in my final year of high school, I was involved in a school building program, helping the disadvantaged community members of Mauritius, Africa, build new schools and activity centers.
In my personal time, I am an assistant coach for the Hamilton Aquatic Club and volunteer with Dog Guides’ annual fundraiser walks. I enjoy being outdoors, hiking, golfing, running, spending time with my family, playing or watching just about any sport, and attempting to ‘carry a tune.’ Travelling is also a big part of my life – I like going to other parts of the world, seeing a different culture, and trying local foods. (So far, my favourite trip has been my honeymoon, where we took a month to visit and explore Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, and Bali!)
I am so pleased to become a part of the Orbis family. My beliefs are the same as the values Orbis carries, and I cannot wait to meet all the wonderful associates on the team, who I have heard so much about!
