The People Behind WEM

Team Members

Meet our Leadership Team!

CEO

Kara Finney

CEO

What motivates you when things get challenging?

When things get challenging, I am motivated both personally as well as by the opportunity to lead through it — with resilience, clarity, and calm. I’ve learned that challenges are rarely unsolvable; they just require perspective, collaboration, and persistence. I treat it like a puzzle: I focus on what we do know, identify what’s missing, and support the team in working through the options until we get to a strong outcome. Helping others stay grounded and confident during difficult moments is a big part of what motivates me.

Directors

Lindsay Duffield

Executive Director of HR & Finance

What motivates you when things get challenging?

When things get challenging, I’m motivated by purpose and impact. I’m at my best when I understand why the work matters and how it helps people or moves something forward. I’m also motivated by a strong sense of responsibility—if I’ve committed to something, I want to see it through well, even when it’s hard.

Candace Cherewayko

Director of Operations of WEM – Southern Manitoba region

Was there a turning point that changed how you see your work? 

My decision to leave a secure job and work for a non-profit was driven by a passion to help individuals reach their educational or employability goals. 

Jocelyn Rowsell

Interim Director of Operations of ESM

What’s something you’re proud of that doesn’t show up on a résumé?

I am an avid runner and run outside year-round regardless of the weather. I have run over 25 half marathons, 4 full marathons, and an ultramarathon. Besides contributing to my physical and mental health, running has taught me discipline, perseverance, overcoming setbacks, and the importance of community—all of which help me in life and work!

Heather Daniels

Director of Organizational Effectiveness

What’s something you’re proud of that doesn’t show up on a résumé?

Something I am proud of that doesn’t show on the resume is that I love to find expensive brand-name items at the thrift store for a fraction of the cost.

Managers

Tee Dixon

Communications & Special projects manager

What’s something you struggled with during your education, and what did it teach you?

I struggled a lot with my dyslexia, having to work extra hard, second-guessing myself, looking through a dictionary (back when spell check wasn’t a thing), only to miss a glaring mistake because I’m focused on something else. Perfection isn’t human, and it’s ok to make mistakes, realize it, learn, grow, and move on.

Pooja Vishwanath

HR Manager

What motivates you when things get challenging?

I am motivated by continuous growth, and I approach challenges as opportunities to expand my capabilities. Challenges push me to evolve, and I meet them with calm, clarity, and a solution‑focused mindset. With a solution‑oriented perspective, I address problems thoughtfully and constructively. I believe every obstacle provides valuable insight, and by approaching challenges with patience, clarity, and optimism, I strengthen my resilience and move forward with confidence.