Settlement Team

KAREN OLDROYD is the Program Director of Settlement Services at Community Employment Services. With an educational and employment background in Social Services, Karen has worked in the field for over 30 years. She has a Diploma in Developmental Service Work, Career Foundations and Settlement Work and her efforts have been focused on supporting people with disabilities, youth, unemployed individuals, and newcomers. She started as an Employment Counsellor in 2004 and for the past 10 years has supported the successful integration of newcomers into Oxford’s workforce and community. Karen is also the co-chair of the Oxford Local Immigration Partnership Council, that is committed to nurturing a welcoming, inclusive, safe community that embraces and truly values diversity. Karen’s commitment to nurturing strong supportive relationships coupled with an empathetic, client-centric, holistic and innovative approach to service has had a profoundly positive impact on newcomers and the entire Oxford community.

HAYLEY MATHESON is a Settlement Counsellor at CES where she has worked on and off since 2016. Through her work with students and newcomers she has honed her customer service skills and gained valuable experience in engaging diverse audiences. Hayley graduated with honours from Toronto Metropolitan University in 2020, where she specialized in Communications and Media Business. Her academic pursuits have equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of effective communication strategies, enabling her to bridge gaps and build meaningful connections. Hayley is passionate about fostering valuable community connections and leveraging her expertise in communications to ensure vital services and resources are accessible to all newcomers. Hayley manages the Facebook page "Welcoming Newcomers to Oxford County", ensuring a warm and inclusive online space for newcomers and locals alike. She also oversees this website, where she curates content and resources to provide a valuable online hub for information and support. In her counsellor role, Hayley assists newcomers in navigating the challenges of settling into a new community. Her approach is rooted in empathy and understanding, creating a supportive environment for individuals and families as they embark on their life journey in Oxford County. Hayley strives to make Oxford County an inclusive and welcoming home for everyone.

FILARETI ZIOGA is an Employment Counsellor at CES specializing in newcomer employment. Having been in Canada for 5 years since immigrating here from Greece with her family she understands first hand how hard it can be for newcomers to gain their footing here. She speaks English, Greek, Italian and is dedicated to helping you find a job that suits your skills and abilities. She looks forward to assisting you!

ILIRA THOMA is a Settlement Counselor at CES – you may recognize her from her first job as an Administrative Assistant behind the front desk where she greeted each   client, giving them her full attention to make sure they received the excellent service they deserve! Ilira is a proud honours graduate from George Brown College, specializing in Administration Management for Health Care. Her education has gifted Ilira with a wealth of knowledge on health-related topics that many of our clients need help with. With over five years of experience in Office Management and as a Pharmacist Technician, Ilira has honed her abilities in efficiently running organizations and understanding the intricacies of counseling. Fluent in four   languages—English, Albanian, Italian, and Greek—she effortlessly bridges linguistic gaps to ensure effective communication.

As an immigrant herself, Ilira has walked the path of immigration for nearly eight years, gaining invaluable insights into the challenges and triumphs newcomers face. This personal journey fuels her passion for helping others navigate the complex process of settling in a new country.

A loving mother of four, Ilira brings a warmth and understanding to her role, recognizing the unique needs of families. Her genuine kindness, welcoming demeanor, and exceptional skills make her an ideal advocate for newcomers seeking support and guidance.

Whether you're embarking on a new journey to Canada or seeking assistance with settlement, Ilira is here to guide you with expertise, empathy, and a personal touch. Join us at Community Employment Services and let Ilira be your trusted companion on your path to a brighter future.

ROOHI LAKRA is an Employment Counsellor at CES specializing in newcomer employment. She is from India and speaks many languages including English, French, Spanish, Hindi Punjabi and Urdu. She is a calm, hard-working, helpful member of our team and is ready to help you find the job you looking for as a newcomer to Canada!