Meet Your YVR Workplace Representative Candidates- April 2025 Elections

Mark Enns, CSA

With over 20 years at WestJet, I bring a rare combination of front-line experience, leadership insight, and deep union involvement that makes me uniquely equipped to advocate for you. 

Since starting in 2001 as a Customer Service Agent in Edmonton, I’ve held multiple leadership positions in Vancouver—including Team Leader, Workforce Manager, and Guest Services Manager. My 17 years in workforce planning gave me firsthand knowledge of how decisions are made behind the scenes and how they affect our teams on the floor. When my department was phased out in 2016, I remained committed to WestJet by returning to the operation as a CSA. That same year, I took on a new kind of leadership—helping to organize our workplace (and Calgary) to join Unifor. Since then, I’ve been proud to represent you at the bargaining table, serve as the our Local's first Secretary-Treasurer, and support members through tough situations as a Workplace Representative.

I have extensive knowledge of our Collective Agreement, the Canada Labour Code, Human Rights legislation, and the realities of working in a federally regulated industry. I’ve completed Unifor’s Human Rights course to better understand and protect the rights of every member I represent. Our union has come a long way, but there’s still more to build—and that takes people who understand the process, the policies, and the pressure. I’m asking for your vote so I can continue to provide consistent, informed support in the workplace, and build on the progress we’ve already made together.

Your voice matters. Let’s keep moving forward—together.

Heather Benson, GSL

First and foremost, I am honoured to be nominated to represent my fellow workers.

I am Heather, for those who I haven't had a chance to cross paths with me, I am a nighttime GSL.  I have been with Westjet for 3 years now and I feel right at home with the Team and the work we do.  I have had the opportunity to perform different roles during my time. In my past life at Fraser Health Authority I managed teams in different departments and I am so excited to have the opportunity to use that experience to support my fellow Westjetters. It's important that everyone has access to support from our Union and to have their voices heard.  I would be a strong, fair and reasonable advocate for our team.

Thank you for your consideration on voting for me!

Julie Diels-Neufeld, CSA

I have worked at WJ for over 13 years, previously serving on WestJet’s Special Assistance Team and YVR’s OHS Committee. I created an Airport Accessibility program where I facilitated airport tours for disabled travelers on behalf of WestJet, YVR, and the Rick Hansen Foundation. Outside of WestJet, I enjoy travelling, reading, skiing, interior design, and bad tv. My household lives at full energy and volume thanks to my husband, four children, and well-intentioned but poorly behaved Sheepadoodle.

I graduated with my BA in Gender and Labour Studies and recently completed additional courses at SFU on human rights and collective bargaining. I believe in the power unions have to improve workplace conditions and our lives outside of work, and I want to use my background to make a difference here at WestJet.

Over the past two years I have supported our coworkers as the first Unifor Local 531 Women’s Advocate here in YVR, and last year I took on the role of Lead Pay Equity Representative for Local 531 on WestJet’s Pay Equity Committee. I have challenged WestJet’s decisions within the Pay Equity Committee by writing complaint responses against WestJet on behalf of the Unifor, CUPE, CALDA, AMFA, and IAM bargaining units.

I am passionate about ensuring my coworkers are supported at work in their personal lives. I hope to gain your trust and serve as a Workplace Representative so that I can continue to support our members in a meaningful way to navigate workplace challenges.

For those of you that I haven’t had the pleasure of meeting yet, I look forward to meeting you soon!

Aaron Smyth, CSA-B

My name is Aaron Smyth and I am a CSA-B from Baggage Services. I began my career at WestJet in 2009 after twenty years in television production. Mostly in children’s animation. I arrived at YVR on a two week contract to push wheelchairs over Christmas. I must have done something right as they liked me enough to keep on fifteen years longer. In that time I have seen many changes and worn many hats. I was fortunate to have been elected to be a representative on the Airport Employee Association for two years. In that time I worked hard to build a respectful relationship between the staff on the floor, local management and head office. I was involved in many initiatives to make our work lives easier while navigating through the complex levels of a large business. I was able to build good relationships with senior leadership that still exist to this day. It was a very rewarding time and something I would enjoy being involved with again. If you feel like that experience is something you would want in a union rep then I would appreciate a vote from you.

Elaine Keras, CSA

My name is Elaine Keras, and I’m proud to be running for re-election as your Workplace Representative. Over the past 11 years with WestJet, I’ve had the privilege of growing alongside this company—from my early days as a Guest Service Ambassador to Customer Service Agent, and now as a relief Airport Learning Coordinator. But my most meaningful role has been representing and advocating for you—our members.

As a Trustee on our Local 531 Executive Board and your current Workplace Representative, I’ve fought hard for fair working conditions, strong representation, and respect in our workplace. I bring with me deep knowledge of our Collective Agreement, a clear understanding of union–company dynamics, and strong relationships with both management and union leadership—relationships I use every day to elevate your voices and defend your rights.

If re-elected, I’ll continue to:
✅ Be accessible and responsive to your concerns
✅ Advocate fiercely on your behalf
✅ Preserve the values and culture that make WestJet unique

Let’s keep building a stronger workplace—together.

Vote to re-elect Elaine Keras. Proven. Knowledgeable. Committed to YOU.

Hershcel Agoncillo, GSL

To my fellow YVR WestJetters, I am HERSHCEL, one of your candidates for our Union Workplace Representative Local 531.

I graduated in Bachelor of Science in Hotel, Restaurant Management and also obtained a Flight Attendant, Tourism Diploma. I have been with YVR since 2015 and gained experienced with Air North, Dexterra/Compass Canada, and currently with WestJet for 8 years since January 2017. I was also nominated for 3 straight years to received the YVR Stars award as part of my proud accomplishments. I was hired as a CSA and work my way up to be your Guest Service Lead and Airport Learning Coordinator and at the same time, as your Occupational, Health & Safety committee member.

With the years of customer service experienced I had, exceptional skills and knowledge and my passion in this industry, I strongly believe that with everyone’s participation, we can all make a difference. If I will be elected as one of your Union Local 531 Workplace Representative, I will do my best to spend time to listen keenly, to lend my helping hand, and to give my 101% full support sincerely from the heart. 

I believe that when members are connected, they participate. More participation and engagement build stronger unions and safe working conditions for all.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR TRUST.

Ridhima Jawa, CSA

Fair. Fearless. For You    

I believe in fairness, transparency, and standing up for what’s right. I’ll be your voice—listening to your concerns and fighting for better working conditions.
I’ll make sure every member feels heard, valued, and protected. 

Reliable. Responsive. Ready to Represent. Vote Ridhima Jawa – Because your voice matters. 

I have been working with WestJet for one year and six months. It was very knowledgeable, and gaining Canadian aviation experience adds another laurel to my aviation career. I have completed my MBA in HR and am a CPHR candidate. I am pursuing my studies in psychology and will pursue a doctorate to further research.

Your Voice Matters. 

Tanvir Islam, CSA

“You may remember me as Tanvir Number 2”
“From our guests to our colleagues, I bring laughter, respect, and support to the table”

My name is Tanvir Islam, and I am honored to nominate myself for the role of Workplace Representative at YVR. I joined WestJet in September 2023 as a Customer Service Agent. Having faced and recovered from a major health journey, I’ve come to deeply value what it means to feel heard, supported, and respected in the workplace. This experience has motivated me to give back—by being a trusted advocate and resource for our YVR team. 

As a Workplace Representative, I will ensure that everyone is treated fairly, guided clearly through workplace matters, and educated about their rights under the Collective Agreement. In addition to my time at WestJet, I have previous union experience through Local 40, where I worked under a collective agreement and actively learned from union representatives. This experience helped me understand the power of strong representation and inspires me to step forward and do the same for our team. 

I also bring a solid academic foundation, with a Bachelor’s degree in Airline Business Management (focusing on Human Psychology and Aviation), as well as a Master of Business Administration. Combined with my experience in both aviation and hospitality, I’ve developed strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.

I’m ready to listen with professionalism and compassion. I would be proud to serve as your Workplace Representative and humbly ask for your support in this election.

Kimberly Philip, CSA

Over the last two and a half years with WestJet, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside many of you on the floor as a fellow CSA, and over the past year and a half, I’ve also had the opportunity to connect with many more of you in my role as ALC Relief. Through both roles, I’ve seen first-hand the dedication, teamwork, and resilience it takes to do what we do — and I understand the challenges we face every day. 

That’s why I’m stepping forward to run as your Union Representative. With your support, I’m ready to be a strong, trusted voice for our team. I bring to this role the values that define not only how I work, but who I am: hardworking, loyal, approachable, empathetic, and deeply committed to fairness and equality. I care deeply about this incredible team — our CSA’s, DDC, Workforce, GSL’s, GSLB’s, ALC’s, BSA’s, and the IC team — and I’m ready to stand up, speak out, and advocate for every one of you. 

I will work to ensure that your voices are heard, your concerns are taken seriously, and that we continue building a workplace where everyone is respected and supported. This is about more than one person — it’s about all of us, working together to create the environment we all deserve. 

Thank you for your support, and for everything you bring to our team every single day.

Sue Tooch, GSL

I’m Sue Tooch one of your full time GSLs . I have also had the roles of GSA, PSA,CSA, ALC ,and new hire guide. I have been one of your OSH reps since 2016. I started at Westjet in 2010 and I’ve seen many many changes including us becoming unionized after the pandemic. As I am here long hours daily and I am passionate about us having fair, good working conditions I would like to continue as one of your workplace reps . I have just finished my first 2 year term and I would like to continue in the role. The union has been new for us and always evolving.

We need to have our voices heard and I am always here to listen and advocate for you .

Saajan Dhillion, CSA

    
I have completed my Master’s in Business Administration with specialization in Marketing and Human Resource Management. 
I am working as a Customer service agent at WestJet Airlines in Vancouver from last 10 months. Apart from that, I have 6+ years of experience working in Customer oriented industry especially in the Banking sector, where I use to work as Relationship manager and Customer service representative. As well as, managing the administrative work and other projects.

My first focus will always be to strongly advocate for members who call, email or approach me to have their needs met at workplace. I aim to create a safe space where workers can be actively involved without any barriers to participation and thrive in diversity. I would like to develop an easy access support & resources tool that inspires coworkers to excel. I would foster transparent communication and a platform where everyone will feel that they are being heard for any issues that they are facing at the workplace, so that they feel valued, and which will eventually motivate them to excel in their particular roles. If any newcomer is not aware about the right platform where they can discuss issues that may hinder their performance, I would be more than happy to provide them the resources where they can know about their rights and do and don't at a healthy workplace in sync with the union protocols. Compassionate listening which offers safe space to share members stories. Educating others to raise awareness to dispel misconceptions and promote understanding and acceptance. Collaborative spirit to build bridges with our membership and beyond to amplify the impact of our work.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to me. Thank you.

Maddie Mills, CSA

My name is Maddie Mills, and I joined WestJet as a CSA in August of 2023. Prior to joining WestJet, I was a manager at my previous job and also held various other leadership positions over the years. In those roles, I had many opportunities to mentor and support people through different challenges, always ensuring that they felt safe and respected while we worked towards resolution.

I’ve loved the almost 2 years that I’ve spent working at WestJet, and at the same time, I know how tough this job can be. With the challenges we sometimes face here, I believe it’s essential for all of us to feel supported and well-represented at work. When presenting a concern or addressing an issue, it’s important to feel heard and understood. I consider myself to be someone who is trustworthy, understanding, and not afraid to stand up for others, and those are qualities I would continue to stand by in this role. Whether you’ve been here for a decade or whether you have yet to crack the top 100 on the seniority list like me, we all deserve to be treated fairly and have the support we need in the workplace.

Aydrian Kalin, CSA

About me?  Aydrian Kalin.  How incredibly humbling it can be to sit in front of a screen and write “about me”.  It either ends up with “is that it?” or “wow, I need a holiday!”.  If we’re lucky,  we most likely fall somewhere in the middle.

My career in Hospitality started with a busboy job with ‘Earls’ in Calgary, and later, after moving to British Columbia, I joined the ‘Milestone’s Restaurants’ Cara Foods team.  I worked my way up through the ranks, from junior Ops Manager to General Manager, a role I remained in from 2007, until 2019.  During that time, I managed to earn a Diploma in Counselling-Psychology, and spent 4 years in California, earning an Associate Arts Degree in Acting and Voice from the Academy of Dramatic Arts in Los Angeles.

In 2019 I decided I needed a change.  I knew I had to do something that would be a caveat to my unique skill set and decided to apply with WestJet. I was hired as full-time Call Center Agent, and through the Summer of 2019, I attended training from June to August, 8 hours a day, Monday to Friday, on the wonderful Saber system.  Upon successful completion, I took my skill set to the phone lines, working in Sales and Reservations Support.  In 2020, I applied to move to YVR, as a CSA.  In 2021, I sustained a work-place injury, went on Medical Leave, returning in January 2024. I love WestJet and I love the people.  We’re a team of talented and experienced individuals who all bring something unique to the table.  As a company, we are ever-growing, ever-changing.  I pride myself on positive problem-solving, learning from, and coaching my colleagues, while furthering my own development.  I also firmly believe one must be in the trenches with the team, to fully grasp the needs and concerns within each role. My experience in Management has taught me how to operate under pressure, and to look beyond personal feelings, to what is right for the majority.

I humbly appreciate those of you who have recommended me for this position as your Union Rep.  I’m honored that my colleagues believe in me enough to allow me to represent the team.  I can’t offer miracles, but I can offer a strong voice and experience to represent Team YVR with passion and conviction. Congratulations to my fellow nominees.

Sajan Athwal, CSA

Bio was not provided by the candidate. 

Kamini Prasad, CSA

My name is Kamini prasad I have been with Westjet since October 2022 as a CSA, GSL and DDC Relief. I am excited for the opportunity to run for a Union workplace Rep at YVR . I bring to you over 20+years  of management, customer experience and people management  experience from a financial services industry in the lower mainland. I have held various chair, board and director positions within TD Bank group, Surrey Board of Trade and also various Indo Canadian Business Associations within the Lower Mainland. I am asking your support in the election as I wish to be your voice and support you in this new role. I have been an advocate for equality, safe and happy workplace. I believe in strength of communication and my ability to work collaboratively and in the best interest of all members and I hope that you will believe in me. I have the passion, experience, integrity and forward thinking attitude required to represent the members of this group.