About Us

We believe that when newcomers are supported, their potential is unlocked and their path to success is smoother.

Our focus is on removing barriers, creating clarity, and building bridges between cultures and communities.

Our Story

Everything started in 2019, when the founder, saw the need and struggle of immigrants in Canada. He started supporting and providing pro bono services such as settlement information, pre-and post-arrival support, airport pick up, transportation, orientation, and many other services based on their needs in Manitoba. He replicated what he has been doing in the Dominican Republic and other countries, but completely adapted to this country needs.

After a few years faithfully working on this personal project and receiving high demand of requests by international and domestic audience; he decided to incorporate an organization that keeps serving others with major support.

This is how Building Bridges for Newcomers is born on July 2023 to expand its vision and reach others in different parts of the country.

Our Mission

Mission

Through strategic partnerships, Building Bridges for Newcomers offers newcomers innovative tools and professional networking opportunities, empowering them to build successful careers and social lives in Canada.

Vision

Being the bridge of connection between newcomers and their destinations in Canada and other countries, adapting our programs and strategies according to the diverse legal, occupational, and social needs and contexts.

Values

Respect: We honor every person’s dignity, story, and culture.
Integrity: We act ethically, responsibly, and keep our word.
Honesty: We provide clear, truthful information with no false promises.
Compassion: We care deeply and respond with kindness and action.
Service: We exist to serve newcomers with humility and purpose.

Serving newcomers with dignity, truth, and heart.

Meet the Team Behind

Jesus Tejeda

Jesus is a social entrepreneur and community leader with over 15 years of experience working with vulnerable communities and immigrants. He is an International Legal Incubator Advisor and co-founder of the Community Legal Services Center of Santo Domingo (CECSEL-DM), the first legal incubator for lawyers established outside the United States. He has led and supported immigrant-focused initiatives across Latin America, the United States, and Canada, creating programs and community networks that promote access to justice, integration, and human-centered support. As the founder of Building Bridges for Newcomers, Jesus is committed to ensuring that no newcomer has to start their journey alone.

Executive Director

Herb Zobell

Herb has over 28 years of experience in commercial banking and Indigenous government, currently leading a regional team of specialized Relationship Managers focused on serving Indigenous clients. He has held senior leadership roles in Indigenous Financial Services, credit management, and commercial banking across Ontario and Alberta, and previously served as a band manager for a First Nation in Alberta. Herb holds a Bachelor of Management and an MBA and has served on multiple First Nation boards and community organizations. A member of the Ahtahkakoop Cree First Nation, he is deeply committed to community prosperity and Indigenous well-being.

Member of Grants and Donations Committee

Derek Christianson

Derek was born and raised in Manitoba where he has spent the majority of his life and has called Winnipeg home for the past 27 years. Derek and his wife, Janalee, have been married for 25 years and enjoy spending time with their seven children. He and his wife are active in their faith community where they have held various roles serving the community. Derek has spent the past 20+ years working in television and has extensive experience working in a team oriented environment and working as a lead on various television productions. As an active member in the community, Derek has had the unique pleasure and opportunity to work with people from various cultural backgrounds from all over the world and fully enjoys meeting new people and having chances to provide both service and friendship.