We have a talented and passionate team dedicated to the success and growth of Latincouver. These amazing people are the backbone of Latincouver and through them every event and program is made possible. Through the dedicated efforts of our team, Latincouver supports communities, empowers people, promotes culture, and connects business.
Paola Murillo is a resourceful Marketing and International Business Development executive with over 17 years of global experience, supporting the delivery and planning of all kinds of marketing projects, including major events, facilitating community dialogues, product launches, internal communication, and stakeholder engagement.
Linda Purcell is a Chartered Professional Accountant with a BA in English Literature and Creative Writing from UBC. She has a wealth of experience that includes writing in numerous genres, working as an owner/manager at Top Producer Systems, working in public affairs, creating a book review blog, and finalizing the cookbook: Veggie Outlaws.
Born in Lima Peru and raised in Ecuador, Pilar recognized her passion for hospitality and tourism in her early 20’s. She pursued her dream and learned from the best! She studied at the world renowned Steigenberger School in Munich, Germany.
Upon completion of her studies she was afforded the opportunity of working at the Five Star, Hilton Colon, Guayaquil. She quickly developed her talent for managing complex and unique banquets,conferences and events for distinguished guests. She hosted many prestigious and high-profile conferences for the Presidents and dignitaries with all of the South American countries.
With her experience and national reputation for excellence, she opened her own restaurant, catering and event business in 2002. Her restaurant was immediately successful. Amidst her success she married and moved to Canada. Pilar formed ‘Pili Hansen Events’ in Vancouver during the summer of 2010 and continues its success in Toronto since 2012.
Pilar has been part of Latincouver’s Carnaval del Sol since 2012, which has become one of the largest and most important Festivals for Vancouver and the province of British Columbia. Pilar has a natural gift for bringing people together for life’s important moments.
Her personal touch and passion for creating the best events are always evident to clients and guests alike.
Menilson began his journey at Latincouver as a Projects Coordinator and now works as an Executive Assistant and Program Coordinator. Armed with a degree in social communication, he takes pride in weaving connections across all departments. Additionally, he wears the hat of the host for the Latincouver podcast, ‘Brasileiros em Vancouver.’ ‘I love the dynamic energy of this organization and the idea of being an important supporter of the Latin American community in Vancouver, Canada!
Patricia is a finance professional from Araguaína, Tocantins, the newest state in the middle of Brazil, with a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Accounting, and a Data Analytics diploma from Greystone. Specializing in internal audit with a focus on financial statement processes, Patricia’s career began with a volunteer role at Latincouver shortly after arriving in Canada. She has since built a successful career in finance, combining her expertise in accounting, economics, and data analysis.
Mariana, from Mexico City, is an explorer in the territories of creativity, design, and marketing, boasting over a decade of experience in global advertising agencies. With a rich background working on diverse campaigns across TV, radio, print, and digital platforms for global brands, she chose Vancouver to learn about digital marketing. At Latincouver, she smoothly combines administrative skills with her creative and advertising expertise, turning each day into a canvas of joy and fun in this fusion of skills.
Originally from El Salvador, Sofia holds a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations from the University of British Columbia. She has served as a Research & Policy Analyst for the World Future Council and a Researcher & Writer with the Morobe Development Foundation, both affiliated with the United Nations Volunteer Program. Now a Grant Writer and Researcher at Latincouver, she leverages her skills in analysis, policy evaluation, and writing to secure funding for initiatives supporting the Latin American community in Canada. In her free time, Sofia enjoys traveling, reading, and exploring new cuisines.
Paloma Morales is the LAHM project coordinator since 2021, which was a resounding success. Since 2018 she has collaborated in the art and culture area of the festival serving as curator of the festival’s art installations. Paloma has experience organizing events focused on culture and arts since 1997 in Mexico, UK, Australia and Canada promoting Mexico and Latin America in these countries. Her background in journalism, digital communication and marketing have helped her to have a better vision in the connection of different cultures. Paloma has also been a community manager for Latincouver and Carnaval del Sol, as well as a facilitator of workshops related to Pre-Hispanic culture.
Claudia is a passionate finance professional with an MBA and 22 years in financial and technology sectors, specializing in strategic business design. She has supported Latincouver’s project team in planning and executing impactful events, and now contributes to organizational growth through financial management. Driven by a love for numbers, adventure sports, and personal growth, Claudia aims to create high-value strategies and dynamic collaborations
I’m Christian, born in Sergipe, Brazil, and hold a Business Administration degree from Anhembi Morumbi University. My journey at Latincouver began in the fall of 2023 when I took on the role of Social Media Coordinator. My favorite hobby encompasses everything related to art, from painting canvases to making carpets and, soon, exploring clay.For me, being at Latincouver is more than just performing duties; it’s about contributing to every Latin American and future generation present in Canada, providing them with a sense of warmth, confidence, and recognition of their roots.
Santiago is originally from Bogotá, Colombia, and moved to Vancouver in September 2024. He studied Business Administration with a minor in Sustainability and Circular Economy. He has experience in Trade Marketing and Customer Experience in the food industry, as well as in Business Development. In his free time, he enjoys watching soccer and going on hikes.
Stefhania is an economist and MBA graduate with over five years of experience in research, data analysis, and strategic business design within public and nonprofit sectors. She is skilled in driving operational efficiency, fostering cross-sector collaborations, and developing strategies that support organizational growth. Outside of work, she enjoys staying active through sports, exploring new destinations, and watching movies.
Catalina is an Audiovisual Communicator specialized in Television with strong experience in production. Passionate about wildlife conservation and handmade crafts, she joined Latincouver in September 2024 as a marketing volunteer creating digital content. Since August 2025, she has taken on a new challenge as a producer, coordinating markets, workshops, shows, and cultural activities that connect and empower the Latino community. Guided by her love for animals, the planet and the Latino Community, Catalina blends creativity, digital expertise, and sustainability in every project she leads.
Vitoria is a Brazilian Graphic Designer and Content Creator with experience in video editing. She joined Latincouver in January 2025 as a volunteer content creator, where she assisted not only in all steps of post-production but also in the creation of content. She now foresees the creation of new content for social media and its production. Inspired by her passion for art and Latin America’s rich and diverse culture, she turns it.
Stephanye Nóro joined Latincouver in June 2024 as an Administrative Assistant, soon transitioning to a Project Assistant role in the Vaccination Program. Originally from São Paulo, Brazil, Stephanye holds a degree in Biomedical Science from Centro Universitário São Camilo. Before moving to Vancouver in April 2023, she worked in blood banking, bringing a wealth of healthcare experience and a dedication to community health to her role at Latincouve
