Cristina Garcia - Room Attendant, Chile

One month into her second year at The Banff Centre and Cristina Garcia is still excited. Originally coming to the Centre via the International Experience Canada program she is now sponsored under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program.    Studying hospitality management in South America, Christina has also worked as a supervisor in food & beverage; responsible for organizing large events at a resort hotel in Chile.  There were a lot of details, logistics, and stress that came with her previous role.  She is enjoying the change of pace that this experience allows her.   

“My work, cleaning the guest rooms, is physical but not stressful.  It’s my vacation - with pay.”

When looking for different possibilities of coming to work in Canada Cristina found that her job offer from The Banff Centre was unique.  Unlike other organizations she could come and work for a solid year here.

“I didn’t want to continue to change around.  I’m happy to have something stable.”

Staying in staff accommodation, which is provided at an affordable rate on campus, Cristina enjoys the social side of being able to visit with friends and co-workers in the evenings.   She has made many friends in Banff, both from Chile and from around the world.   Even at work she continues to enjoy the social side of her role.  Meeting and conversing with guests from different countries and cultures has been a real benefit of working at The Banff Centre.   In Chile, she tells me, it’s not the same kind of relationship that is encouraged with co-workers and supervisors.  She is very happy to be working in such a supportive environment and have such positive relationships with her team.  

When asked how this role is helping her career more forward she responds very thoughtfully.

“Learning English is very important to me, especially for when I go back to my home country. 
You can get the better jobs in Chile if you know English.”

One of her highlights working for The Banff Centre is the Staff Holiday Party.  Cristina had so much fun at last years’ party and is already looking forward to the upcoming celebrations this December. 

“It is so fun to get dressed up and enjoy a nice dinner and a night of dancing with friends.”