In Communications, the part I like best is strategy: I can’t execute tactics without knowing why we’re doing it. We try to evaluate every communications method to see if it’s valuable for our clients.
I was born in Morocco and grew up in Casablanca. I studied English literature – I’m a fan of Edgar Allan Poe – and was into psychology and communication, so I worked in public relations for eight years at international agencies. When I moved here in 2015, I had to rebuild my career. I volunteered with non-profits, including MOSAIC. I went through their job search program, so now I mentor new immigrants in my industry.
My first experience with Fraser Health was when my wife delivered our daughter at Burnaby Hospital. Two years later, I was hired as a Talent Acquisition marketing consultant promoting Fraser Health positions with digital and print advertising, social media and events. In Communications, the part I like best is strategy: I can’t execute tactics without knowing why we’re doing it. We try to evaluate every communications method to see if it’s valuable for our clients.
I like playing with my son, 8, and daughter, 3, to de-stress. I tried to surf in Tofino – Morocco had good surfing – but no waves. I miss it, so I started stand up paddling. We also like camping in Osoyoos and Harrison. And I love eating French pastries, like mille-feuille, so I took pastry courses for a second career, but discovered I just like eating, not making it!
~ Bassam Chahira, Communications Consultant, Communications and Public Affairs