Mary Altajir
Edmonton,Alberta
Summary
Dedicated educator with over 18 years of experience empowering children, youth, and families in diverse, high-needs communities. Lived experience from the Middle East provides a deep understanding of Arabic-speaking populations, complemented by extensive work with refugee families, including direct support in refugee camps and emergency response during humanitarian crises. Proficient in cultivating trust-based relationships and guiding families through complex challenges while effectively bridging cultural and systemic gaps. Committed to delivering holistic, trauma-informed, and relationship-centered support that fosters resilience and growth.
Overview
2027
2027
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Sales Associate
Ice District Authentics
Edmonton, AB
2024 - Current
- Assisted customers in product selection and inquiries, enhancing overall shopping experience.
- Processed transactions accurately using point-of-sale systems, ensuring efficient checkout operations.
- Maintained store presentation through effective merchandising and product placement strategies.
- Collaborated with team members to achieve sales targets and improve inventory management practices.
Private Tutor – Arabic & Islamic Studies
Self-employeed
Edmonton, AB
01.2023 - Current
- Assessed student requirements and implemented tailored instructional strategies in both individual and small-group settings.
- Promoted language acquisition and cultural understanding to enhance educational experiences.
- Crafted individualized lesson strategies to support diverse learning needs and improve student engagement.
Social Media Manager
Karoun Cultural, Social & Athletic Club
Karoun, Lebanon
2010 - Current
- Designed and executed comprehensive content strategies to align with organizational mission and objectives.
- Executed strategies for content creation and community engagement to enhance brand growth and awareness.
- Engaged with followers, responding promptly to inquiries and comments.
- Trained junior staff on best practices for social media management and content creation.
Emergency Health Relief Organizer
Karoun Cultural, Social & Athletic Club
Karoun, Lebanon
2020 - 2022
- COVID 19 One Body Campaign
- Spearheaded a community-based program to enhance health education and provide essential support throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Designed and implemented workshops to enhance knowledge of infection prevention and public health safety.
- Conducted wellness assessments to ensure vulnerable families received necessary support and resources.
Emergency Relief Coordinator
Salam LADC Emergency Team
Bekaa, Lebanon
2018 - 2022
- Delivered direct support to Syrian refugee families, including visiting refugee camps and working closely with children and caregivers
- Distributed essential supplies and provided hands-on support to families experiencing crisis and displacement
- Built trusting relationships with families while supporting children’s emotional well-being through educational and recreational activities
- Established and coordinated an emergency response team to meet urgent community needs
- Facilitated First Aid workshops and safety awareness sessions
Teacher Early Years
Sohmour First Official School-
Sohmour , Lebanon
01.2004 - 01.2022
- Designed and delivered engaging lessons across various subjects, employing inclusive and differentiated approaches to meet diverse student needs.
- Provided targeted assistance to students navigating trauma and displacement, ensuring equitable access to education.
- Established and nurtured partnerships with families to promote a collaborative and supportive educational atmosphere.
- Facilitated family engagement initiatives and developed culturally responsive programming to foster community connections.
Teacher – Elementary / ESL
Karoun Public School
Karoun, Lebanon
01.2013 - 01.2017
- Guided Syrian refugee students through language learning processes and supported their transition into school culture.
- Tailored curriculum to address diverse academic and social-emotional needs of students.
- Mediated interactions between families and educational staff, ensuring clear communication across diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - English Language Literature & Linguistics
Lebanese University,
Zahlee, Lebanon2004
Skills
- Holistic Family Support
- Cultural Brokering & Advocacy
- Trauma-sensitive approach
- Culturally responsive support for refugees
- Disaster relief support
- Family & Community Engagement
- System Navigation (Education, Health, Social Services)
- Bilingual in English and Arabic
- Effective communication skills
- Public engagement initiatives
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Arabic
Native or Bilingual
Certification
- Certificate: Child Protection Level 1 & 2
- Certificate: Being a Teacher is a Process to be Learned
- Certificate: Teaching with Technology
Timeline
Private Tutor – Arabic & Islamic Studies
Self-employeed
01.2023 - Current
Teacher – Elementary / ESL
Karoun Public School
01.2013 - 01.2017
Teacher Early Years
Sohmour First Official School-
01.2004 - 01.2022
Sales Associate
Ice District Authentics
2024 - Current
Social Media Manager
Karoun Cultural, Social & Athletic Club
2010 - Current
Emergency Health Relief Organizer
Karoun Cultural, Social & Athletic Club
2020 - 2022
Emergency Relief Coordinator
Salam LADC Emergency Team
2018 - 2022
Bachelor of Arts - English Language Literature & Linguistics
Lebanese University,
COMMUNITY & FAMILY SUPPORT EXPERIENCE
- Supported immigrant and refugee families navigating education, health, and social systems
- Built long-term, trust-based relationships with families facing trauma and socio-economic challenges
- Provided guidance, advocacy, and emotional support during times of crisis
- Facilitated culturally responsive programming that respects family values and traditions
- Worked collaboratively with community members and professionals to support family well-being