Meet The Okotoks Team

MSc in Medical Sciences, and a BSc in Biology, Nik has over 20 years of education (in Brazil and Canada). He is a tech wiz and is responsible for all STEAM curricula. He holds an ECE Level 2 diploma and helps with operations when possible. Nik truly believes in collaboration and giving back to the community, one of the reasons he founded Next Gen - to support parents in need while giving children tools for their future.

Sam Walton has been in childcare for 20+ years. She holds a Diploma in Child and Youth Care Counselling, an Educational Assistant Diploma, a Montessori Beginnings Certificate, and an ECE Level.  She has been lucky enough to work with children from 9 months to 12 years old, and it is the most rewarding career. She hopes to provide children with experiences, memories, and a well-rounded education that will only enhance their skill sets. 

Shukardeep brings a rare mix of extensive education and pure, playful curiosity to everything he does. Known affectionately as the "big kid" and "science guy," he approaches learning the same way he did as a child — with wonder, excitement, and an endless list of questions. With a strong academic background, he has a genuine gift for making science feel exciting and accessible. He loves breaking down big ideas into hands-on discoveries.

Originally from Colombia, Liliana Angulo holds a B.Sc. in Psychology and has 10+ years of experience in early childhood education. As an ECE Level 2 at Next Gen DayCare, she is passionate about nurturing young minds and fostering inclusive, play-based learning environments that focus on cultural diversity & inclusion. Liliana is also dedicated to building strong relationships with families & actively engages in community initiatives that promote lifelong learning and child development.​

I'm a Brazilian mom of two living in Canada. Before starting on this path, I worked as a building manager and as a flight attendant. My kids inspired me to become an Early Childhood Educator, and Next Gen Daycare is helping me to fulfill this path. I love teaching children about multiculturalism and telling stories about all the countries I have traveled to and the cultures I was exposed to! I am very keen on free play and I'm excited to keep growing in this career path that is so rewarding.

Ana is originally from Romania and immigrated to Canada fairly recently. She was previously a high school teacher, where she taught with innovation and dedication to all ages, but mainly in high school. Ana has also gained valuable childcare experience in Out-of-School care in British Columbia, further enriching her expertise at Next Gen. Outside of her professional life, Ana enjoys traveling, painting, and singing—hobbies that bring her joy and creativity.

Tola is affectionately known as Next Gen's "big mom". She brings warmth and a nurturing presence to everyone. With a background in accounting, customer service, and office admin, she brings a plethora of knowledge to share with children. Tola treats every child as her own, offering patience, encouragement, and love while guiding their learning and building trusting relationships that make a lasting impact.

Originally from India, Omang brings a rich background to Next Gen. He began his journey as a preschool teacher, later serving as an Educational Assistant in a school in Canada. A true tech guy at heart, he loves working with computers and brings that same curiosity and problem-solving mindset into the classroom. Outside of work, he stays active and curious through travelling, hiking, and listening to music.

Laya brings warmth and energy to every aspect of her career as an educator, as she believes that children deserve the best care they can receive.

Caring and enthusiastic by nature, she builds trusting relationships with children and families, meeting each child where they are with patience, kindness, and encouragement. Lays is also energetic and hands-on, turning everyday moments into fun opportunities for discovery and learning.

From a village in France, Mathilde brings international experience and the beauty of the French language to Next Gen. Working with our kindergarten and out-of-school care kids, she quickly builds connections through stories from abroad. Her background on her family’s farm adds resilience and creativity to her teaching, while her warmth and cultural insight enrich our programs.

Tricia brings a warm, curious spirit to everything she does. She holds a BSc in Human Services from the Philippines and is currently studying to become an Education Assistant. A self-described digital native and Disney dreamer, she has a sense of wonder and imagination that shines through in how she connects with children. Tricia blends professionalism with heart, making her a welcoming presence for every child 

From the Dominican Republic, Noemi brings warmth and a strong sense of family to Next Gen. As our longest-standing substitute, she is always ready to step in and support the team wherever needed. Currently working toward her Level 2 certification, Noemi draws on her experience raising two children to provide care that is both nurturing and dependable. Her positivity and reliability make her a trusted presence for staff, parents, and children alike.

With over 5 years of experience in Human Resources and Relationship Management, Joana brings a unique blend of organizational expertise and empathy to the Next Gen team.

As an ECE Level 1, she serves as a pillar of support, dedicated to fostering a collaborative environment. She believes that strong professional foundations and genuine connections are the keys to providing the best care and growth for every child.