Humans of Human Resources: Marissa Anema

In this issue, we profile Marissa Anema, the new Workplace Health Specialist, Workplace Health and Wellbeing in Human Resources at UBC Okanagan.

Read about her passion for supporting others, and providing exceptional customer service, and her dedication to learning new things.

1. Describe your job in one sentence. What is your favourite part of the job and why? What excites you most about your work at UBC? 

I connect, collaborate and provide support or education to employees and their managers, specifically when there is a struggle in the workplace or if an employee is off from work due to an occupational or non-occupational illness/injury. 

The favorite part of my role, is aiding those in need of services as well as use of creative thought to find ways to accommodate or adjust the workplace with the intention to provide opportunities that maximize the ability of all individuals to remain at work or assist them with reintegrating back to the workplace in a safe manner.

 I’m really excited to join a team that values early intervention and access to services, as well as promotes maintaining health and well-being. I love being part of a collaborative team ensuring the best outcomes for the individuals I assist.

2. What is something you feel you bring to the workplace culture?

My drive to learn and grow, and encourage others to do the same. I love to use creative ideas to assist people whether it is with accessing services or breaking down real or perceived barriers. Providing customer service is of significant importance to me, being mindful that my ‘customers’ range from employees, managers, colleagues, insurance providers and practitioners and they all need to be provided the same level of service. I have an exceptionally strong desire to help others especially those who are in need and struggling with their health and wellness; providing service and support ensures that I am giving them the best I can.

3. How do your personal values resonate with your work at UBC?

Health promotion and maintaining a healthy way of life is a huge part of how I live my life. I love that the UBC Okanagan Campus is very walkable and accessible and has various options for healthy meals. I love that the Library has an Inclusive Technology Lab for students and that some resources may be available for staff and faculty. Specifically, with my department and the Work Re-integration and Accommodation Program (WRAP), I love that there is a strong focus on early intervention and promotion towards maintaining health and well-being.

I also feel that UBCO has a strong sense of community which is really important to me. I am from a small northern town where helping others is the way of life, especially during those harsh winter months. Having transitioned to a new organization I feel very supported by the community here and I am really excited to be a part of it.

4. What do you like to do in your spare time?

I love to be outdoors especially doing various physical activities. I also, just love to try new things, whether it’s a new activity, a new skill or simply just a new recipe. I love to ask myself when was the last time you did something for the first time, and then challenge myself to try something new.

5. What is one new thing that you want to try, and why?

This year I am extremely excited to try cross country skiing, both classic and skate skiing. I think it will be right up my alley as you get to be outside in the fresh air while being physical; you can be solo in a meditative process or go with friends and have a socially distant outing. 

Welcome to UBC, Marissa!