Ailyn Herrera
47 Years Old
Class of 2020
“Although twenty-twenty has been a year of challenges and uncertainty for many, I learned the importance of helping those in need while making the most of every day.”
Ailyn Herrera is a long way from her first home, but she has made a life with a rewarding career in Fort McMurray for the last 18 years and is proud to be an Albertan.
Born and raised in a rural village in the Philippines, she came to the Wood Buffalo region with an education in Doctor of Dental Medicine with experience from around the globe, including Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
After becoming a Canadian citizen in 2009, Ailyn has resided with her husband in Fort McMurray for the past 13 years.
Fort McMurray residents recognize her as the friendly-familiar face when they pop into Staples Business Depot in her position as the lead Sales Supervisor, where she has worked for over a decade.
With hardwood and dedication, Ailyn was promoted into her current role after two short years. The company also awarded her as a Staples Superstar, which sets the standard for exceptional customer service across the nation.
“The position allows me the opportunity to engage and interact with people. I enjoy helping customers find the products that they need and delivering a positive shopping experience,” she said.
Every year, Ailyn works with her Staples teammates to collect funds with the United Way’s Back to School drive. It’s something she said she’s very passionate about, and it warms her heart to know that it provides students with the tools they need to be successful at school.
Like many Filipinos, she has a strong sense of family and supporting her community is ingrained within her, and she continuously sends donations back home to both.
Ailyn also likes to plan adventures and travel when she can. She is hopeful the future will give her the opportunities to pursue her dreams.
“Although twenty-twenty has been a year of challenges and uncertainty for many, I learned the importance of helping those in need while making the most of every day. I have big plans in the next twelve months to visit the holy land in Jerusalem. This is a dream of mine,” she said.