Dr. Khristine Cariño, president of Tech2Step Canada, creates pathways for newcomers to thrive through networking, mentorship, and career development. Having faced the challenges of career transition herself, she is committed to making sure that immigrants not only find jobs but also step into leadership roles in tech and beyond. She believes that representation matters and immigrants should not just participate in the workforce but help shape its future.

A dentist and educator, Khristine arrived in Canada in 2005 for a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of British Columbia. Just as her academic career was taking off, she became a mother and stepped away to care for her children. Re-entering the workforce was challenging as she encountered the motherhood penalty and ageism, barriers that often push women out of leadership tracks. Instead of letting these setbacks define her, she pivoted from academia into non-profit leadership, expanding her impact nationally.

Khristine found her civic voice at Cedar Cottage Neighbourhood House, a space that shaped her understanding of grassroots leadership. Now serving as board chair, she champions initiatives that foster belonging and economic inclusion for immigrant families.

Advocating for digital equity, Khristine founded East Van Kids STEM to expand access to enhanced science and tech education in the grassroots. She believes every child, regardless of background, deserves access to opportunities that prepare them for the future.

Khristine also became the first Filipino president of the Society for Canadian Women in Science and Technology (SCWIST), leading its national expansion. Her leadership focused on providing visibility to racialized women in STEM, ensuring pathways to leadership roles, and shifting the organization’s focus toward greater representation at decision-making levels.

Committed to amplifying Filipino voices in Canada, Khristine co-founded Alliance Philippines to help Filipino-Canadian youth stay connected to their heritage. As board director and past executive director of Mabuhay House, Society she works closely with the BC government to build the provincial Filipino Cultural Centre.

“As immigrants, we don’t just build a life here—we shape communities. Step forward, take your place, and lift others along the way. When we thrive, we open doors for those who come after us.”