Friday, January 12, 2007
Team Member Pictures and Biographies
Enzo
I was born in Rome, Italy, and graduated with a degree in Economics in Milan. I was a banker my entire professional life. In1980 ,when still in Italy, I accepted the offer of a major US bank to join their New York City Headquarters. Consequently I emigrated with my family, that included my wife and our three children, to the USA . I retired in 2000 and the following year I made my first Global Village trip to Kenya. as team member .
Since then and up to the present year 2006, I led eight teams, six of which in the South Pacific Region and two to Africa.
When not spending time on Habitat projects, I fix my house, work in my garden and go hiking. I enjoy reading ( my favorite topic is modern history),drawing and painting. I like nature, the simple life, good books, good music.
Diana
I’m a California native, having lived in New England for 13 years via a job transfer with Hewlett-Packard, my career employer it would seem now after 37 years, but returning “home” and now in California again, after a snowy stint. I have been married but currently I am single. I have one daughter and three wonderful grandchildren. This will be my third Habitat trip, with Enzo as well, and I am very much looking for the Thailand adventure. Skill-wise, I’m handy enough to do many of my own home improvements.
I love being outdoor, outdoor activities, and traveling.
I know that an incredible adventure lies ahead and look forward to this journey with our new team.
Steve
I’m originally from the Midwest but have lived on the West Coast for 29 years so I consider myself a Californian. I recently retired from public service (State of California) after 22 years and started my own handyman business. I was a carpenter before beginning my employment with the State.
I have a daughter and a son, as well as a granddaughter who live nearby.
I’ve been blessed to have lived a fairly healthy life and survived life’s trials and tribulations. Now it is time for me to give back! Because I have carpenter skills, there is no better way for me than helping build a home for a deserving family.
This will be my first Global Village trip. Looking forward to meeting everyone in June.
Stephanie
I was born and grew up on Eastern Long Island, NY and then moved into Manhattan when I began attending New York University. I will be graduating in May of 2007 with a BS in Accounting and Marketing. I am currently working part-time at a large accounting firm, where I will continue for full-time employment in fall of 2007. I have extensively traveled through Western Europe, including a semester abroad in Florence, Italy.
Traveling is one of my passions, as well as trying new and adventurous things. I am currently in the process of learning to rock climb as well as snowboard and hope to add many more hobbies to the list. In my spare time I enjoy reading, Broadway theatre and just walking around NYC.
Diana
Hi everyone! My name is Diana, I am the girl in purple standing between my parents and that is my older brother to the left. I am 25 years old, was born and raised in Texas. After high school I went to Texas A&M to be a Journalism major but after three years, and a summer studying abroad in Spain, I decided to move to New York to go to SVA (School of Visual Art). So after seven years of college, here I am in New York where I work for a small studio doing motion graphics for TV and film.
My brother and his wife just had a baby girl this past August and they asked me to be the godmother. I think that is what inspired me most to do this trip. I can only imagine all the stories I’ll get to share with her that will hopefully inspire her in her life one day.
Traveling has always been a passion of mine and I am very excited to see a new part of the world! I have a ridiculous amount of energy. Not sure where it comes from really… I guess it’s just a general excitement for life. I hope this is the first of many trips with Habitat. Can’t wait to meet everybody.
Toshihiko (Toshi)
Last year I participated to the Samoa HFH 2006 on the Enzo’s team. I had four time experience with HFH.
I was born and raised in Tokyo, and I have worked in Japan and the local district at one company for 33 years. I am 60 years old. I retired from my company (Hitachi) in 2002.
My first hobby is Sunday carpenter. I make a kennel, a table and a brick’s range for BBQ. I like make repairs to my house and others. Now I enjoy diving and traveling foreign countries (South Pacific.). I am not good for English conversation. But I may take a nice communication with you in Thailand by way of body language.
Michelle
I am 43 and have a 19 years old son and 15 years old daughter. I was born in Liverpool, England and moved to Canada when I was five years old. I live in Mississauga (20 minutes east of Toronto) and Collingwood (2 hours north of Toronto). I used to be a correctional officer and probation officer for young offenders. I also just to lead canoe trips for young offenders (Project DARE). I have been a stay at home for the past 10 years. I do a lot of volunteer work, including “Volunteer Builders” which is a non-profit organization that raises money and organizes a build at a children’s camp that is in need of repair or update. I am also on the Alumni Board of a children camp. One of our projects is to raise money to send underprivileged kids to camp. I went to Guyana, South America in April 2006 and to Uganda in July 2006 with Habitat for Humanity. Enzo was my leader in Uganda and he did an amazing job. In my spare time I love to ski, snowboard, read, knit, workout and spend time outdoor. Looking forward to meeting everyone in Lampang.
Kelly
My name is Kelly Jernigan, I am 26 years old and live in Greenville, NC. I have worked as a registered nurse for the past four years, and I am currently employed in the medical ICU at our local hospital. I am working on a master’s degree in nursing, with a family nurse concentration. I have a close knit family, everyone lives within thirty minutes apart, with the exception of my sister who is doing a medical residency at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island. She is a Southern girl at heart, so we all are entertained to hear her stories about the snow! I have two roommates, we enjoy playing soccer, having barbeque, and traveling. Last but not least, we LOVE watching the Steelers!
(Enzo’s note: Kelly was on my team to Fiji in 2004 and to Uganda in 2006)
Jason
Hey, everybody. I ‘m a high school English teacher currently living in suburban Chicago. (That is beautiful Wrigley Field behind me and my sister!) I am 29 years old, and was born in a neighboring suburb between where I teach and where I live. After high school I attended the University of Wisconsin and lived in Madison after graduation as a substitute teacher before landing my current job where I’ve taught for the past six years. I am not married nor do I have any children-125 of other people each day is usually enough for me! I spent a semester abroad in England and have traveled Western Europe, but nowhere as foreign or exiting as Thailand. I look forward to a rewarding experience of helping others, meeting new people from all walks of life, and bringing the world in a little tighter.
Chris
I am a native of Newfoundland,Canada, and currently I am a family physician and ER doc in Grimsby, Ontario. Last summer, I participated in my first HFH Global Village project in Uganda where I was involved in the building of two houses. I stayed in Africa after that and climbed to the top of Mt. Kilimajaro. I am an avid reader and have started to learn Italian. Trilled to be involved in a new HFH building, project, I hope to continue to take some time off each year to participate in such a wonderful and worthwhile endeavor. What a great way to see the world! Looking forward to meeting you all.
Paulette
Sawatdee Kaa (hello in Thai), my name is Paulette and I’m from Singapore, a “red dot” south of Thailand. I’ve been involved with Habitat for Humanity since 2003 when my company organized a trip to Korat, Thailand. My last built was in Lonavala, India where I participated in the Jimmy Carter Work Project 2006.
Apart from having “Habititis” (a neologism for HFH supporters), my interest are as varied as enjoying food to having a good sleep on Saturday afternoons.
It’ll l be absolutely delightful to join Enzo again for the next build and I look forward to meeting all of you.
(Enzo’s note: Paulette was on my second team to Fiji in 2004)
Christina
Hi, I’m Christina (but please call me Chris), at that’s a picture of me on a trip to Sedona, Arizona. I’m from Pennsylvania, but I’ve been living in Atlanta, GA since graduating from Pen n State three years ago. I live in Atlanta with my two cats, Jett and Motor, and I work in television. When I am not doting on my hyperactive cats, I enjoy channeling the Italian cooking skills of my grandmother, quoting Alfred Hitchcock movies, learning about Chinese medicine, and telling really bad jokes (What do you call a man with no legs and no arms who lives in your sink? Duane. Ha!) Volunteerism is also very important to me. As a volunteer, I’ve done some teaching, fundraising, and even restoration, but one of my favorite experiences was building a home with Habitat for Humanity here in Atlanta; it was a very enlightening and rewarding experience. I am very eager to meet all of you and share a wonderful adventure in Thailand.
Carly
Hello! I’m Carly, 26, and live in Denver. I was raised just south of Salt Lake City, but have been in Colorado for almost 8 years. I love it here, but I’m so tired of the snow! I currently work as a marketing director for a restaurant group, as well as the lead QA for a software company. I am very busy, but I love what I do. I have a four year hold son named Justus, who is my life! When I’m not working, I love to run and play my violin, piano, and guitar. (Music is a passion of mine.) I am also an avid knitter! I haven’t done much traveling in my day, and feel like I have waited a lifetime for an opportunity like this! Can’t wait to meet everyone!
Leroy
I was born and still reside in Los Angeles, California. I have a degree in Graphic Design and I am currently an Art Director for an advertising agency. What I love about my job is that it allows me the opportunity to communicate with people through something I create.
I love music. The idea of my life having rhythm keeps me motivated and it helps to clear my mind and be creative.
Traveling is a hobby I want to take up. I really hope to do a lot more of it. I am very curious to learn and understand other cultures and languages. I’m also a big fan of food. I cook it and I eat it.
This is my first Habitat trip and I am extremely exited to meet everyone and change the world one family at the time.
Sybil
A resident of Los Angeles, CA, Sybil started her career in the entertainment industry in the early 90’as a talent manager, booking her clients for feature film, television, and music projects. She also woks very closely with top music producers, recording artists, as well as emerging talents. Sybil is responsible for many hits and collaborations that have received numerous awards including a prestigious Grammy Award.
Sybil is a founding manager and major shareholder in Backstreet Boys, Inc./Trans Continental Records, which includes a record company, a music publishing company, and a production company. She is also the Co-Founder and President of Stonehall Entertainment, Inc., a full service entertainment company that specializes in music, television and sponsorship.
Danette
Hi, my name is Danette; I live in Medicine Hat, a city of 60,000 in Alberta, Canada. I work as an administrative assistant in a Law Office. I have no kids but two cats (Isabelle & Frodo) they are pure breed Korats whose origins are from Thailand, they are considered good luck to the Monks because of their silver color and I may try and smuggle them in my suitcase Right Enzo LOL.
My interests include: drama, fitness, the outdoors, adventures, friends, laughing and I am a volunteer Big Sister to a little 11 year old girl. This will be my second Habitat trip with Enzo, last July I was part of his team to Uganda, Africa. I look forward to our Thailand adventure and meeting you all.
Enzo
I was born in Rome, Italy, and graduated with a degree in Economics in Milan. I was a banker my entire professional life. In1980 ,when still in Italy, I accepted the offer of a major US bank to join their New York City Headquarters. Consequently I emigrated with my family, that included my wife and our three children, to the USA . I retired in 2000 and the following year I made my first Global Village trip to Kenya. as team member .
Since then and up to the present year 2006, I led eight teams, six of which in the South Pacific Region and two to Africa.
When not spending time on Habitat projects, I fix my house, work in my garden and go hiking. I enjoy reading ( my favorite topic is modern history),drawing and painting. I like nature, the simple life, good books, good music.
Diana
I’m a California native, having lived in New England for 13 years via a job transfer with Hewlett-Packard, my career employer it would seem now after 37 years, but returning “home” and now in California again, after a snowy stint. I have been married but currently I am single. I have one daughter and three wonderful grandchildren. This will be my third Habitat trip, with Enzo as well, and I am very much looking for the Thailand adventure. Skill-wise, I’m handy enough to do many of my own home improvements.
I love being outdoor, outdoor activities, and traveling.
I know that an incredible adventure lies ahead and look forward to this journey with our new team.
Steve
I’m originally from the Midwest but have lived on the West Coast for 29 years so I consider myself a Californian. I recently retired from public service (State of California) after 22 years and started my own handyman business. I was a carpenter before beginning my employment with the State.
I have a daughter and a son, as well as a granddaughter who live nearby.
I’ve been blessed to have lived a fairly healthy life and survived life’s trials and tribulations. Now it is time for me to give back! Because I have carpenter skills, there is no better way for me than helping build a home for a deserving family.
This will be my first Global Village trip. Looking forward to meeting everyone in June.
Stephanie
I was born and grew up on Eastern Long Island, NY and then moved into Manhattan when I began attending New York University. I will be graduating in May of 2007 with a BS in Accounting and Marketing. I am currently working part-time at a large accounting firm, where I will continue for full-time employment in fall of 2007. I have extensively traveled through Western Europe, including a semester abroad in Florence, Italy.
Traveling is one of my passions, as well as trying new and adventurous things. I am currently in the process of learning to rock climb as well as snowboard and hope to add many more hobbies to the list. In my spare time I enjoy reading, Broadway theatre and just walking around NYC.
Diana
Hi everyone! My name is Diana, I am the girl in purple standing between my parents and that is my older brother to the left. I am 25 years old, was born and raised in Texas. After high school I went to Texas A&M to be a Journalism major but after three years, and a summer studying abroad in Spain, I decided to move to New York to go to SVA (School of Visual Art). So after seven years of college, here I am in New York where I work for a small studio doing motion graphics for TV and film.
My brother and his wife just had a baby girl this past August and they asked me to be the godmother. I think that is what inspired me most to do this trip. I can only imagine all the stories I’ll get to share with her that will hopefully inspire her in her life one day.
Traveling has always been a passion of mine and I am very excited to see a new part of the world! I have a ridiculous amount of energy. Not sure where it comes from really… I guess it’s just a general excitement for life. I hope this is the first of many trips with Habitat. Can’t wait to meet everybody.
Toshihiko (Toshi)
Last year I participated to the Samoa HFH 2006 on the Enzo’s team. I had four time experience with HFH.
I was born and raised in Tokyo, and I have worked in Japan and the local district at one company for 33 years. I am 60 years old. I retired from my company (Hitachi) in 2002.
My first hobby is Sunday carpenter. I make a kennel, a table and a brick’s range for BBQ. I like make repairs to my house and others. Now I enjoy diving and traveling foreign countries (South Pacific.). I am not good for English conversation. But I may take a nice communication with you in Thailand by way of body language.
Michelle
I am 43 and have a 19 years old son and 15 years old daughter. I was born in Liverpool, England and moved to Canada when I was five years old. I live in Mississauga (20 minutes east of Toronto) and Collingwood (2 hours north of Toronto). I used to be a correctional officer and probation officer for young offenders. I also just to lead canoe trips for young offenders (Project DARE). I have been a stay at home for the past 10 years. I do a lot of volunteer work, including “Volunteer Builders” which is a non-profit organization that raises money and organizes a build at a children’s camp that is in need of repair or update. I am also on the Alumni Board of a children camp. One of our projects is to raise money to send underprivileged kids to camp. I went to Guyana, South America in April 2006 and to Uganda in July 2006 with Habitat for Humanity. Enzo was my leader in Uganda and he did an amazing job. In my spare time I love to ski, snowboard, read, knit, workout and spend time outdoor. Looking forward to meeting everyone in Lampang.
Kelly
My name is Kelly Jernigan, I am 26 years old and live in Greenville, NC. I have worked as a registered nurse for the past four years, and I am currently employed in the medical ICU at our local hospital. I am working on a master’s degree in nursing, with a family nurse concentration. I have a close knit family, everyone lives within thirty minutes apart, with the exception of my sister who is doing a medical residency at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island. She is a Southern girl at heart, so we all are entertained to hear her stories about the snow! I have two roommates, we enjoy playing soccer, having barbeque, and traveling. Last but not least, we LOVE watching the Steelers!
(Enzo’s note: Kelly was on my team to Fiji in 2004 and to Uganda in 2006)
Jason
Hey, everybody. I ‘m a high school English teacher currently living in suburban Chicago. (That is beautiful Wrigley Field behind me and my sister!) I am 29 years old, and was born in a neighboring suburb between where I teach and where I live. After high school I attended the University of Wisconsin and lived in Madison after graduation as a substitute teacher before landing my current job where I’ve taught for the past six years. I am not married nor do I have any children-125 of other people each day is usually enough for me! I spent a semester abroad in England and have traveled Western Europe, but nowhere as foreign or exiting as Thailand. I look forward to a rewarding experience of helping others, meeting new people from all walks of life, and bringing the world in a little tighter.
Chris
I am a native of Newfoundland,Canada, and currently I am a family physician and ER doc in Grimsby, Ontario. Last summer, I participated in my first HFH Global Village project in Uganda where I was involved in the building of two houses. I stayed in Africa after that and climbed to the top of Mt. Kilimajaro. I am an avid reader and have started to learn Italian. Trilled to be involved in a new HFH building, project, I hope to continue to take some time off each year to participate in such a wonderful and worthwhile endeavor. What a great way to see the world! Looking forward to meeting you all.
Paulette
Sawatdee Kaa (hello in Thai), my name is Paulette and I’m from Singapore, a “red dot” south of Thailand. I’ve been involved with Habitat for Humanity since 2003 when my company organized a trip to Korat, Thailand. My last built was in Lonavala, India where I participated in the Jimmy Carter Work Project 2006.
Apart from having “Habititis” (a neologism for HFH supporters), my interest are as varied as enjoying food to having a good sleep on Saturday afternoons.
It’ll l be absolutely delightful to join Enzo again for the next build and I look forward to meeting all of you.
(Enzo’s note: Paulette was on my second team to Fiji in 2004)
Christina
Hi, I’m Christina (but please call me Chris), at that’s a picture of me on a trip to Sedona, Arizona. I’m from Pennsylvania, but I’ve been living in Atlanta, GA since graduating from Pen n State three years ago. I live in Atlanta with my two cats, Jett and Motor, and I work in television. When I am not doting on my hyperactive cats, I enjoy channeling the Italian cooking skills of my grandmother, quoting Alfred Hitchcock movies, learning about Chinese medicine, and telling really bad jokes (What do you call a man with no legs and no arms who lives in your sink? Duane. Ha!) Volunteerism is also very important to me. As a volunteer, I’ve done some teaching, fundraising, and even restoration, but one of my favorite experiences was building a home with Habitat for Humanity here in Atlanta; it was a very enlightening and rewarding experience. I am very eager to meet all of you and share a wonderful adventure in Thailand.
Carly
Hello! I’m Carly, 26, and live in Denver. I was raised just south of Salt Lake City, but have been in Colorado for almost 8 years. I love it here, but I’m so tired of the snow! I currently work as a marketing director for a restaurant group, as well as the lead QA for a software company. I am very busy, but I love what I do. I have a four year hold son named Justus, who is my life! When I’m not working, I love to run and play my violin, piano, and guitar. (Music is a passion of mine.) I am also an avid knitter! I haven’t done much traveling in my day, and feel like I have waited a lifetime for an opportunity like this! Can’t wait to meet everyone!
Leroy
I was born and still reside in Los Angeles, California. I have a degree in Graphic Design and I am currently an Art Director for an advertising agency. What I love about my job is that it allows me the opportunity to communicate with people through something I create.
I love music. The idea of my life having rhythm keeps me motivated and it helps to clear my mind and be creative.
Traveling is a hobby I want to take up. I really hope to do a lot more of it. I am very curious to learn and understand other cultures and languages. I’m also a big fan of food. I cook it and I eat it.
This is my first Habitat trip and I am extremely exited to meet everyone and change the world one family at the time.
Sybil
A resident of Los Angeles, CA, Sybil started her career in the entertainment industry in the early 90’as a talent manager, booking her clients for feature film, television, and music projects. She also woks very closely with top music producers, recording artists, as well as emerging talents. Sybil is responsible for many hits and collaborations that have received numerous awards including a prestigious Grammy Award.
Sybil is a founding manager and major shareholder in Backstreet Boys, Inc./Trans Continental Records, which includes a record company, a music publishing company, and a production company. She is also the Co-Founder and President of Stonehall Entertainment, Inc., a full service entertainment company that specializes in music, television and sponsorship.
Danette
Hi, my name is Danette; I live in Medicine Hat, a city of 60,000 in Alberta, Canada. I work as an administrative assistant in a Law Office. I have no kids but two cats (Isabelle & Frodo) they are pure breed Korats whose origins are from Thailand, they are considered good luck to the Monks because of their silver color and I may try and smuggle them in my suitcase Right Enzo LOL.
My interests include: drama, fitness, the outdoors, adventures, friends, laughing and I am a volunteer Big Sister to a little 11 year old girl. This will be my second Habitat trip with Enzo, last July I was part of his team to Uganda, Africa. I look forward to our Thailand adventure and meeting you all.
# posted by Enzo : 8:47 PM
