Q: You’ve had quite a journey—from Cuba to Canada, and now to Cornwall! How did your background in Cuba prepare you for what you’re doing at Morbern?
A: I spent over a decade at the National Center for Scientific Research in Havana, working on the identification and quantification of pharmaceutical products in wastewaters before and after treatment processes. Chemistry has been my life! Those years taught me precision, patience, and the science of solving problems—skills that are just as important in my role here at Morbern. Now, I can apply that knowledge in a new way, developing products that meet high-quality standards and deliver what our clients need.
Q: So what inspired the move to Canada?
A: My husband actually! He moved to Toronto to complete his Master’s, and after 31 years in Cuba, I packed up everything to join him. It was a big change, but we were ready for the adventure. Now he’s working as a software developer for Amazon, and we’re loving life here with our two daughters!
Q: Starting over in a new country must have been challenging. What was that transition like?
A: Oh, it was a mix of excitement and adjustment! My first two years in Toronto were dedicated to learning English—it’s amazing how much you take language for granted until you have to start from scratch! After that, I took a six-month diploma in Quality Control in the Pharmaceutical Industry, which helped me kickstart my career in Canada. My first job here was as an analytical chemist at Thermo Fisher Scientific, and I’ve loved every moment since!
Q: What originally drew you to Morbern?
A: I’d heard great things about Morbern from a friend, and I loved the idea of joining a company with such a strong reputation and friendly culture. And it’s lived up to the hype! Morbern has high standards, and everyone here is genuinely welcoming—it’s the perfect place to grow and make a difference.
Q: If you could sum up Morbern in three words, what would they be?
A: Reputable, Quality-Driven, Community-Oriented. Morbern isn’t just about products; it’s about creating a positive impact on the industry and the people who make it all happen.
Q: What’s a typical day like for you at Morbern?
A: Since I’m just three weeks in, my days are all about training right now—shadowing my colleagues, and learning the ropes. Once I’m up to speed, I’ll spend my days designing and testing new products, making sure they meet the client’s specifications and are ready for production. I love knowing that what we create can make a difference for our clients and the business.
Q: What’s the best advice you’d give to someone starting out at Morbern?
A: Learn as much as you can and don’t rush! A friend once told me, “Do things right the first time,” and I try to live by that. Another piece of advice I always carry with me is to believe in yourself. Don’t let anyone define what you can or can’t do—if I’d listened to every doubter along the way, I wouldn’t be here today.
Q: What keeps you motivated?
A: I’m just thrilled to have opportunities to work as a chemist in a place like Cornwall! It’s small compared to Toronto, but it has its own charm—a friendly community vibe, the St. Lawrence River, and it’s close to both Ottawa and Montreal. Plus, I’m a huge fan of local festivals and our favorite restaurant, Sol de Acapulco, where my family and I go at least once a month.
Q: Tell us more about your life in Cornwall. How does your family like it here?
A: We love it! Our family is big on the outdoors, so Cornwall has been a perfect fit. We’re always hiking, kayaking, camping, and even geocaching. Every year, we explore a new part of Canada—last year was Banff and Jasper National Parks, this year was Gaspe Peninsula, and next year we’re planning for Prince Edward Island. Our daughters are also very active, with gymnastics, kickboxing, horseback riding, and swimming filling up our weekends. It’s safe to say we keep busy!