Meet the Team
"Our talented, dedicated and professional team are honoured to play a role in your child's development."
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~ Deki Shukla, President
Deki Shukla, President
Deki Nangchok Shukla is a proud single mother of three and a distinguished entrepreneur. Born to a Tibetan refugee mother who fled Tibet on foot as a young girl, Deki’s early life was not marked by wealth or privilege, but rather by resilience and determination.
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Today, Deki is the owner of three childcare centers in Oakville and Paris, Ontario, where her primary focus is ensuring that children are nurtured with love, respect, and protection. In addition to her childcare centers, Deki is also a licensed Real Estate agent, embodying the core values of humility, gratitude, love, compassion, and integrity in both her personal and professional life.
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A prominent figure in the local Tibetan community, Deki served as the Charter President of the Rotary Club Toronto Tibetan. Her inspiring life story, from humble beginnings to business success, has empowered many others to pursue their dreams. As a sought-after speaker, she continues to motivate and inspire those around her.
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In her Real Estate practice, Deki is dedicated to helping her clients secure fair prices for their homes and find the perfect environment for their families to grow and thrive. Deeply committed to giving back, she supports numerous charitable organizations through both financial contributions and volunteer work.
Despite her demanding schedule, Deki remains steadfast in her dedication to causes that align with her values, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to her community.
The Glen Abbey Team
Michelle DaCosta
Manager
My name is Michelle Dacosta and I am the Manager of Pinehurst, Cobblestone and Glen Abbey Child Care & Montessori. I have been an RECE in the childcare field for 18 years and I am a mom of a 4 year old named Aria. My passion in childcare started at a young age, babysitting for local families in my community. I obtained my ECE diploma in 2006 and started my career in Early Childhood Education, becoming a supervisor in 2017. My goal is to create a welcoming and safe environment for all children and families attending our care.
Amy Desousa
Supervisor
My name is Amy Desousa and I am the Supervisor at Glen Abbey Child Care & Montessori. I have been an RECE for 15 + years. My most recent work experience was with the Halton District School Board as an Educational Assistant for 5 years. I am a Mom of a 4 year old name Jordyn. I have always known my future would be working with children and I have had the joy of working with children aged 12 months up to grade 12, with many exceptionalities and needs. My goal is to foster a safe and inclusive environment where all children and families have access through the community to resources and services that support in enhancing knowledge and learning.
Amanda Hoytema
Assistant Supervisor
My name is Amanda Hoytema and I am the Assistant Supervisor of Glen Abbey Child Care & Montessori. GACCM has been my second home since 2017, when I first started as a supply staff. My love of the child care field has grown and I am currently in school attending Fanshawe College for the ECE program. Outside of the centre, I love spending time with my husband and two kids (Isla, 8 and James, 3), going to the cottage and travelling! My goal for Glen Abbey Child Care & Montessori is to create a nurturing, inclusive, and fun place for children and families!