On this International Women’s Day, we’re putting the spotlight on some of the female leaders at Canada’s Wonderland who are dedicated to bringing park magic to life. Their stories offer a glimpse into the passion, creativity, and camaraderie that define the park's culture.

Meet Danusia Rogacki: Guiding Canada’s Wonderland's Creative Vision

Danusia began her Canada’s Wonderland journey in 2005 and is now the Area Manager of Creative and Event Services. Her team oversees all creative projects within the park, from creating attractions for special events like Halloween Haunt and WinterFest to collaborating with merchandise and food departments on window displays and park decor.

Her path began as a performer for the inaugural Halloween Haunt event (then called Fear Fest), and through the years, Danusia transitioned into technical theatre production, laying the foundation for her future leadership role. In 2008, as Halloween Haunt evolved, Danusia pioneered the role of Creative Services Supervisor, catalyzing the event's growth.

Her team is comprised of individuals with diverse specialties, and she says many of them continue to work at the park because they love what they do.

"We've been able to retain a lot of our staff, which I think is a testament to the culture that we've created here,” said Danusia. “Everyone is so dedicated and passionate about what we're doing."

Beyond professional endeavors, Danusia treasures sharing Canada’s Wonderland magic with her son, whose joyous explorations of the park mirror her own.

"It's pretty cool to go to your mom's place of work, and it's an amusement park."

Meet Monica Bueno: Nurturing Talent in Human Resources

Monica started working at Canada's Wonderland in 2004 when she transitioned from the foods department to Human Resources. She is currently one of the Human Resources Area Managers, responsible for overseeing the recruitment and onboarding of the line staff for the park. Her favourite part of the job is that each season offers its unique challenges and opportunities.

“It’s like a roller coaster!” she said.

However, what truly resonates with Monica are the connections she builds with associates and colleagues. One particular memory stands out — a colleague who not only guided her through the intricacies of HR but also left a lasting impact on her personal growth, illustrating the profound relationships within the park's community.

Monica’s Manager, Jennifer, saw the potential and took her under her wing. “Human Resources was not my background, I’m a software engineer from Colombia”, and with Jennifer’s guidance left a lasting impact. Monica says she not only did she become a better employee, but a better person.

Reflecting on her journey at Canada's Wonderland, one thing is evident: it's more than just a job; it's experiences, friendships, and cherished memories that make working here so special.

Meet Julie Skene: Bringing World-Class Entertainment to Canada’s Wonderland

Julie is part of the vibrant Entertainment team at Canada's Wonderland and has been bringing her own flair to the park’s events and entertainment since 2015.

Julie's career here began during her time studying theatre production and design at York University. What started as a summer job soon blossomed into a full-time career in her current position as the Entertainment Area Manager.

Julie's days are a whirlwind, from planning and budgeting to talent casting and show execution; she ensures each performance dazzles with its unique sparkle. Within the Entertainment Department, Julie oversees a diverse array of teams, each playing a vital role in bringing the parks immersive experiences to life.

Her love for the park's festive atmosphere is evident and a testament to her unwavering commitment to creating unforgettable experiences for our guests. “Opening day for our shows and events is really exciting and seeing projects you’ve worked on, sometimes for years and then seeing thousands of people enjoy it, it’s really exciting”.

Meet Alison Sanders: Making Safety a Priority for Guests and Associates

Alison Sanders, the park's Safety Manager, started in 1989 in the Entertainment Department working as a character in the Happyland of Hanna-Barbera and later as a sea lion trainer at the Bedrock Aquarium. before finding her true passion in safety. Since 2006, Alison has spearheaded safety initiatives, ensuring that every guest and associate experiences the park without compromise. She oversees the first aid department, the fire safety team and the occupational health and safety team.

Alison cherishes the friendships formed during her time at the park, some spanning more than 35 years, including when she met her husband, deepening her connection to the park and its community. One of her most treasured memories is witnessing a former colleague, once a paramedic at the park, now thriving as a doctor. She says seeing individuals grow and flourish after starting their careers at Canada’s Wonderland shows the transformative power of the park's community.

With each new season, Alison's passion for safety isn’t just a duty – “it's a commitment to preserving the wonder of Canada’s Wonderland for all who visit.”

Meet Ranvir Bagri: Infusing Retail with Wonder

Ranvir, the park's Merchandising Retail Manager, started off as a sales associate. She now oversees shop merchandise and game merchandise, leading the charge in selecting, purchasing, and showcasing products throughout the park.

What truly sets Canada's Wonderland apart for Ranvir is its vibrant culture of collaboration and camaraderie. Here, friendships are forged amidst the hustle and bustle of park life, and mentorship flows naturally from one colleague to another. Ranvir treasures her relationships with her managers, “having someone who had such confidence in me, made me come out of my shell and push the boundaries of what I felt like I was capable of” and she strives to be the same mentor to newcomers.

Ranvir's unwavering dedication and passion ensures every guest can leave with a piece of magic in hand.

As we celebrate International Women's Day, it's fitting to shine a spotlight on these remarkable women of Canada's Wonderland and honour the extraordinary women who make the park the enchanting destination it is.

Happy International Women's Day!