The Inspiring Story of Neri Castillo of Tim Hortons Slave Lake

By: Divine Kitchen

Published: June 27, 2025

From humble beginnings in the Philippines to leading one of Tim Hortons' top-performing branches, Neri’s journey is a story of grit, resilience, and heart.

Growing up in poverty as one of seven siblings in a farming family, Neri describes his early life with the Filipino expression “Isang kahig, isang tuka” - if the chicken doesn’t scratch, it won’t eat. After losing his father in a tragic accident, Neri’s mother raised them alone with the help of relatives. He finished high school but knew he had to help his family.

At just 19, he took a leap of faith and moved to Fujairah, UAE, where his uncle helped him get a job. Life abroad was far from easy, filled with hunger, isolation, and moments of mistreatment -but it taught him survival, strength, and responsibility. Through determination, he helped send his younger siblings to school. Today, his family includes two nurses, a marine engineer, and an IT specialist, living proof of what hard work can achieve.

A New Beginning in Slave Lake

While working in Dubai in 2007, Neri heard that Canada was hiring foreign workers, especially from the Philippines. Encouraged by a coworker, he applied through an agency called Mercan. By April 27, 2008, he landed in Slave Lake as a temporary foreign worker, starting at Tim Hortons as a food counter attendant.

Just six months later, he was promoted to supervisor, and over the years, worked his way up, from baker to assistant manager in 2013, and finally manager in 2015. He proudly belongs to the first batch of foreign workers hired at the Slave Lake Tim Hortons.

A Leadership Style Rooted in Culture and Adaptability

Neri credits his Filipino upbringing and time in the Middle East for shaping his values: discipline, hard work, and going above and beyond. But adapting to the Canadian work culture was key. With the guidance of owners Sandra and Darrel Mackay, Neri adjusted his leadership style to be more collaborative and open to feedback.

“Filipinos often believe our way is the best way,” Neri shares, “but I’ve learned that being open to different perspectives helps us grow- not just as managers, but as people.”

Managing a diverse team of 45 to 50 staff- ranging from teenagers to adults from different cultures, has been one of Neri’s greatest learning experiences. He believes leadership is about listening, adapting, and earning your team’s respect.

More Than a Manager: A Mentor and Community Builder

In his 18 years at Tim Hortons, Neri has worked with over 473 employees. He admits it’s not always easy: “You get emotionally invested. You want the best for your team. But not everyone will appreciate it, and some may even criticize you.”

Still, he remains professional, knowing that building a positive, respectful workplace takes consistency.

“We don’t have to be best friends—but we need to respect each other. We’re all here for a better future—why waste time on negativity?”

Neri has been instrumental in transforming the Slave Lake Tim Hortons into one of Tim Horton's top-performing locations, earning Platinum Awards, community recognition, and accolades from the Chamber of Commerce. From leading Smile Cookie Week to organizing staff functions, team-building activities, and local parades, he brings energy and heart to everything he does.

Recognition from Ownership

In interviews with both the current and former owners, it’s clear that Neri is more than just a manager - he’s a cornerstone of the store’s success. Darrel and Sandra Mackay saw his potential early on:

“He always asked questions, looked at the big picture, and genuinely cared about the store and his team.” His leadership is collaborative, thoughtful, and grounded in action.

Keltie and Tim Anderson, - current owners, echoed that sentiment:

“Even in repetitive jobs, he makes the atmosphere fun. He delegates well, keeps students engaged, and always involves staff in decisions. That’s leadership.”

They also believe Neri’s journey from food counter attendant to manager serves as a powerful motivator for other employees, that success is possible from within, through hard work, your willingness to learn, dedication and continuous education.

Giving Back: Hands Across the Border

Beyond the walls of Tim Hortons, Neri is also the founder of Hands Across the Border, a nonprofit he launched in 2019. The organization supports underprivileged students in the Philippines, particularly from the Aeta Indigenous community.

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Their support includes:

• Scholarships

• Daily meals

• School supplies

• Uniforms

Last year alone, they supported 36 scholars, all of whom passed their grade level, many as academic achievers.

To help or learn more, visit:👉 facebook.com/handsacrosstheborder.2019

"Even the smallest help makes a big difference in keeping a child in school and helping them reach their dreams," Neri says.

Advice to Fellow Filipinos

To newcomers from the Philippines, Neri’s advice is simple but profound:

“Never forget your purpose. Most of us are here to build better lives for our families. Stay grounded. Show gratitude—especially to those who helped you get started. And never burn bridges. You never know who might help you in the future.”

Neri’s story is a reminder that success isn’t defined by where you start, but by your perseverance, values, and how you lift others as you rise. He is truly an inspiring Filipino in Slave Lake.

P.s: Neri currently serves as the Assistant Secretary of the Filipino Community Association of Slave Lake. He previously held the role of Vice President from 2018 to 2023 and also served as President in between those years.