BCHS Emerging Leaders Program

At BCHS, we’re passionate about empowering our people and investing in their growth. As part of our ongoing commitment to professional development, we've piloted and are now launching our BCHS Emerging Leaders Program.

The Purpose of This Program:

To provide emerging leaders with a robust leadership development program which will develop their leadership skills, excite and motivate them about future opportunities and retain top talent.
Contribute to the creation of a psychologically safe and healthy organization through effective leadership behaviours.
To provide the support network needed to foster critical and innovative thinking, provide exposure to role models, and develop a strong leadership culture at BCHS.
Create a climate of continuous learning, improvement and innovation aimed at systems change.
Demonstrate BCHS' mission, vision, and values, and champion organizational priorities including quality of care, person-centred care, and employee engagement.

Participant Program Timeline

Apply Today!

Applications open: Friday, October 3, 2025 | Deadline to apply: Friday, November 7, 2025 | Click here to view the poster.

Please note: Participants will need to complete the Building Bridges (formerly Preceptorship Program) before starting the Emerging Leaders Program. For more information on Building Bridges sessions, click here.

These are the minimum requirements for entry into the program:

Two years experience at the BCHS or five years experience in healthcare
Good standing as a BCHS employee: all required learning tasks completed, no active performance improvement plans in place, regular attendance
Direct supervisor approval
BCHS Building Bridges Program completion (formerly known as the Preceptor Program)
Availability to attend ALL scheduled sessions in person

Winter/Spring 2026 Session Dates (all sessions run 8:30am -12:30pm):

Session 1- February 11, 2026
Session 2- March 5, 2026
Session 3- April 2, 2026
Session 4- May 7, 2026
Session 5- May 28, 2026

Read the BCHS Emerging Leaders Program Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Apply for the BCHS Emerging Leaders Program

Meet Your Mentors

Click on the image below to read the bios.

Mentor Testimonials

Lisa Keefe

Lisa Keefe’s career in Human Resources spans approximately 25 years, during which she has held a variety of progressive roles. These experiences include Senior Recruitment Specialist, Team Lead, Manager, and now, more recently, Director, People & Culture. Each role has offered unique challenges and learning opportunities that have shaped her leadership approach and deepened her commitment to the development of others.

“I was excited to participate in the BCHS Emerging Leaders Program because I have benefited from the guidance of exceptional mentors throughout my career,” she says.

“One of the most impactful pieces of advice I received from a former leader was to trust myself and remember that strong relationships are key to navigating difficult times,” she shares.

By recognizing that their support and insights have guided both her personal and professional interactions remains one of the reasons why she hopes to provide similar mentorship to others.

“This program presents a valuable opportunity to give back by supporting emerging leaders, building meaningful connections, fostering collaboration, and continuing to learn more about our organization and its people,” she shares.

With a leadership style grounded in accountability, collaboration, and a hands-on approach, Lisa maintains a responsibility for functional work alongside her leadership duties.

“I like to be connected to the day-to-day realities of my team,” she says. “I strive to be approachable, supportive, and inclusive. I embrace transformational and participative leadership principles, working to inspire and engage my teams while fostering a culture of trust and shared success.”

If she had to give a piece of advice to her younger self she shared: “be kind to yourself, and do not underestimate your capabilities. Believe in your potential – you are capable of more than you realize.”

Participant Testimonials

Click on an image below to read a feature.


BCHS Emerging Leaders Program Pilot Cohort #1 Graduation