Audrey Zheke: The Impact of Being Seen and Heard

Audrey Zheke’s (Peer Support & Wellness Specialist) commitment to equity, inclusion, and belonging isn’t just a professional focus—it’s deeply personal.

"I’ve always been connected to my roots," Audrey shares. "Coming from Zimbabwe, we place great emphasis on family, community, and the importance of our cultural practices. Storytelling, for instance, is a tradition that means a lot to me. It's how we pass down our wisdom, our history, and our values." This connection to her culture is more than just memories; it’s a living part of her that she carries wherever she goes.

But for Audrey, it’s not just about holding onto the past—it's about how she uses those cultural and spiritual roots to show up fully in the present. "Being grounded in my faith and culture gives me the strength to be myself in every space I enter," she says. “They help me stay centered and confident, and to show up as who I truly am."

The Power of Listening

When asked what belonging means to her, Audrey shared her story of being hired at the Brant Community Healthcare System back in November 2022. Upon meeting her interviewers, Cindy Hayward-Dale and Tanya McDonald, she recounted how she felt seen in a way that was deeply gratifying. “As a Black woman, I’m always aware of how I might be perceived and whether unconscious biases might come into play,” she says. “The fact that they took the time to truly understand me – not just my skills on paper, but who I am as a person made me feel like I was in a place where my voice mattered, and my contributions were valued.”

This experience had only reaffirmed her devotion to understanding and truly seeing people. "Whether it’s in my work or personal life, I see each person as an individual, not just a label," she explains.

“We all come with our own challenges and stories, and when we start to recognize this there’s a better chance that we create opportunities for everyone to feel more like they belong.”

Her passion for advocating for equity stems from her own experiences and her belief in the power of listening.

"Listening is a simple, yet powerful act. When we listen, we create an environment where people feel understood and valued. It’s about making space for their voice, their experiences, and their perspectives."

Fostering Inclusive Spaces

Audrey was originally enrolled in nursing school before realizing that she wanted to pursue the social sciences and social work. “When I switched programs, many people doubted my decision, suggesting I wouldn’t fit into certain fields because of my appearance,” she reflects. Despite this, Audrey pursued her interests and now is in a position to make a positive impact on the lives of others in a career she is truly passionate about.

She doesn’t just talk about inclusion—she practices it every day. She believes that small actions can lead to meaningful change. "We don’t have to do big things to make an impact. It starts with listening. Listening is the foundation of empathy, and empathy is what makes real inclusion possible." In a world that can often feel divided, Audrey’s approach is simple but transformative: understand people as individuals, listen without judgment, and honour their unique experiences.

Creating a world where everyone belongs isn’t just a goal—it’s a calling.

Her faith guides her actions, and her cultural values provide her with the resilience to keep pushing for a world where everyone has the chance to thrive. “My faith reminds me that we are all connected, and we all deserve to be treated with respect and dignity,” she says. “It’s a message of love, compassion, and equality that I carry with me in everything I do.”

Whether she’s offering peer support, advocating for equity in her community, or simply having a conversation with someone new, she shows up as her full self: grounded, compassionate, and committed to creating spaces where everyone can feel seen and valued.

Gango (Zimbabwean Meat Stir-Fry)

15 min prep time | 30 minute cook time Click here for Audrey's recipe.

This feature is part of the “I Belong” campaign, where BCHS employees,  professional staff, and volunteers are given the opportunity to share their personal stories, strengthening a culture of belonging that empowers each individual and deepens our collective mission to provide exceptional care. Together, we’re creating a more inclusive, connected, and empowered BCHS.