News

In celebration of National Physicians Day (May 1^st) and International Day of the Midwife (May 5^th), we sat down with BCHS professional staff members Dr. Kunal Kanani, Dr. Stephan Leucht, and Maryellen Boyes. They shared insights about their time at BCHS, unique experiences, and what it truly means to be a healthcare professional.

Rooted in Polish culture and shaped by a family legacy of hard work, Lisa’s journey is a powerful blend of resilience, heritage, and dedication. “Growing up with a strong cultural identity was transforming,” Lisa reflects. “It helped me understand the importance of culture and community and made me think differently about how I approach my work and others.”

Born in Serbia and immigrating to Canada as an infant, Aleks Ljubinkovic has spent his life navigating a dual cultural identity. At times, this duality felt like a challenge but over the years, it became a source of strength. “There was a time when I minimized parts of myself to fit in,” he reflects. “Now, I feel whole. I don’t have to split myself anymore, I just get to be Aleks.”

At Brant Community Healthcare System, a simple yet profoundly impactful program is bringing comfort, care, and connection to the hospital’s tiniest patients. The Volunteer Cuddler Program, which began as a pilot in July 2024, is more than just holding babies, it’s a lifeline for infants, families, and hospital staff alike.

Born and raised in Montreal, Quebec, Arooj is a proud Canadian with deep cultural roots in Lahore, Pakistan. Her heritage is central to her identity and informs much of the work she does today—as a leader, a changemaker, and a fierce advocate for representation.

As part of the Emergency Department Renovation Improvement Project, we are excited to share another key renovation milestone achievement!

Living as a Pashtun Pakistani Canadian woman has shaped the way Nazia Zeb approaches her work, providing a unique lens through which she sees the world. "My upbringing taught me that honour, strength, and family are non-negotiable values, and they continue to guide me in everything I do," she reflects.

Waqas Sajid’s journey has always been rooted in the belief that belonging is not something to be earned, but something that should be given freely. To him, belonging isn’t about fitting into a box; it’s about being free to stand tall as yourself, with no need to pretend or hide parts of who you are.

 In an effort to advance reconciliation efforts and ensure Brant Community Healthcare System (BCHS) services remain responsive to Ogweho:weh patient needs, BCHS has officially opened Onkwehon:we Raotihwa:tsire Kanakti:yo (translated in the Mohawk language) and Anishnaabe Gudwehaangiswin aachkinigan (translated in the Anishnaabe language) as the original peoples’ family room (Indigenous Family Space) at the Brantford General Hospital.

Alena Lukich (Vice President, Strategy, Quality, Risk & Communications) is more than just a leader at Brant Community Healthcare System (BCHS); she is a passionate advocate for inclusivity, equity, and a workplace where everyone belongs.