DEI-B

For Rabiah, being featured in BCHS’ I Belong campaign during Black History Month is more than recognition—it’s a celebration of African heritage, community, and identity. From the togetherness of Nyama Choma festivals to the comfort of shared meals like Ugali, these traditions reflect the power of food, music, and celebration to bring people together across backgrounds.

Angela’s connection to BCHS began with a deeply personal experience. More than three years ago, her son faced a mental health crisis that brought them to Brantford General Hospital. “It was traumatizing for both of us,” she recalls. “That experience showed me the gaps in care but also the potential for something more holistic.”

For Raj, belonging isn’t about fitting into a single category. It’s about honouring the many experiences, cultures, and influences that shape who we are and recognizing that these identities evolve over time.

When Bhrigu Bagga left Delhi and moved to Canada, he came alone. No family waiting, no job lined up, no certainty about what would follow. Wanting to make a difference and do work that matters, he eventually found himself in public service, healthcare in particular.

For Darren, belonging isn’t about fitting in—it’s about being seen as a whole person. Professionally, he has a strong clinical and technical expertise in healthcare; personally, his journey is shaped by his Trinidadian heritage and guided by his spiritual values.

For Lia Salam-White, the journey to belonging isn’t just about where you end up – it’s also about what you leave behind. “There’s something about being a refugee and seeing how much support people need. That stays with you,” she reflects.

For Zariah Tonkin, the journey toward living authentically was not defined by one big moment. It was a quiet series of truths, slowly surfacing over time. "I’ve always known something felt different," she says. "Since I was very young, I could tell that how I saw myself didn’t quite match how others saw me."

Michelle Bomberry’s journey to Brant Community Healthcare System (BCHS) is shaped by deep cultural roots, lived experience, and a lifelong commitment to education and community care. As Manager of Indigenous Health Services, she brings clarity, compassion, and a calm strength to her role, offering a perspective shaped by both academic study and personal connection.

Born in Oakville and raised in a Czech-Canadian family, Dr. Kalina Samji grew up at the intersection of multiple cultures and identities. “I’m gay. I’m the child of a refugee. And I’ve worked in institutions where that wasn’t always safe to say out loud,” he shares. “Those experiences shape how I lead. I can’t untangle them from the work.”

For Cindy, home has never just been a location – it’s a feeling shaped by culture, food, language, love, and faith, all interwoven into everyday life. Recognizing the importance of seeing yourself reflected in your workplace and in your community, Cindy is sharing her story with the hopes of fostering a culture of belonging around her.