Story
Creating safe spaces for all
Dedication to advancing equity, diversity and inclusion is why VCH has been named one of Canada’s Top Diversity Employers for 2025.
When Yasmin Jetha joined VCH as a program manager in 2005, the chief operating officer of Vancouver Community at the time asked her to meet for coffee.
“I remember being amazed that the chief operating officer wanted to meet with me,” says Yasmin, Vice-President, Regional Community Services. “We walked through the hospital, and he knew nurses and staff members by name. During our conversation, he wanted to know about my career, but he also wanted to know about me as a person. I remember thinking, this is the kind of leader I want to be. I have had many mentors and allies along my journey since and it really does feel like you’re part of a family here.”
Part of that sense of family comes from VCH’s focus on equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI), says Sally Phung-Ip, a pediatric social worker.
“It creates a sense of psychological safety for the staff, knowing that you're working for an organization that values your experience. I feel like I have a safe space where I can speak up. I can be honest about my experience, and I feel that my opinions are valued.”
On a formal level, this includes programs such as ongoing Indigenous cultural safety training and anti-racism training for staff and medical staff, as well as investing in Indigenous patient navigators who work with patients and their families to help ensure their experience is culturally safe.
“The training I have done helps me and my colleagues unpack unconscious bias and helps us relearn a lot of things,” Sally says. “Those sessions and conversations aren't always easy — it’s uncomfortable to look at yourself that way — but they’re necessary. I work with a lot of families that are Indigenous, are refugees or newcomers to Canada, and their child may have physical and developmental challenges.
“Having that EDI background is key to providing the best possible care. And on a personal note, I came to Canada as a refugee. I’m a woman of colour. It’s so important to me to be working for an organization whose values align with mine and an organization where I feel like my lived experience is respected and valued.”
Sally Phung-Ip, pediatric social worker with VCH.
EDI is one of VCH’s four pillars that help to guide us in delivering safe, quality care, and support our focus on taking an equity-led, intersectional approach to caring for people.
Learn more about why VCH has been selected as one of Canada’s Top Diversity Employers in B.C.