Robert Zed Young Health Leader Award

The awards nomination campaign will launch on October 1, at which time the online nomination form and the nomination template will become available.

The Award

The Robert Zed Young Health Leader Award is presented to a Canadian healthcare leader who has demonstrated leadership in the effectiveness and sustainability of Canada’s health system. The winner will receive an etched glass trophy. The recipient will also receive paid travel and accommodations to attend the College’s Honouring Health Leadership event, and a complimentary registration to the CCHL National Conference.

Eligibility

Nominations are invited for leaders, age 40 or younger and must satisfy the following criteria:

  • be a member of the College, and must be a CHE or a CHE candidate;
  • has, in the last 5-10 years, shown leadership growth and advancement in their healthcare career;
  • demonstrates potential for senior healthcare leadership positions in the future, in any area of health services, including public health, health prevention, health promotion, acute care, long term care, rehabilitation, mental health and drug dependency services, national, provincial or local health organizations, health charities, private sector health organizations or any related area; and
  • has demonstrated outstanding vision and leadership through a project, program, publication, community involvement, philanthropy, or other activity that has resulted in measurable improvements within their organization and/or within the health system.

Nominations

Nominations must be made by a member of the College.

We are asking nominators to submit their nomination in two sections. Section A, which is to be submitted by November 30, is a 250 word summary. The summary should touch on the eligibility criteria and illustrate why you feel that the nominee should win this award. The summaries will be reviewed by the selection committee and a short list of top contenders will be formed. Those on the shortlist will be asked to complete Section B of the nomination. This section is due on February 1.

2024 Recipient: Melissa Toews, CHE

Melissa Toews, CHE

At just 34 years old, Melissa’s early life was marked by the challenges of growing up in the foster care system. However, these adversities instilled in her a deep understanding of the importance of access to quality healthcare, especially for vulnerable populations, including the 2SLGBTQ+ community.

Driven by her passion for making a difference, Melissa pursued a career in healthcare, starting as a dedicated healthcare assistant and eventually becoming a Registered Psychiatric Nurse. Her unwavering determination propelled her through the ranks, culminating in her current role as Executive Director, Long-Term Care at AgeCare. Melissa’s journey also reflects her profound empathy and commitment to inclusivity.

Throughout her career, Melissa has been a staunch advocate for healthcare policies addressing the needs of underserved communities, championing initiatives aimed at improving access, equity, and overall patient outcomes. Her story serves as an inspiration, showcasing how determination, compassion, and a commitment to making a difference can lead to transformative leadership in the healthcare industry. Melissa Toews’ unique perspective and unwavering advocacy leave a lasting impact on the communities she serves.

Sponsored by:

Past Recipients

Please see our most recent recipients listed below. Full details are available in our Celebrating Leading Practices booklets.

2024 – Melissa Toews, CHE

2023 – Dr. Kevin Wasko

2022 – Jennifer Quaglietta CHE

2021 – Samantha Hodder CHE

2020 – Mehdi Somji CHE

2019 – Nicholas Mitchell

2018 – Carrie Jeffreys CHE

2017 – Lindsay Peach CHE

2016 – Jeremy Stevenson

2015 – Reece Bearnes CHE

2014 – Sarah Padfield CHE

2013 – Amy Porteous

2012 – Jennifer Duff

2011 – Emily Gruenwoldt Carkner

Robert Zed Young Health Leader Award Selection Committee

List of Awards

For almost two decades, the National Awards Program has been showcasing the success of exemplary individuals and teams, encouraging knowledge exchange, and celebrating excellence while stimulating replication of leading practices across the health industry.