We witness the defining strength and compassion of women who commit themselves to serve and care for our residents, everyday. Shannex has built a workplace where women thrive and inspire, and we couldn’t be prouder to be among the more than 80 percent of our Great People who identify as women today.

Each year on March 8^th, people around the world celebrate International Women’s Day (IWD) which recognizes the decades of work by women to fight for a gender equal world where women are seen, heard and valued for their contributions. We are honoured to work alongside many powerful women and have the opportunity to share their stories

“As a leader at Parkland, I try to foster a positive, supportive, and inclusive workplace environment where our female colleagues and residents feel empowered and encouraged to speak up and lead.”

Jovana Bailey

“When I reflect on the leadership team at Shannex, what comes to mind is those that hold leadership roles are there because of the qualities they possess, not what gender they are. To me, that is what empowering really is, providing those that can do the jobs the opportunity for growth.”

Michelle Clark

To young women just starting their careers, Michelle would share, “Don’t be afraid to lean into responsibility and take on tasks or projects that might challenge you. Grow beyond what falls under your official job description. Challenge yourself to learn and grow. The sense of accomplishment is so strong when we overcome obstacles.” Having a steadfast role model in her mother, Michelle has always been encouraged to have a voice and stand up for what is right, to work hard and persevere.   

“Sharing my journey serves as an inspiration and motivation to younger women, whether in the workplace or in the community and with the right attitude and mindset, they can achieve whatever they aspire.”

Maria Agcon

Before immigrating to Canada, Maria never envisioned herself in a leadership position. Now, as site manager at Cedarstone Enhanced Care in Truro, she embodies a strong, confident leader. Maria’s daughter is an LPN who is working on upgrading to be an RN, which is a great example of Maria’s impactful influence. Witnessing what her mother accomplished as a migrant to Canada has motivated and inspired her to take the leap and keep going. Maria feels so fortunate to be part of the team and be in her role as Site Manager at Cedarstone Enhanced Care. 

“Our guiding principles speak to me as a female leader-we are compassionate, honest, professional and safe, and they align with how I live my life as a leader, mother, wife, sister and friend. ”

Gillian Hoyt-Hallett

Gillian’s approach to leadership ensures diversity is at the table. “When I reflect on my career, I can identify times when I was invited to the conversation and given the opportunity to demonstrate my leadership skills and to develop them.” Now, Gillian believes it is her responsibility as a female leader to do the same for the women she works with every day by inviting women to have a voice in important conversations and offering professional development opportunities. “We are in a unique position to understand the challenges that many women have and continue to face in the workplace and to eliminate those. I am proud to be a member of the Shannex leadership team and I hope that I have and will continue to positively influence others to truly Embrace Equity in our organization.” Our guiding principles speak to me as a female leader-we are compassionate, honest, professional and safe, and they align with how I live my life as a leader, mother, wife, sister and friend.

“Speak up and challenge the norm. Provide a different perspective. Make sure they know you are there and you are a force to be reckoned with.”

Ola Kit

Ola is inspired by women who are successful by their own definition – whether that be to move across the country to pursue an opportunity, start their own business and put their heart and soul into it, come to work and make the most of their day, and those who are raising families while also achieving their goals. “There is power in words. We must continue to ask questions, push the boundaries and have our voices heard.” Ola is proud to come to work everyday and be with women who are raising the bar. “The joy, pride, dedication and confidence they exude is truly inspiring and I am so lucky to have them in my life.”