Vancouver Metro Candidates

She, her, hers

Biography

I am a passionate union advocate who believes in "nursing the nurses" by ensuring every member feels heard, valued, and represented. I understand the pressures nurses face-workload, violence, burnout, and the need for respect at work. I bring proven leadership experience, a strong provincial perspective, and a commitment to transparency, inclusion, and accountability. I will listen, elevate diverse voices, and advocate boldly for safer workplaces, stronger contracts, and a forward-thinking, member-driven BCNU where every nurse has a voice and every voice matters.

Role based questions

1. What do you see as the primary role of a regional council member in a member-driven union?
   The primary role of a Regional Council Member is to be a strong, accountable link between frontline members and provincial leadership, ensuring nurses' voices shape union decisions. It means listening to concerns such as workload, safety, and mental health, communicating openly, and supporting stewards and local leaders. The role also carries fiduciary responsibility to protect union resources, ask critical questions, and advocate for safe workplaces, strong standards, and an engaged membership.
2. What is the single most important value a regional council member must have, and why?
   Integrity is the most essential value for a Regional Council member because it builds trust, accountability, and ethical leadership. Members depend on representatives to act transparently, steward resources responsibly, and advocate fairly, even during difficult decisions. Integrity ensures respect for diverse voices and principled governance. Without it, credibility, effective leadership, and meaningful representation are not possible.
3. How can technology be used to strengthen member engagement, democratic participation, and accountability in the union - and what safeguards are necessary to ensure equity, privacy, and trust?
   Technology can strengthen member engagement through accessible two-way communication, secure voting, and transparent reporting that keeps members informed and leadership accountable. Trust requires strong safeguards: privacy protection, ethical data use, and democratic oversight. Equity is equally important through accessible design, multilingual options, and non-digital alternatives so all members can participate meaningfully.
4. Describe your approach to listening to members who may feel unheard, marginalized, or frustrated with BCNU?
   I listen with respect, humility, and accountability. I create space for members-especially those who feel unheard, marginalized, or frustrated-to speak openly without judgment. I seek one-on-one and small group conversations and pay attention to voices often missed. I listen to understand lived experience, not defend systems. Trust is built through honesty and follow-through: reflecting concerns, explaining next steps clearly, and showing members when their input leads to change.
5. How do, or would, you approach conflict (i.e., between members within regional teams and/or Council, or between BCNU and the employer) while maintaining professionalism and fairness?
   I address conflict early, directly, and respectfully, keeping the focus on facts, shared goals, and members' interests, not personalities. I encourage honest dialogue, so issues are resolved, not avoided, and ensure all voices are heard. I keep discussions grounded in evidence, policy, and mutual respect. With employers, I am professional but firm in defending members' rights. I am guided by fairness, accountability, consistency, and transparent decision-making.
6. How do you balance representing the will of members with responses to uphold bylaws, policy, collective agreements, and human rights obligations?
   I believe representing members and upholding bylaws, policy, collective agreements, and human rights obligations must go hand in hand. A Regional Council member should listen closely, advocate fairly, and ensure decisions are consistent and responsible. These frameworks protect equity, fairness, and union integrity. When requests cannot be met exactly as asked, I believe in being honest, transparent, and working respectfully to address the underlying concern.
7. What past experience best prepares you for this role as regional council member, and what lessons from that experience will guide your work?
   My experience as a Regional Council member and in other union leadership roles has prepared me well for this role. I have represented members' concerns, contributed to governance decisions, and balanced advocacy with bylaws, policy, collective agreements, and fiduciary responsibilities. I have learned that effective leadership requires listening, clear communication, fairness, and accountability. I would bring experience, sound judgment, and a strong member-first commitment.
8. How do you communicate complex or controversial decisions to members in a way that builds trust, even when members disagree?
   I communicate complex or controversial decisions with honesty, clarity, and respect. Members may not always agree, but they deserve to know decisions were taken seriously through a fair and thoughtful process. While some details cannot be shared, I believe in explaining outcomes, the rationale possible to share, and how decisions support the union's responsibilities. I welcome questions and feedback, because trust is built through transparency, consistency, and good faith leadership.
9. How do you ensure your decisions are informed by evidence, member input, and long-term considerations, rather than urgency or pressure?
   I have learned that the most pressured decisions require the most discipline. I listen carefully, ask the questions, and gather the best information available. I value member input because frontline experience reveals impacts reports may miss. I also apply a provincial lens, considering effects across regions, and the province, future precedent, and long-term outcomes. Strong leadership means being steady, fair, and thoughtful so decisions are responsible and in members' best interests.
10. Describe a concrete example where you used technology to improve communication, decision-making, or organizing. What worked, what didn’t, and what would you do differently as a union leader?
    I believe strong unions are built on communication and connection. I have used technology to support both. I organize regular Zoom meetings for updates and member questions weekly. Use platforms like WhatsApp and Signal to keep stewards, committees, and teams connected. This improves access to information, coordination, and engagement across worksites and schedules. I would continue using technology strategically while ensuring it complements personal relationships and direct member outreach.
11. How do you guarantee culturally sensitive interactions with your members?
    I strive to ensure culturally sensitive interactions by approaching every member with respect, humility, and a willingness to listen and learn. I do not make assumptions and recognize members experience workplaces and barriers differently. I support inclusive communication, equity, and safe spaces where concerns are heard. I strongly support BCNU's Human Rights and Equity caucuses, Truth and Reconciliation, and fair practices so all members feel welcomed, valued, and respected.
12. How has your understanding of the principles of diversity and/or equity and/or inclusion evolved?
    My understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion has grown from important values to essential responsibilities. I have learned fairness is not treating everyone the same, but recognizing different barriers, experiences, and needs. Inclusion means members feel safe, respected, heard, and able to influence decisions. Diverse voices strengthen unions and improve outcomes. I remain committed to listening, learning, and helping build a BCNU where all members feel valued, included, and lifted up.

Technical Questions

1. What is your experience with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook and what is your ability and willingness to learn new computer platforms and applications (e.g. BoardEffects, Expensify, Formstack, Ceridian Dayforce, ZOOM, Box, etc.)?
   I have strong working experience with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook, which I use regularly for communication, scheduling, reporting, and organization. I also have direct experience with Board Effects, Formstack, Ceridian Dayforce, Zoom, and Box through my current role. I am comfortable learning new systems, adapting to changing technology, and using digital tools to support effective governance, communication, and service to members.
2. Where and how have you developed your historical and technical base of understanding in all areas of the union’s work including bargaining and BCNU policies and procedures?
   I have developed a strong historical and technical understanding of BCNU through years of hands-on leadership and advocacy. I served as a Steward, Full-Time Steward at St. Paul's Hospital, Bargaining Committee Member, Interim Labour Relations Officer, Regional Council Member, and Interim Provincial Executive Councillor for Pensions and Seniors Care. These roles strengthened my knowledge of representation, bargaining, governance, policy, and province-wide issues, always in service of members.
3. How would you describe your understanding of budgets and financial statements and the general structure and function of BCNU’s financial systems as well as the broad economic picture of BCNU?
   I have a strong understanding of budgets, financial statements, and BCNU's financial systems through direct governance experience. I have reviewed budgets, reports, and planning materials as a Regional Council Member and Provincial Leader. I served on the Finance Committee, Chaired the Retiree Benefits Committee, was a Trustee on the Municipal Pension Plan. I take seriously the stewardship of members' dues and support transparent, responsible decisions that protect long-term sustainability.

She, They

Biography

My name is Frances Beswick, I am a Registered Nurse at St. Paul's Hospital in the Operating Room and I am excited to hopefully continue my work as the Vancouver Metro Region's Communication Secretary. During my time as your Communication Secretary I have enjoyed getting to know so many of you through emails and calls, as well as at regional meetings and events, and I have endeavored to make our regional communication clear and accessible for all our regional membership. If re-elected, expect to see me sharing newsletters and updates about our regional activities virtually and in person, and I look forward to seeing you all at upcoming regional events.

Role based questions

1. How would you ensure regional communications are timely, accurate, and accessible to members with diverse needs and communication preferences?
   I have always been committed to the timely communications within the region. A task postponed can be a task forgotten, so I prefer to put out communications promptly. I also feel it is essential that the regional membership has ample time to submit union leave requests and time to submit event questions so I put out event communications early, with reminders. Information is put out via email as well as on the member portal events page, and posters are posted around the worksites for many events.
2. What tools or platforms have you used for newsletters, social media, or websites, and how would you use them to strengthen member engagement?
   We have historically put out quarterly newsletters, though that was interrupted while I covered for our RCM multiples times over the last 14 months. Now that I am returning to my Communications Secretary role, my intent is to work with our Lobby Coordinator to restart the newsletters so we can share them with our regional membership.
3. How would you communicate difficult or controversial decisions while maintaining transparency and member trust?
   I would confer with my Regional Council Member to ensure the text is clear and effective, making sure the information was accurate and easily understood. I would ensure that any additional information that might be needed for members to best understand context and the decision was included or linked in the communication, depending on specific circumstances. I would also ensure that I included who members should contact if they have questions or concerns.
4. If misinformation begins circulating among members, how would you respond quickly and responsibly?
   Email communication can be effective in certain contexts, and I would maybe use that mode of communication, but sometimes a visit to the unit where misinformation is spreading can be especially effective. It depends on the scope of the problem, and type of miscommunication. Ultimately how we address the miscommunication would be determined by the team, led by our RCM. Regardless of which mode(s) of communication we choose, I would ensure what we communicate is clear, evidence-based and truthful.
5. How would you work with other regionally elected leaders, Council, and BCNU staff to ensure consistent messaging across the region?
   Consistent communication with leadership, Council and BCNU Staff is the best way to ensure consistent messaging. Checking details on the website, sending drafts to my RCM before sending anything out and above all else, always asking questions when unsure. It's so easy to lose member trust with errors or misinformation; we have been entrusted with members' contact information and attention - it is our responsibility to ensure that we are consistent and correct in our communication.
6. How do union values such as integrity and solidarity inform how information is shared?
   As noted in a previous answer, we are entrusted with member contact information, with the express purpose of using it for BCNU business. As such, we are responsible for using that information honestly, for only the purposes of communicating union business and protecting member privacy. That is how we act with integrity in this role. Likewise, we act in solidarity with membership by communicating BCNU business clearly, transparently and in alignment with BCNU values and priorities.
7. Why do you want to serve in the role of Communications Secretary, and how will you ensure communications reflect member priorities and BCNU's Strategic Directions, rather than personal opinions?
   To be honest, it's never occurred to me to, in my Communications Secretary role, to use BCNU communications systems to communicate my opinions to membership. Members have not consented to receiving communications with my opinions, they have consented to receiving communications about regional BCNU business, upcoming meetings and events and occasionally expressions of interest for regional roles. It is a privilege to have access to a regional communication system, and is not open to other uses.
8. How has your understanding of the principles of diversity and/or equity and/or inclusion evolved?
   As a long time 2SLGBTQ+ Caucus rep and the current Caucus Chair, I am well-versed in the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion, but I certainly feel that in my Communications Secretary role my understanding has evolved in regards to accessibility in my communications. Working to be clear, concise and accessible in my communications within the region is a skill I have worked hard to hone, ensure that all our members understand what we are trying to communicate with members.
9. How do you ensure your decisions are informed by evidence, member input, and long-term effects rather than urgency or pressure?
   The sooner communications and event invitations are sent out, the more time members have to be informed or attend, but no communication is ever so urgent that we do not have time to review and discuss the content to make sure we are clear, concise and accurate. I review our feedback forms and bring forward what I learn to the regional executive committee so that we can adjust our next events based on member feedback. We also rotate attendance so that everyone gets a change to attend meetings.

She, her, hers

Biography

I am a dedicated BCNU member with a strong commitment to advocacy, collaboration, and the advancement of nurses' voices in shaping public policy. My background in nursing has given me firsthand experience with the systemic challenges facing both healthcare professionals and patients.
Statement of Objectives
As a Lobby Coordinator, my objective is to strengthen the connection between BCNU members and decision-makers by ensuring that our political advocacy is informed, unified, and aligned with the union's Strategic Directions.
My goal is to help ensure that BCNU's collective voice continues to drive positive change for nurses, patients, and the healthcare system as a whole.

Role based questions

1. What is the role of a Lobby Coordinator, and how does it support members’ interests?
   The Lobby Coordinator plays a key role in connecting BCNU members' experiences with the political process to influence positive change in healthcare and working conditions. Their main responsibility is to organize, support, and coordinate political advocacy so that the collective voice of nurses is clearly and effectively heard by government and decision-makers.
2. How would you identify and prioritize political or legislative issues that matter most to members?
   I would identify and prioritize political or legislative issues that matter most to members by combining member engagement, data analysis, and alignment with BCNU's strategic goals.
3. How would you communicate BCNU positions effectively to elected officials or decision-makers?
   I would communicate BCNU positions to elected officials and decision-makers by combining strategic messaging, credible evidence, and relationship building.
4. How would you ensure your advocacy reflects BNCU's Strategic Directions rather than personal political views?
   That starts with a clear understanding of BCNU's strategic plan-its goals around safe patient care, respect for nurses, equitable workplaces, and a strong public healthcare system-and using those as the framework for every advocacy decision.
5. How would you work with members, regional elected leaders, coalitions, and community partners to advance BCNU goals?
   I would approach collaboration with members, regional leaders, coalitions, and community partners by focusing on connection, communication, and collective strategy.
6. How would you navigate political pressure while maintaining information and union integrity?
   I would start by anchoring every decision in BCNU's core values advocacy, integrity, solidarity, and social justice so that my actions remain consistent even when external pressure builds. When under political or institutional pressure, I would rely on transparent communication and verified information.
   At the same time, focus on relationship-building and diplomacy listening carefully, finding common ground where possible, and representing the union's position with professionalism and respect.
7. Why do you want to serve in the role of Lobby Coordinator, and how will BCNU values guide your political advocacy?
   I want to serve as Lobby Coordinator because I believe in the power of collective advocacy to improve both working conditions for nurses and the quality of care for patients.
   BCNU's values-advocacy, integrity, solidarity, and social justice ensure that every political conversation leads back to what matters most-supporting the people who provide care and the communities they serve.
8. How has your understanding of the principles of diversity and/or equity and/or inclusion evolved?
   My understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) has evolved from seeing them as abstract ideals to recognizing them as active, day‑to‑day practices that shape how people experience belonging, opportunity, and respect.
   Early on, I thought of diversity mainly in terms of representation-ensuring different identities were present. Over time, I've come to see that diversity without inclusion can feel hollow if people don't have real voice or influence.
9. How do you ensure your decisions are informed by evidence, member input, and long-term effects rather than urgency or pressure?
   Evidence comes first review relevant research, performance metrics, and contextual data to understand the full picture rather than rely on assumptions. I then seek input from the people most affected whether that's team members, stakeholders, or community members to include diverse perspectives and surface practical insights that numbers alone might miss.
   To resist pressure or short-term urgency, I pause to consider long-term impact: how a decision aligns with our values an strategic goals.

She, her, hers

Biography

My name is RUBY KOYIKKARA , a registered nurse with experience in clinical care and a strong interest in workplace mental health and staff well-being. I have worked in health care settings for many years and witnessed the impact of stress, burn out and psychological safety on both staff and patient care. I am committed to fostering a respectful , supportive and inclusive work environment.
My objective is to promote awareness, strengthen access to mental health resources to all members. I aim to contribute to a culture of safety ,equity and respect while aligning with organizational and union priorities.

Role based questions

1. What do you see as the key responsibilities of a Mental Health Representative within the union?
   I understand that Mental Health Rep supports mental health initiatives within the union by assisting with campaigns and education, acting as a liaison to relevant committees (eg:JOHSC Committee) and providing updates at regional meetings.
   Promotes awareness of psychological heath &safety standards, respectful workplace policies and helps to reduce stigma around mental health. Maintains effective communication, stay informed of the emerging issues and contributes to additional duties by region.
2. How would you balance support for members’ mental health and BCNU's Strategic Directions?
   I would advocate for members' mental health needs while ensuring initiatives support priorities like safe staffing , retention and healthy workplaces. This includes bringing ember concerns forward, promoting psychological health standards and focusing n both immediate support and long term systemic improvements.
3. How would you promote mental health awareness and reduce stigma among members?
   I will promote mental health awareness by encouraging open conversations, providing education and sharing available supports. Lead by example, use respectful language and work with other stewards and leadership to integrate mental health into very day union activities by providing a safe and stigma free environment where members feel supported.
4. How would you respond when members are in distress or facing systemic mental health challenges at work?
   Listen calmly and without judgement, ensure immediate safety and offer appropriate supports such as EFAP and other union resources. Maintain confidentiality and do follow-ups as needed to ensure the member feels supported. i consider my experience in working in Mental health :Eating Disorders is valuable to this role.
5. How would you work with stewards, health and safety reps, regionally elected leaders, and BCNU staff mental health issues?
   I would collaborate closely with stewards, OH &S reps, regional leaders and Union staff by maintaining open communication and sharing relevant information while adhering to privacy and confidentiality policy.
   As a team member I collaborate with the team to address concerns early to advocate for safe and psychologically healthy workplaces.
6. How do diversity, equity, and inclusion inform your approach to mental health advocacy?
   Diversity, equity and inclusion guide me to recognize that mental health experiences and barriers differ across cultures, identities and roles. I would advocate for inclusive and culturally safe support to ensure all members feel supported and heard.
   I will ensure all members are able to access the resources without stigma.
7. Why do you want to serve in the role of Mental Health Rep, and how will you ensure members’ lived experiences shape your work?
   I want to serve and support members' well-being, reduce stigma and advocate for psychologically safe workplaces. I will ensure members' lived experiences shape my work by actively listening and creating a safe space for feedback and bringing their voices forward.
8. How has your understanding of the principles of diversity and/or equity and/or inclusion evolved?
   My understanding of diversity, equity and inclusion has evolved from seeing it as general awareness to recognizing it as an active, ongoing practice. I understand the importance of addressing systemic barriers and listening to lived experiences and ensuring that supports and decisions are culturally safe, and accessible to all members.
9. How do you ensure your decisions are informed by evidence, member input, and long-term effects rather than urgency or pressure?
   I ensure decisions are grounded in evidence by using appropriate and reliable workplace an mental health safety standards and policies. I will consult relevant resources to produce long term and sustainable effects.

He, him, his

Biography

I have worked as a nurse for over a decade, first as an LPN and now as an RN. I have served as a Site Steward, Men in Nursing Chair, and currently hold the interim Regional OHS Representative role. These experiences have strengthened my commitment to advocating for safe, respectful workplaces and supporting members. I have been actively involved in addressing workplace violence, promoting psychological health and safety, and collaborating with JOHSCs and leadership. I am seeking this role to continue learning, engaging members, and strengthening health and safety practices. My goal is to help create a violence-free workplace where all nurses feel safe, supported, and empowered to speak up about safety concerns.

Role based questions

1. What experience do you have with workplace health and safety, and how would you advocate effectively for safer workplaces?
   As a Site Steward, JOHSC member, and current interim Regional OHS Rep, I have addressed workload, workplace violence, and broader safety concerns impacting members. I advocate by grounding concerns in legislation, member experiences, and data. I collaborate with stewards, leadership, and WorkSafeBC to push for solutions, and escalate issues when needed to ensure employers meet their legal obligations and members' safety is protected.
2. How do you stay informed about occupational health and safety legislation and best practices?
   I stay informed by regularly reviewing WorkSafeBC updates, attending BCNU education sessions, conventions, and regional meetings, and engaging in ongoing training. I monitor JOHSC minutes, incident reports, and emerging trends. I also connect with OHS peers to share knowledge and best practices, ensuring I remain current and able to respond effectively to evolving workplace health and safety issues.
3. How would you identify and prioritize health and safety risks affecting members in diverse workplaces?
   I identify risks by reviewing incident reports, JOHSC minutes, and direct member feedback to detect patterns and trends. I prioritize issues based on severity, frequency, and overall impact on members, with a strong focus on workplace violence and psychological safety. I consider the diverse needs of members and apply an equity lens to ensure risks affecting vulnerable groups are not overlooked.I also serve as the Men in Nursing Chair, where I worked to promote diversity, equity and inclusion.
4. How would you handle disagreements with employers on safety issues?
   I approach disagreements with employers professionally and respectfully, focusing on evidence, legislation, and the impact on members. I aim to resolve concerns through open dialogue and collaboration. When issues remain unresolved, I am prepared to escalate through formal channels such as WorkSafeBC, the grievance process, or joint committees to ensure safety concerns are properly addressed.
5. How would you explain safety rights or hazards to members and stewards in a clear and practical way?
   I explain safety rights and hazards using clear, practical language and relatable examples. I break down legislation into simple, actionable steps and provide tools and resources that members and stewards can apply in their workplaces. My goal is to build confidence so members understand their rights, recognize hazards, and feel empowered to take action to protect themselves and others.I will continue to advocate for proactive measures, education, and accountability to help achieve this goal.
6. How would you work with stewards, regionally elected leaders, Council, and BCNU staff to advance BCNU's Strategic Directions?
   I work collaboratively with stewards, regional leaders, Council, and BCNU staff by maintaining open communication and fostering strong working relationships. I contribute to planning, support education and campaigns, and help align regional efforts with BCNU's Strategic Directions. Through teamwork and coordination, I aim to advance initiatives that promote safer, healthier workplaces for all members.
7. Why do you want to serve in the role of Occupational Health and Safety Rep, and how will you ensure members’ safety concerns drive your work?
   I am passionate about improving workplace safety for nurses, particularly in preventing violence and promoting psychological health. This role allows me to continue advocating for meaningful change and supporting members. I will ensure members' voices guide my work by actively listening, engaging with worksites, and responding to concerns to create safer, more supportive work environments. A key focus of my work is addressing workplace violence and promoting a culture of safety and respect.
8. How has your understanding of the principles of diversity and/or equity and/or inclusion evolved?
   My experience as Men in Nursing Chair strengthened my understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion. I recognize that workplace safety risks affect members differently based on their identities and roles. I strive to ensure all voices are heard, respected, and included in decision-making, and I apply an equity lens to OHS advocacy to support fair and inclusive outcomes.I believe that every nurse deserves to work in an environment that is free from violence, discrimination, and undue risk.
9. How do you ensure your decisions are informed by evidence, member input, and long-term effects rather than urgency or pressure?
   I make decisions by balancing urgency with thoughtful analysis. I gather evidence through data, legislation, and member input, and consider both immediate needs and long-term impacts. By collaborating with others and testing assumptions, I ensure my decisions are informed, practical, and sustainable, always prioritizing the safety and well-being of members.I am dedicated to ensuring that members' voices guide my work.

Candidate Attestations

• I have disclosed any other current union, board, employment, or governance roles that may intersect with my duties and responsibilities as a BCNU executive officer if elected.
  BCIT FSA Union. I also teach at BCIT as a clinical instructor.

She, her, hers

Biography

I graduated with a BSN from the UBC in 2013. First year after graduating with my BSN, I have worked in Richmond Hospital on Acute medicine ward and St. Paul's Hospital on Cardiology Med/Surg ward. After that I moved to the Emergency unit full-time for 4 years. I have also worked for 2 years full-time as General Nurse Educator with Professional Practice. My portfolio was scope of practice and policies/guidelines. I am currently working full-time as Access Services Educator and casually pick up in the Emergency department at St. Paul's.  I have been involved with BCNU since graduating. I have been PR Advocate for Vancouver metro region since 2017.I enjoy engaging with members, listening to their stories and providing guidance and support.

Role based questions

1. What does professional standards mean in a union context, and why is it important for members and the public?
   Professional standards are basis of nursing practice to provide safe compassionate care. Collective agreement professional standards negotiated by BCNU ensure nurses are protected from understaffing, administrative pressure and financial complications from employer. Thus, it is important part of protecting not just nurses but also public. Union protected professional standards are essential for bridging nursing rights to provide safe care.
2. How would you balance accountability, fairness, and compassion when professional concerns arise?
   Balancing accountability, fairness, and compassion when professional concerns will require a different mindset and approach. To balance all the requirements, I would provide clear empathetic and consistent communication. Making sure to listen and provide my support in equal and equitable manner. I will make sure I'll maintain professional, accountable and support members to coach them through these difficult situations to the best I ability I can.
3. Describe how you would approach sensitive or contentious professional standards issues.
   I would make sure to listen to the issue, discuss details in private with the member. Provide the advice and support that member needs. I would use trauma-informed framework to communicate with members to make sure to support them but being mindful of the way I communicate and deliver the information.
4. How would you explain complex or emotionally charged standards issues to members?
   I would ask members about what their understanding is about the issues. Then build up on their knowledge to help them navigate and understand how to deal with these issues. Depending on the style of learning I would use approach that would work for them to comprehend and learn.
5. How would you work with regionally elected leaders and BCNU staff in managing sensitive professional issues at diverse worksites?
   I would collaborate with regionally elected leaders about information that needs to be communicated and use multifocal approach that would help disseminate the information. I would maintain clear communication, remain flexible and make sure to uphold the values and mission of the union.
   Connect and collaborate with BCNU Professional Advocacy Officers will be important step in making sure correct and most up to date information is shared with different worksites.
6. How would you ensure members understand professional standards in comparison to collective agreement language?
   I would make sure to provide regular education during mini-regional, regional meetings and any membership outreach events we do. I would advice members to complete BCNU online module education. I would always try to build on the knowledge they already have and meet them where they at.
7. Why do you want to serve in the role of Professional Practice Advocate, and how will BCNU values guide your decisions?
   I want to support, promote and problem-solve safe patient care and nursing practice at worksites.
   I believe it is important to educate members about existing PRP resources available to them. I will use BCNU values and mission to make sure that any decision I make when supporting members is done to represent union and not myself individually.
8. How has your understanding of the principles of diversity and/or equity and/or inclusion evolved?
   Every decision and education as it being planned should be based on understanding that membership is diverse and making sure that it is inclusive and equitable. I continuously acknowledge the existence of biases, prejudices, and systemic barriers. I want to improve my education to make sure to appreciate diverse backgrounds, provide members equitable opportunities, while creating inclusive environment where members feel respected.
9. How do you ensure your decisions are informed by evidence, member input, and long-term effects rather than urgency or pressure?
   I make sure to listen to concerns, ask what has been done and what has worked/what didn't. I make sure not to take concerns lightly, look at them from different perspective. I would utilize my support system at BCNU office and potentially employer PP office to make sure the decision is collaborative and mutual.

She, her, hers

Biography

I am a dedicated healthcare professional with experience supporting members and advocating for fair workplace practices. Through my work as a steward, I have developed strong skills in communication, problem-solving, and collaboration, with a focus on supporting members and addressing workplace issues effectively. I am committed to the principles of solidarity, equity, and respectful representation.
If elected, I aim to strengthen steward support through clear communication, practical guidance, and mentorship, while ensuring consistent and effective member representation aligned with BCNU's priorities.

Role based questions

1. What do you see as the primary responsibilities of a Steward Liaison, and why are stewards critical to a strong union?
   Working in collaboration with the Regional Executive Team, Full-time Stewards, and Stewards at Large, this role strives to ensure an adequate number of active worksite, PRP, and OH&S Stewards at each site to effectively meet members' needs. It maintains current knowledge of BCNU priorities and provincial issues, encourages member participation in steward roles, and supports the mentoring and development of newly appointed stewards. Responsible for maintaining and enhancing steward activities.
2. How would you support stewards with varying levels of experience and confidence?
   I have worked in multiple countries, which has enabled me to communicate effectively with individuals from a wide range of backgrounds. This experience has strengthened my confidence in building connection and adapting my communication style to suit different people and situations, using a more supportive, instructional approach with newer team members and collaborative approach with experienced colleagues. This makes everyone feels supported and can perform at their best.
3. How would you ensure information flows effectively between stewards, members, and regional elected leadership?
   Demonstrates the ability to convey information and ideas in a clear, meaningful, and timely manner, while maintaining awareness of personal communication style and adapting to the diverse styles and needs of others. Actively seeks input and feedback to support effective engagement and collaboration. Communicates through a variety of media and formats, selecting the most appropriate approach.. Listens attentively to ensure a thorough understanding of others' concerns.
4. Describe how you would assist stewards when workplace issues escalate or become complex.
   When workplace issues escalate or become complex, I provide stewards with clear guidance, practical support, and timely advice. I help them understand relevant policies and agreements, assess options, and determine appropriate next steps. I also support effective communication, proper documentation, and escalation when required, while coaching stewards to build their confidence and ensure members are represented fairly and consistently.
5. How would you collaborate with regional elected leaders, Council, and BCNU staff to strengthen steward effectiveness in furtherance of the BCNU's Strategic Directions?
   By giving clear communication, shared priorities, and ongoing coordination. By identifying needs and supporting training, mentorship, and resources aligned with BCNU's Strategic Directions, I would help strengthen steward effectiveness and ensure consistent, effective member representation.
6. How do solidarity and equity guide your approach to supporting stewards and members?
   Solidarity and equity guide me to ensure all members are supported fairly and feel included. I approach each situation with respect, listen to different perspectives, and advocate for consistent, fair and no favoritism representation. I also support stewards in building inclusive practices so everyone's voice is heard and valued.
7. Why do you want to serve in the role of Regional Steward Liaison, and how will you remain accountable to stewards and the broader membership?
   I want to serve as Regional Steward Liaison to support and strengthen stewards in their role and ensure members receive consistent, effective representation. I will remain accountable by communicating regularly, being responsive and transparent, and seeking feedback from stewards and members to guide my work and continuous improvement.
8. How has your understanding of the principles of diversity and/or equity and/or inclusion evolved?
   My understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion comes from my experience working with different people and supporting members. I've learned the importance of respecting differences, ensuring fair access to support, and creating an environment where everyone feels valued and included.
9. How do you ensure your decisions are informed by evidence, member input, and long-term effects rather than urgency or pressure?
   I make decisions by looking at the facts, reviewing relevant policies, and listening to what members and stewards are saying. I try to consider the long-term impact and not just immediate pressure, so the outcome is fair, consistent, and in the best interest of members.