National Nursing Week 2021
National Nursing Week was May 10-16, 2021. To recognize the crucial role nurses play every single day across British Columbia, especially since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, BCNU organized virtual events that focused on the well-being of our membership.
Self-Care Series
BCNU arranged virtual sessions including inspiring presentations that focused on resilience and self care, as well as interactive fitness classes. Members were encouraged to invite their household members to events they would enjoy. The line up included Canadian author, mental health advocate, and comedian Jessica Holmes and notable Canadian Bhangra dancer Gurdeep Pandher.
Professional Development Opportunity
Members were invited to submit an expression of interest (EOI) to attend the International Council of Nurses Congress 2021, Nursing Around the World, taking place virtually November 2 - 4, 2021. BCNU sponsored 40 members (in honour of our 40th anniversary on June 11, 2021) and student members.
On May 13, during National Nursing Week, Canada celebrated Indigenous Nurses Day. BCNU took the opportunity to recognize the union's important role in promoting culturally safe care. In support of BCNU's strategic directions, we ensured that Indigenous nurses would be represented at this international event. Indigenous member applications were also considered for one (1) additional dedicated seat to the Congress.
Congratulations to the following members who were selected to attend: Adigo Angela Achoba-Omajali, Adriana Barrett, Alison Stockbrocks, Anita Dickson, Bridget Marcellus (student) Caitlin Campbell, Catherine Chan, Christie Bert, Christina (Chris) Chernick, Christy Leung, Cynthia Milner, Darlene Paisley, Doris Bohl, Dresya Davis (student), Eugenia Diogo, Gina Neumann, Gurvir Sekhon, Hannah Sutherland (student), Iana Korina, Jeanette Ryujin, Jenna Ballantine, Jennifer Griffiths, Jennifer Samonte, Jonas Kwok, Kay McPhee (student), Kelley Charters, Kiranjit Sandhu, Lily Osekre, Maria Agpaoa (student), Megan Branch (student), Melody Pan, Michelle Danda, Mitchelle Iarah Torres, Nicole Ong, Nikita Paddock, Noey Mkwananzi, Noreen Lerch, Oh Baek, Olympia Dela Rosa, Rachael Kampen, Raina Sidhu, Sandra Dessau, Shawnda Martin, Sherry Roberge, Stephanie Spinney, Su Kang, and Sukhi Jagpal.
Facebook Frame
The Facebook frame is now closed. Members who were active on Facebook were able to update their Facebook profile picture with the 2021 National Nursing Week BCNU Facebook frame to help mark the week.
President Christine Sorensen recognizes BC nurses for their exceptional work and dedication in a province-wide radio ad running May 10 - 16.
Message from the Prime Minister of Canada
On behalf of the Government of Canada and all Canadians, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau commends all Canadian nurses for their vital work and extends his best wishes for National Nursing Week.