April 23rd is Administrative Professionals Day, a time to celebrate the incredible work our administrative team does behind the scenes each and every day. At Holland Bloorview, administrative professionals are the backbone of our organization. They keep our operations running smoothly, support clients and families, and help create a healthy, connected workplace. 

At Holland Bloorview we are committed to building connection, fostering belonging and empowering a thriving, diverse team. Today, we are proud to honour the dedication, compassion, and excellence of our administrative professionals. Their contributions are essential to maintaining an inclusive and supportive environment for all team members as well as the clients and families we serve. 

To mark this important day, some of our administrative team members shared what working at Holland Bloorview means to them:

"What I like most about Holland Bloorview is the inclusive and supportive environment we have here. As a newcomer to Canada, I've always felt warmly welcomed by my colleagues and managers. It's inspiring to work with such a dedicated team where we can improve the lives of all kids and create meaningful opportunities for them and their families."

Fun fact: “I was born and raised in Sri Lanka, lived in Germany for four years, and traveled across Europe before finally calling Canada home.” - Chamali Rajapaksha, administrative assistant, Extensive Needs Services

"What I love most about working here is the sense of purpose that comes with being a part of something bigger than myself. Even though I'm not directly involved in client care, I see how my work behind the scenes supports my team and the children and families we serve - whether I'm scheduling crucial meetings, organizing events, or managing complex departmental projects, I know that every task I do contributes to our hospital's mission." 

Fun fact: “I have travelled to several countries for free!” - Simone Murray-Binns, divisional coordinator and senior executive assistant, people and culture

"I love working at Holland Bloorview because I get to work with students. They're excited, enthusiastic, and they keep my love for my job alive.”

Fun fact: “I met my husband here, and a week after our wedding, we came back and had photos taken in our attire. It was such a lovely memory to add to our story." - Elizabeth Goessaert, executive assistant, teaching and learning

"The best part of my job is definitely the problem-solving aspect. Every day brings different challenges, and I love finding creative ways to make things run more smoothly. There's something really satisfying about creating order from chaos and watching how small improvements can make a big impact on our team's work.”

Fun fact: "I was spiking volleyballs at the provincial level!" - Dezarre Williams-Graham, executive assistant, collaborative practice

“I enjoy the sense of purpose and impact. It's a great place to work, with wonderful people and a collaborative environment where everyone helps each other. I've had amazing experiences with colleagues. We're a good team, always uplifting, teaching, and learning from each other."

Fun fact: “I'm a seamstress. There's nothing more satisfying than taking a plain piece of cloth and creating something wearable. I especially enjoy making formal dresses” - Tima Nakhuda, executive assistant, medicine and academic affairs

“I really enjoy working with smart, caring, and dedicated people. Holland Bloorview is a learning health system, which fosters an environment of curiosity. There’s always an opportunity to gain knowledge, whether it’s through independent learning via professional development, improving processes when collaborating with a coworker, or attending the various resource groups and webinars. I’m proud to be part of the team.”

Fun fact: “I have an eclectic taste in music and I enjoy playing guitar” - Sarah Ahmad, executive assistant to senior director, extensive needs service, psychopharmacology and inclusion programs & to clinical operations manager, ambulatory care services

“I really enjoy helping other people, whether it's assisting a client or helping a colleague with an administrative challenge and coming up with a novel solution."

Fun fact: "Right now, I'm working on becoming a professional pickleball player! I play it on the weekends and I'm having a lot of fun." - Khary Lumley, executive assistant, programs and services

“I enjoy engaging with people. I am surrounded by educators and therapists who work in our programs, and I always cherish and enjoy working with families. I'm usually the first point of contact for families entering our programs, and I truly enjoy building relationships with them. Seeing them come through the door every day brings me real joy. And, of course, my team is wonderful."

Fun fact: “I've been working for Holland Bloorview for almost 25 years now. I’ve had the privilege to work in almost all the programs and services that are part of early learning and development.” - Silvia Souto, executive assistant, early learning and development

“The joy on the children’s faces as they walk by during their daily routine school walks and the busy atmosphere at reception is what I love about working here!”

Fun fact: “I have been a part of HB since I was nine years old. This is home to me and some staff that are still working here are like family to me, which is something very dear to my heart” - Joanna Miedzik, receptionist

“What I enjoy most about working at Holland Bloorview are the people. I have the privilege of working with an exceptional team of individuals who are both passionate and collaborative, making each day rewarding and engaging. Furthermore, I am grateful for the professional growth opportunities available to me. As we collectively strive to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children with disabilities, it is their resilience that is a constant source of inspiration to me.”

Fun fact: “I’m a mom of three who enjoys spending summer evenings by the lake fishing” - Michelle Gouveia, executive assistant, senior director of inpatient rehab & CCC

As we celebrate Administrative Professionals Day, we extend our heartfelt thanks to each and every member of our incredible administrative team. Your dedication, creativity, and compassion resonate throughout Holland Bloorview and your behind-the-scenes efforts make a lasting impact on the lives of our clients, families, and colleagues. You are an essential part of what makes our hospital such a special place to work and grow. Thank you for all that you do — today and every day. We truly appreciate you!

Interested in joining an exceptional team at Canada’s leading pediatric rehabilitation teaching hospital, check out our working with us webpage.