Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital (Holland Bloorview) has once again secured its place as one of Canada’s top employers for young people, marking an extraordinary 14th consecutive year on this national list. The hospital is fortunate to have the expertise, the people and the power to transform disability care by training the next generation of health-care workers who provide specialized care to children with disabilities.

This recognition highlights Holland Bloorview’s long-standing reputation as a leading organization for emerging talent – a place that creates exceptional opportunities for young professionals to learn, grow and thrive. As leaders in pediatric rehabilitation, the hospital is committed to ensuring that all staff, especially those new in their careers, have the specialized skills, knowledge and resources to deliver high-quality, personalized and cutting-edge care to improve access and outcomes for children and youth with disabilities and developmental differences.

“Fostering an inclusive, supportive and innovative environment for emerging talent is a priority,” says Irene Andress, vice president, programs & services and chief nursing executive (CNE). “Holland Bloorview’s culture is rooted in curiosity, compassion and continuous learning. From mentorship programs to leadership development and immersive clinical experiences, we’re committed to nurturing the next generation of health-care professionals.”

Canada’s Top Employers for Young People Award highlights employers offering the best workplaces and programs for young people starting their careers. This year, Holland Bloorview was recognized for some of the following reasons:

• Holland Bloorview manages the Ward Summer Student Research Program to provide undergraduate students with opportunities to conduct research within the childhood disability research field alongside leading children's rehabilitation scientists -- the program features a dedicated research day, allowing students to learn about different research projects conducted at the organization, as well as showcase their own research (and dedicated positions in the program are included for a student who self-identifies as Indigenous, as well as a student living with a disability)
• Through the Leading the Way Youth Employment Initiative, Holland Bloorview provides dedicated co-op placements to students who are current or former clients of the organization that require an accessible workplace, including support from an occupational therapist or job coach, if needed -- Holland Bloorview also provides support in navigating employment with Youth Facilitators, who are young people with lived experience of disability
• Holland Bloorview joined the Nightingale Challenge to help develop the next generation of young nurses as leaders, practitioners and advocates in health -- the organization provides leadership and development training, resources and tools for nurses (including solutions-focused coaching workshops), nursing orientation and mentorship, and a strengths-based toolkit for emerging leaders

Here’s what some of our team members had to say:

“This has been an incredible place to begin my physiotherapy career. From ongoing professional development opportunities and collaboration with experienced clinicians, I’ve felt encouraged to grow every day. Holland Bloorview truly invests in young professionals and helps us thrive in our dream roles.” - Aimee Chin-A-Young, physiotherapist, neuromotor team

“Holland Bloorview is an incredible place for me as a young professional with a disability. Being part of inclusive, collaborative teams and having opportunities to take on new initiatives has helped me grow and gain confidence.” - Zena Dia, family resource navigator, complex continuing care

“As a registered nurse I have the privilege of learning from outstanding colleagues and witnessing the real impact of our care every single day! I truly love coming to work, each day brings new excitement and opportunities to make a difference in the lives of children and families.”- Kaitlyn Gardiner, registered nurse, specialized orthopedic and developmental rehab

“I’m inspired by how committed everyone is to supporting children, youth and families, and I feel encouraged to bring my own ideas and perspective to work. As a young professional, I appreciate learning from experienced colleagues and knowing that we are all working together to support families.” - Mikayla Johnson, float social worker on inpatient units

“Working as a physiotherapist here means being part of small moments that truly grow into life-changing and meaningful milestones. Every day, I have the privilege of supporting children as they discover new abilities—empowered by a hospital that celebrates progress just as passionately as I do.” - Emily Russo, physiotherapist, specialized orthopedic and developmental rehab

“As a practicum student, I was drawn to the initiatives that make Holland Bloorview a meaningful place to work. Now as an employee I continue to be impressed by how we support those entering their careers, making a positive impact with our clients through mentorship and learning opportunities.” - Sabrina Savage, social worker, child development program

This recognition underscores Holland Bloorview’s commitment to creating a workplace where young professionals can learn, lead and innovate, ultimately shaping the future of pediatric care.

Learn more about this award on the Canada's Top 100 website.

Learn more about Holland Bloorview’s HB2030 strategic plan 

Interested in joining the team? Visit the Working with us page or follow Holland Bloorview on LinkedIn for current opportunities.

By Terry Mutuku