Pathways to Care 2025: Inspiring Future Health Leaders

What does it take to build a career in health care? For more than 150 Durham Region grade 11 and 12 students, the answer came to life at Lakeridge Health’s second Pathways to Care event – a day packed with discovery, inspiration, and hands-on learning. 

Created in response to high interest from local high schools in engaging with Lakeridge Health, as well as ongoing health human resource challenges, Pathways to Care introduces high school students to the incredible range of career opportunities available in health care – both clinical and non-clinical. From panel discussions with physicians, therapists, researchers, and hospital leaders, as well as interactive skills sessions, students experienced first-hand what it takes to build a career in one of the most dynamic fields. 

Spots for the event filled within 13 minutes, drawing students from across Durham Region and beyond. The day kicked off with opening remarks from Cynthia Davis, President and CEO, and Dr. Nadia Ismiil, Deputy Chief of Staff, before diving into small group, interactive panel discussions, simulation sessions, tours, and hands-on skills. 
 
Students then heard from Lakeridge Health team members across a range of program areas including pharmacy, physiotherapy, medicine, environmental services, corporate strategy, capital planning, and inclusion, diversity, equity, accessibility, and anti-racism. They also gained hands-on experience with CPR competitions, simulations including ultrasound and airway demos, a tour of the diagnostic imaging unit, and sessions with Ontario Tech, Queen’s University, and the Lakeridge Health Research team. 

For Trevor Stewart, Chief Development Officer and panelist, the event was a full-circle moment. Originally from Uxbridge, Trevor had the chance to connect with students from his own high school during the non-clinical panel session. With 30 years of experience in complex infrastructure, Trevor now drives transformative redevelopment and construction projects at Lakeridge Health. 

“I could see myself in many of the students I met,” says Trevor. “It was incredible to share my journey and show them that the opportunities in health care are endless.” 

Pathways to Care is helping students explore, discover, and envision their future, while building the next generation of leaders for Durham Region. The next event is scheduled for April 2026 – mark your calendars!