Give to Gain: Reflections on International Women’s Day

“A shift in perspective. To me, it represents resilience, generosity and the confidence to lead with empathy while continuing to evolve and grow. That meaningful success is measured not only by personal achievement, but by the impact we create for those who follow. By investing in others, we build stronger relationships.”

- Ann Vo, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Geriatrics and Ambulatory Cardiology, Mount Sinai Hospital

“It means giving to others in a way that is paid forward to our patients and our communities. When we give our time, energy and expertise to our staff and peers, we are collectively building and supporting a health-care system rooted in competence, confidence, collaboration and connection.”

- Nana Asomaning, Patient Care Manager, Emergency Department, Mount Sinai Hospital 
 

“Early in my career, a female senior colleague reminded me to speak up and share my perspective during meetings. I was hesitant to share my point of view, but she encouraged and reminded me that my ideas were valid. To this day, I feel more confident because of it, and inspired to help lift other women up in the same way."

- Sonia Cunningham, Unit Support Technician, Food and Environmental Services, Hennick Bridgepoint Hospital

“The female leaders I work alongside at Mount Sinai Hospital have created spaces where my education and professional development are prioritized. Through their mentorship, I’ve felt empowered to stretch beyond my comfort zone, grow in confidence and develop a strong professional identity. Their steady support has reinforced the importance of paying it forward by mentoring students and other women entering the field.”

- Grace Martin, Social Worker, Mount Sinai Hospital  
 

“Seeing women at different levels of the organization, especially in leadership roles, inspires me to challenge myself and channel my passion for caring for babies and their families into making meaningful change. I see our trainees, fellows and residents working tirelessly to achieve their goals, and it’s a constant reminder that it is both a privilege to be in this position and a responsibility to support them along the way.”

- Dr. Kamini Raghuram, Staff Neonatologist and Staff Developmental Pediatrician, Mount Sinai Hospital

“Throughout my career, I have mentored a diverse range of trainees and faculty members, many of whom are women and who have gone on to become successful clinicians, scientists and health-care leaders. 

My mentorship philosophy is rooted in providing ongoing support and guidance - particularly for women - across the trajectory of their careers, helping them build a strong foundation for growth and development. As a woman in academic medicine, and someone who has balanced family and work, I share my personal experiences and actively advocate for them."

-  Dr. Paula Rochon, Director of Research, Weston and O’Born Centre for Mature Women’s Health

“At the beginning of my career, I learned that leadership does not require sacrificing compassion. The women who shaped me showed that strength and kindness can coexist. That belief continues to guide how I lead and how I support others today.”

- Marjan Bazleh, Manager, Patient Experience and Engagement, Sinai Health

“When I joined Sinai Health, I was welcomed by a supportive team - my manager, supervisors and senior colleagues helped train me, and gave me the confidence to succeed in my role. Down the road, as new staff joined our department, I had the opportunity to train some of them and follow the example set by my senior colleagues - supporting them the same way I was supported. I believe this ‘receiving and giving’ of mentorship is key to personal and organizational growth.”

- Nazila Mirhadizadi, Admitting Clerk, Mount Sinai Hospital