Emily Winmar

“I grew up coming in and out of this hospital,” she said.

“Now, it’s my turn to help others feel safe here.”

Emily joined GV Health in July as the Aboriginal Liaison Officer for Infant, Child and Youth Mental Health and Wellbeing Services, a new role that bridges hospital care with cultural understanding.

“For many Aboriginal patients, walking into hospital can be overwhelming,” she said.

“Seeing a familiar face helps. It means they’re not alone.”

Her role focuses on providing culturally safe, emotionally supportive care for patients and families.

“Sometimes all it takes is sitting with someone, holding their hand, or just being there,” she said.

“That connection makes a difference.”

She’s proud to serve her community in the place she was born.

“It’s special to support mob when they’re at their most vulnerable, to help them feel seen, heard and cared for.”