This month, we’re proud to spotlight Sana, a Neurorehabilitation Facilitator at West who has been part of our team for almost three years. Sana’s role is all about supporting our clients to live their lives as independently as possible. She’s always committed to ensuring our clients are safe, have the freedom to make choices, and lead full, enriching lives in the nurturing environment of Mind Forward.
When asked what inspired her to work with individuals with acquired brain injury, Sana shared that it’s more than just a job for her – it’s a career that offers continual learning and an opportunity to make a significant impact. Working closely with clients at our West residence has allowed Sana to build strong, meaningful relationships that she deeply cherishes.
For Sana, the most rewarding aspect of her work is gaining a new perspective on life. She believes that being open to the way our clients experience the world is so important because it helps them gain independence and feel connected to the community. Sana’s compassion shines through in every interaction, and she’s particularly proud of a touching moment when a client, in a heartfelt gesture, hugged her and called her “mama”. It was a moment that made Sana feel incredibly proud of the love and care she brings to her work.
Outside of work, Sana is dedicated to making the world a better place, starting with her family. As a mother, she tries to raise her children with patience and love, especially her neurodivergent child, for whom she tirelessly advocates. Sana’s hobbies include reading, cooking, exploring recreational activities, and socializing with friends and family. These activities help her to maintain balance and mental well-being, which is so important given the demanding nature of her work.
Sana is a lifelong learner. She’s completed several professional development courses, including “More Than Words” and “Positive Parenting”. She holds two bachelor’s degrees, one in Science and another in Education, as well as a master’s degree in Science. She’s currently considering obtaining her Ontario Certified Teacher (OCT) license to further her impact, especially for neurodivergent individuals.
Her advice to others looking to work in the ABI field is simple but profound: “Be kind, even if somebody calls you a people-pleaser. Never forget that what goes around comes around. Karma exists, and you will be answerable for your every action. Always think of yourself as lucky to be in a position to make a positive difference in society”.
We’re so thankful to have Sana as part of our team, and we’re excited to see the many more memories she will create with us in the years to come. Thank you, Sana, for all that you do!