Celebrating Our 2025-2026 Champions of Care Winners
Circle of Care is excited to celebrate the winners of the Champions of Care Awards—our annual recognition program that highlights employees who consistently go above and beyond their duties.
We received many nominations this year—from colleagues, community members, clients, and families—for employees who embody Circle of Care’s core values of community, respect, excellence, and dignity. We proudly announce the following 2025–2026 Champions of Care Award winners for their meaningful impact, care, and support:
Alena B., Homemaker
Alena received the Champions of Care Award for her exceptional person-centred care and support. This achievement is especially remarkable as it marks her second consecutive year receiving this honour, an extraordinary testament to her ongoing excellence and dedication. For this year’s award, she was nominated by her client Rose and husband Eli for being a steady, compassionate presence in their lives.
“Alena has become an essential source of emotional support for our entire family, providing reassurance in moments when we feel overwhelmed,” shared Rose. “She brings humanity and warmth into every aspect of our care.”
Through the ongoing medical challenges they’ve faced, Alena’s attentiveness and kindness have made a profound difference for their family. Her ability to anticipate the family’s needs, share thoughtful observations, and apply her clinical skills has made Alena a truly outstanding recipient of the Champions of Care Award.
Terri B., Team Lead – Operations
Terri was awarded the Champions of Care Award for her exceptional service, expertise, and thoughtful advice to both colleagues and clients. As a Team Lead, Terri supports day-to-day operations while leading with exceptional customer service skills.
No matter her workload, Terri consistently shows up for others. “She’s always there and offers support when you most need it,” shares Service Coordinator, and colleague, Elena O. “When we had a challenging customer service situation, she advised and provided solutions. She’s able to juggle multiple requests at once and never hesitates to help, every day.”
Caregiver Mario B. also nominated Terri for her support through his mother’s aging journey into her 90s. “I feel the biggest reason she still has fight in her is because of the care she receives from Circle of Care. Terri’s help has given my mom dignity,” shares Mario.
Through her guidance and proactive initiative, Terri builds strong relationships rooted in trust. Her extensive knowledge in care further strengthens her ability to support and elevate others as a Champion of Care.
Gilyana B., Personal Support Worker
In recognition of her deep commitment to compassionate and person-centred care, Gilyana received the Champions of Care Award. Gilyana’s care goes beyond essential tasks, taking the lead to ensure clients feel comfortable and supported.
“She pays close attention to my needs, anticipates problems, and finds thoughtful solutions that make my life safer and more comfortable,” shares client Zhanna Z. “Living alone can sometimes feel isolating. Her presence brings warmth, conversation, and encouragement.”
By caring for clients with excellence, professionalism, and initiative, Gilyana steps up to improve her clients’ quality of life—consistently embodying exactly what it means to be a Champion of Care.
Divya D., Client Services Supervisor
Divya was nominated by three colleagues for her commitment to quality and continuous improvement, setting a strong example for others to follow as a Champion of Care Award winner.
“Divya is committed to contributing extra time and energy to improve workflows and enhance both peer and client experiences,” shares Olga B., Manager, Client Services.
She’s known for fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for new staff as well. “Recently, when a couple new team members joined at the same time, she voluntarily adjusted her own schedule to ensure each of them received thorough, hands-on training,” shares Jen M., Human Resources Generalist.
Evgenia T., Client Services Supervisor, shares a similar sentiment, “Divya was absolutely wonderful in teaching me as I transitioned into my new role, on top of taking care of her own caseload.” Whether mentoring a new hire or coaching an experienced team member, Divya approaches every interaction with empathy and professionalism.
Samickshya S., Personal Support Worker
Samickshya has been awarded the Champions of Care Award in recognition of her exceptional care and commitment. “She demonstrates a combination of clinical awareness, compassion, and adaptability, allowing her to provide care that is truly individualized and responsive to each client’s needs,” shares Divya D., Client Services Supervisor.
Additionally, Ontario Health atHome formally commended Samickshya through a written letter after receiving exceptional feedback from a client—an uncommon level of recognition, but one that truly emphasizes Samickshya’s impact.
Divya D. adds, “Samickshya consistently delivers care that not only meets expectations but elevates the entire client experience.”
Samickshya truly exemplifies person-centred care through her respectful approach, making clients feel valued and heard in their own homes.
Vafa H., Senior Recreationist, Adult Day Program
Vafa’s dedication to Circle of Care’s Adult Day Program—from caring for clients and families to supporting fellow staff—makes her a very deserving recipient of the Champion of Care Award.
Her ability to plan and execute programs demonstrates exceptional organizational skills and a deep understanding of clients’ needs. For instance, Vafa works with local organizations to bring in different facilitators, creating enjoyable experiences for clients such as gardening and pet therapy dogs.
“She often takes on tasks outside her formal responsibilities to ensure the success of programs and events, but also the safety and wellbeing of clients,” shares Patricia W., Manager, Social Work, ADP, Hospice & Bereavement. “Vafa’s collaborative spirit shines through as she works seamlessly with her team.”
As a Supervisor, Vafa oversees volunteers and students with professionalism and care, helping them grow as future professionals. She balances her many responsibilities with empathy, patience, and respect—ensuring everyone around her feels valued and supported every day.
Champion of the Year: AnnMarie C., Personal Support Worker
This year, our Champion of the Year Award is AnnMarie, a Personal Support Worker involved in the Sinai Health to Home program—a collaboration between Circle of Care and Sinai Health that ensures the successful transitions of patients back to their homes after a hospital stay through a range of home and community supports. AnnMarie received this award for consistently performing at an exceptional level, and for her truly outstanding efforts.
Transitioning from hospital to home can be one of the most vulnerable and uncertain periods in a person’s life, and AnnMarie has gone above and beyond to recognize urgent needs and take thoughtful action at this crucial time.
Recently, AnnMarie played a key role in supporting a client at risk of eviction, leading with both sensitivity and respect. Knowing that the condition of the home would be an important factor during the landlord’s visit and assessment, AnnMarie took the time to assist the client with tidying and organizing the space beforehand.
“Her work had a real impact on this client’s life, helping protect not only their housing, but also their dignity, sense of safety, and hope during a very difficult time,” explains Muna S., Interim Manager, Hospital to Home and Clinical Programs.
Rather than making the client feel judged, she offered support in a way that was empowering and dignified. Her involvement made a meaningful difference. AnnMarie’s hands-on support was an important part of that success as she represented Circle of Care’s values to the fullest.
Thank you to all the clients, families, community members, and Circle of Care staff members who nominated an employee for the Champions of Care Awards this year. The 2026-2027 Champions of Care award nomination process will open in March 2027. Stay tuned at that time for information on nominating a Circle of Care employee for these awards.
