More than 150 Durham students attend Lakeridge Health career event; next set for April 2026

More than 150 Durham Region Grade 11 and 12 students attended Lakeridge Health’s second Pathways to Care career event featuring panel discussions, simulations and tours. The next event is planned for April 2026.

The program was created in response to high interest from local high schools and ongoing health human resource challenges. It introduces students to clinical and non-clinical roles in health care.

Spots filled within 13 minutes, drawing students from across Durham Region and beyond. The day began with opening remarks from President and CEO Cynthia Davis and Deputy Chief of Staff Dr. Nadia Ismiil, followed by small-group panel discussions, simulation sessions, tours and hands-on skills activities.

Panelists included physicians, therapists, researchers and hospital leaders. Students also heard from team members across program areas including pharmacy, physiotherapy, medicine, environmental services, corporate strategy, capital planning, and inclusion, diversity, equity, accessibility and anti-racism.

Hands-on activities included CPR competitions; simulations such as ultrasound and airway demonstrations; a tour of the diagnostic imaging unit; and sessions with Ontario Tech, Queen’s University and the Lakeridge Health Research team.

Trevor Stewart, Lakeridge Health’s Chief Development Officer and a panelist, connected with students from his former Uxbridge high school during a non-clinical session. “I could see myself in many of the students I met. It was incredible to share my journey and show them that the opportunities in health care are endless,” Stewart said.