Meet: Elder Cheryl Schweizer
Title: Elder Lead for the Indigenous Patient-Led Project
Portfolio: Rural CPD
Which partners do you work with most closely?
Rural Coordination Centre of BC.
Who does your work impact?
It impacts me first. This work continues to shape my own learning, healing and understanding — but I hope it also resonates with rural health professionals and the communities they serve. This is why I show up.
Through the Nawh Whu'nus'en — We See in Two Worlds Workshops, participants are encouraged to reflect on their relationships, deepen their understanding of Indigenous perspectives and approach their work with greater humility, respect and compassion. If even one person leaves with a different way of seeing, thinking, or caring for others, that creates a ripple effect that can extend far beyond the workshop itself.
In what ways does this work impact the health community, health-care system, or well-being of the target audience?
The workshops provide an entry point for the courageous work of self-discovery. Participants are invited to reflect on who they are, why they do the things they do, and how greater self-awareness can lead to personal and professional growth. Many are searching for wisdom and tools to support their journey. We are just one thread in that path, offering teachings and perspectives that help people better understand themselves so they can better support others. In turn, this strengthens relationships, enhances care and helps health professionals thrive, not just work.
What do you think are the new opportunities (trends) affecting your work?
More people are seeking opportunities for reflection. There is a growing awareness that meaningful change begins with understanding ourselves, our values and the beliefs that shape our actions. As people continue their learning journeys, there is an opportunity to provide spaces where they can engage in dialogue, ask questions, receive support and learn alongside others.
The teachings offer an opportunity for growth not only as health professionals, but as human beings. Increasingly, people are recognizing that this work is not simply a framework, a checklist, or a single act. It is about getting to the heart of who we are, grounding our actions in our values and working toward the common good for generations to come.
There is also growing recognition that while systems such as health care, education and justice need to change, lasting transformation requires a shift in hearts and minds. The journey from head to heart is often the longest and most challenging one, but it is essential. An important opportunity is to carry forward knowledge, wisdom, family teachings and cultural values to the next generation while remaining true to ourselves and our responsibilities to one another.