BC Care Providers Association is thrilled to have received many nominations for the BC Care Provider of the Year Award, with each category celebrating exceptional individuals who deliver the best care for our seniors across home health, assisted living and long-term care. Read about three nominees in the Home Health category below.
Winners will officially be announced in January 2026 and will be presented their awards at the BC Care Awards ceremony in Victoria, B.C. on February 25, 2026.
Mary Domingo – Community Health Worker, Greater Vancouver Community Services Society
Mary is a community health worker that brings heart and humanity into every aspect of her work. Her care goes far beyond routine tasks; she forms genuine connections with each person she supports, making them feel seen, heard, and appreciated. Through her patience and kindness, she creates a sense of comfort and trust that brightens each day. Whether sharing a conversation, offering a reassuring smile, or simply being present, Mary’s compassion turns everyday moments into meaningful experiences for those in her care.
Beyond her daily responsibilities, Mary consistently goes above and beyond to advocate for her clients. She collaborates closely with families and healthcare teams, proactively suggests improvements to their care plans, and connects her clients with additional resources to enhance their well-being. Her reliability, compassion, and professionalism inspire her colleagues and exemplify the highest standards of care. Mary’s work leaves a lasting and positive impact on everyone fortune enough to receive her support.
“Her peers consistently note her dedication, professionalism, and the genuine compassion she brings to her work, describing her as someone who inspires others through her commitment to excellence. The home support team relies on Mary for her dependability and consistency, knowing she can be counted on to manage complex situations and provide high-quality care under any circumstances.” – Yasaman Bonyanpour, RN Clinical Manager
Sundren Govender – Medical Director & CEO, Monarch Health Solutions Inc.
Dr. Sundren Govender is a steady, compassionate presence whose leadership elevates every aspect of care within the organization. He approaches each client with genuine empathy and respect, taking the time to listen, understand, and support them in ways that promote dignity and trust. His clinical expertise is matched by his deep humanity, creating a care experience where individuals feel both safe and truly cared for. Families express immense gratitude for the reassurance he brings, especially during vulnerable moments when his clarity, kindness, and calm guidance make all the difference.
His commitment to quality is reflected in the thoughtful, proactive way he oversees each person’s health. Dr. Govender anticipates challenges before they arise, follows up closely on even subtle changes, and works collaboratively with caregivers, nurses, and community partners to ensure that every care plan meets the unique needs of the individual. His willingness to step in during complex or urgent situations, offering real-time coaching and support, strengthens confidence across the entire team. Through this approach, he creates a sense of stability that resonates through the lives of clients and their families.
Beyond his direct clinical work, Dr. Govender enriches the entire organizational culture. He mentors staff with humility and generosity, advocates across the healthcare system to ensure seamless care, and continually looks for ways to improve processes and outcomes. His blend of professionalism, compassion, and unwavering dedication sets a standard of excellence. Dr. Govender’s impact is not only measured in improved health outcomes, but also in the comfort, confidence, and peace of mind he brings to the communities he serves.
“Dr. Govender is a dedicated, conscientious, and caring physician. His focus on the elderly has given families the opportunity to have their loved ones age in their own homes for however long they can, with dignity and respect. His vision of medical care is far more advanced, proactive and preventative. He gets the wheels turning and ensures his patients get the best of care.”- Mateus Alves
Juliet Alvarez – Community Health Worker, Living Well Home Care
For more than a decade, Juliet has embodied the heart of Living Well through her unwavering compassion, empathy, and commitment to exceptional care. Since joining the team in 2015 as a full-time Community Health Worker, she has built a reputation defined not only by the absence of complaints, but by a steady stream of heartfelt accolades from clients and colleagues alike. Juliet consistently goes above and beyond, whether it is staying past her shift to await paramedics or family members or offering reassurance during emergencies. She never refuses to care for clients with challenging behaviours as she believes in everyone’s right to compassionate care – she will always welcome them with a smile and a warm hand to hold.
Juliet’s approach to care extends far beyond routine tasks. She takes the time to truly know each client—their personalities, preferences, fears, and joys—creating an environment where every individual feels safe, respected, and seen. Whether sharing a gentle conversation before beginning care, offering emotional support during difficult moments, or using free time to make tea, or reorganize a space in their home, Juliet brings connection into the lives of seniors who often feel isolated. Her gift for forming meaningful bonds has left many clients expressing that they don’t know what they would do without her.
“Client states CHW Juliet is an absolute gem and does so much more for her than the housekeepers at her home where they only vacuum once weekly. States she would be lost without her and she is a big help.” – Client Call log
“Husband of Client Beaton called to remark on Alvarez’s very kind and patient nature and to say that she was wonderful with his wife today. He’s very pleased with the staff Living Well has sent for help”. – Client Call Log
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Interested in sponsoring this award? Access the sponsorship prospectus here.
