Director of Child Care Services for the YMCA of Northern BC, Lynette Mikalishen is the recipient of the 2021 Child Care Award of Excellence for the North Region.
A virtual award ceremony was held yesterday (Tuesday), where Mikalishen was handed the award from the province.
After an open call for nominations and a review by an external selection committee, 17 Child Care Awards of Excellence were awarded across nine categories.
“I’m humbled, families put their most precious possessions, their children in our care each and every day and honestly it’s an honour and a privilege to be trusted,” said Mikalishen.
Mikalishen has been working with the YMCA of Northern BC for over a decade, during her career the organization has increased child care spaces in Prince George while providing other childcare services to Vanderhoof, Fort St. James, Fort St. John, and Chetwynd.
Additionally, she has also lead initiatives to address the shortage of early childhood educators in Northern BC and facilitated training and education work.
“For many years we have really worked to grow our own team so we look for people who have a passion for early childhood education who have never had the opportunity to go to school or work in the field and often we will get them started,” she explained.
CEO of the Northern BC YMCA Amanda Alexander describes Mikalishen as a ‘true champion’ of ensuring childcare spaces continually evolve to meet children and their families needs.
“She is a collaborator, bringing partners together to enhance child care offerings in the north, and has a deep commitment to truth and reconciliation by ensuring cultural competency is a core part of YMCA Child Care practice. As such, Lynette is truly deserving of this child care excellence award,” added Alexander.
Something going on in the Prince George area you think people should know about?
Send us a news tip by emailing [email protected].