Challenging systemic injustices to foster a more inclusive and equitable society
Rick Johal is committed to eradicating Indigenous-specific racism for the improvement of all peoples. He received a PHSA+ Award for approaching this work with humility, acknowledging himself as a perpetual learner and using his platform to effect change.
As the director of Learning and Development at BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services (BCMHSUS), Rick Johal leads a team that designs and delivers innovative education across BCMHSUS. He also oversees provincial mental health and substance use workforce development education, empowering British Columbians who support individuals with mental health and substance use needs.
Identifying as a settler of colour, Rick has experienced discrimination and prejudice firsthand. His reflections on these experiences deepened his understanding of the ongoing colonial oppression towards Indigenous Peoples, and how settlers can be inadvertently complicit in this oppression. By challenging systemic injustices together, Rick believes we can foster a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
"Rick exemplifies outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment to advancing Indigenous well-being," shares his PHSA+ Award nominator. "He deeply understands the significance of being a co-conspirator in our shared journey to eradicate Indigenous-specific racism, recognizing the importance of collective action."
Rick gently, yet effectively, speaks up about Indigenous-specific racism. He actively supports Indigenous staff, patients, clients, families, and communities, while taking intentional actions that contribute to positive systemic impacts for Indigenous Peoples. He also elevates the importance of Indigenous-specific anti-racism (ISAR) in all aspects of work.
Rick looks to education as a tool of empowerment to support learning journeys. His team runs the Centre for Learning, a state-of-the-art web learning system focused on providing a consistent space for provincial systems-level education in areas that are often siloed, such as mental health and substance use.
Soon, the team will roll out the final course of their Concurrent Disorders Foundational Curriculum three-part series. And they'll introduce PHSA's Indigenous-Specific Anti-Racism Self-Directed Learning Journey to the Centre for Learning, expanding its reach to a provincial workforce audience.
"I'm thrilled about the positive impact these initiatives will have," says Rick. "I love that I can shape learning on a larger scale and extend my influence. I'm not just supporting individuals – I'm impacting entire systems! It energizes me to know I'm in a position where I can truly make a meaningful impact."
About the PHSA+ Awards program
The PHSA+ Awards are part of an internal recognition program that celebrates teams and individuals who bring our purpose, vision, values and Coast Salish teachings to life in the workplace. They go above and beyond to serve patients and families across B.C.