To mark International Women’s Day 2021 on March 8, and throughout the month of March, we are honouring the women who help lead Medavie in our mission to improve the wellbeing of Canadians.

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Sophie Gravel, Manager HR Business Partnerships, Medavie Blue Cross

As a leader, what would you say contributed to your success?

I get my desire to lead, influence and guide others from my parents — mostly my mother — as well as my education and the way I was brought up. My parents shared their value of respect and the importance of listening to and understanding everyone’s opinion. There are multiple sides to a story. We need to be open minded and ready to hear all parties. Without knowing it, my mother’s leadership and energy inspired me to become a better version of myself.

How do you feel your role is helping you contribute to improving health care?

It is not my first experience in an organization where health care is central to our mission. My team and I are helping to build an engaged and talented workforce through coaching and supporting leaders who embrace our values and mission to improve the wellbeing of Canadians.

What is your favourite part about your role?

Partnering with my team members and helping to find the best solutions to achieve our organizational goals and fulfill our mission.

What is your biggest obstacle to achieving work-life balance?

My biggest obstacle is aiming for perfection. I am trying to choose progress over perfection, recognizing that nothing is ever perfect, but progress is encouraging!

What barriers do women still face in advancing their careers?

Motherhood and a lack of confidence in their ability to bring great value to their organizations.

What advice would you share with young women looking to advance their career?

Be yourself! Don’t be afraid to speak up and share your point of view. It is important!

"My team and I are helping to build an engaged and talented workforce through coaching and supporting leaders who embrace our values and mission to improve the wellbeing of Canadians."

What is the biggest change you would like to see in health care?

More recognition for health care workers and more humanity for the people needing care.

What do you do to stay on top of your game?

Ask for advice from people I trust.

What qualities does it take to succeed?

Confidence in your abilities, a clear vision of the future to lead the way to progress, and an open mind and creativity to find solutions.

How do you choose to challenge gender inequality?

There is rarely a day where I don’t have the occasion to challenge one of my sons on how they perceive the world. They are the future! Great family discussions are creating awareness about everyone’s reality and each of us is coming out with a richer perspective.

Tell us one fun fact about you.

I like dancing with my dog!


Our Mission is to Improve the Wellbeing of Canadians.

Medavie is a health company that oversees Medavie Blue Cross and Medavie Health Services. Together, we’re bringing Canadians better health and access to care.