Welcome to our newest acclaimed board members!
Vanessa Trent, RPN
Region 7
North East & North West – North West area
Vanessa has been an RPN since graduating from Bow Valley College in 2007. She brings a diverse experience from across acute and primary care.
After spending 13 years in urgent care settings in Calgary and Moose Jaw, she transitioned to primary care with a Family Health Team in Kenora, Ontario in 2017 in pursuit of a better work-life balance.
The pandemic led Vanessa to join the front lines, where she took on a role at Waaseghiizhig Nanaandawe’iyewigaming, blending clinical nursing with holistic care. She is a strong advocate for the advancement and autonomy of RPNs, with a passion for leadership and professional growth.
In addition to her clinical work, Vanessa is passionate about the advancements and autonomy of the RPN scope of practice. She is a strong advocate for these areas and is interested in furthering this advocacy through board membership. Nursing in a geographically challenging area has helped Vanessa develop resourcefulness and adaptability, qualities that drive her commitment to professional growth.
When not working, Vanessa is a proud mother of three and enjoys outdoor adventures with her children.
Lydia Mead
Region 2
North East & North West – North West area
Lydia grew up in Port Hope, Ontario, in a family of seven children where helping others was a core value. Known for her strong work ethic, she started working at a young age, helping her father repair pipe organs and continued to balance part-time jobs throughout school.
After saving for post-secondary education, she earned her Practical Nursing diploma from Conestoga College in 2022, gaining healthcare experience while working at a local retirement home.
Lydia now works at Grand River Hospital on an in-patient surgery floor, where she is known for her dedication to patient care and mentoring new staff.
She joined the WeRPN board in 2021 as a student representative and currently serves as the Board Member at Large, advocating for RPNs across Ontario. Lydia plans to run for the Region 2 board position in 2024.
