Joy Abasta

Background

About Joy Abasta

Joy Abasta is an international public health nurse, a dedicated community health advocate and a leader at MOSAIC, a Canadian non-profit organization focused on assisting migrants, refugees, newcomers, vulnerable and equity-deserving populations. Originally from the Philippines, she has a rich background as a Registered Nurse specializing in community health, health promotion, and disaster and risk management. Upon moving to Canada in 2014, Joy faced significant challenges in getting her nursing credentials recognized, which led her to transition into other roles within the healthcare and community service sectors​ (1 MOSAIC, 2 United Way),(Links below).In her current role as the Senior Manager of Community Health and Specialized Programs at MOSAIC, Joy is committed to empowering newcomers to make informed and culturally safe choices about their health and safety. Her vision includes bridging the knowledge and service gaps in the healthcare system, using an inclusivity and equity lens​ (3 Simon Fraser University).Joy is also actively involved in policy advocacy and has contributed to the International Credentials Recognition Act in British Columbia, aimed at reducing barriers for skilled immigrants seeking to work in their fields in Canada​ (4 The Tyee, 5 CHEK)​. She is passionate about cultural agility and gender sensitivity in public health and continuously works towards decolonization and reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples​ (6 Institute for Canadian Citizenship)​.1. MOSAIC: https://mosaicbc.org/about/leadership/2. United Way BC: https://uwbc.ca/stories/2024/united-way-bcs-public-policy-institute-empowers-newcomer-workplace-advocacy/3. SFU: The Tyee:https://thetyee.ca/News/2023/11/20/BC-Clearing-Barriers-Skilled-Foreign-Workers/5. CHEK Institute for Canadian Citizenship:https://inclusion.ca/article/meet-canoo-member-joy-abasta/