The NTHSSA is pleased to spotlight Stephanie Rabesca, the Oncology Medical Social Worker. Originally from the Tłı̨chǫ region, Stephanie has lived in the Northwest Territories all her life and currently works with the Cancer Navigation Team in Yellowknife.

Stephanie provides supports to patients and families from across the NWT and Nunavut who are living with cancer. Her work includes providing emotional support, helping patients access resources, advocating within the healthcare system, and ensuring patients feel heard and supported through their care journey.

Stephanie first became interested in a career in social work through personal experience and community influence. Seeing systemic barriers and limited access to services first-hand shaped her desire to be part of meaningful change.

Building connections with patients and their families is one of the highlights of the role for Stephanie, who says receiving a cancer diagnosis is a vulnerable time for people, and navigating the healthcare system and practical tasks like medical travel or financial assistance can quickly become overwhelming.

"It is rewarding to know that even small acts of support can make a big difference in someone’s journey."

Stephanie says living in the North keeps her connected to the land, culture, and traditional ways of knowing, and working in the NWT allows her to practice social work in a way that is holistic and community-centred.

"This connection grounds me and reminds me why relational work is so important," she says. "You see firsthand how social determinants of health, like housing, income, geography, and access to services, impact people's lives. It challenges you to think creatively, advocate strongly, and work collaboratively."