About Us

President’s Message

Dr. Mariko Sakamoto RN, PhD - President

November 25 2025

Hello GNABC Members,

I am honored to introduce myself as the new President of the Gerontological Nurses Association of British Columbia. My name is Mariko Sakamoto, and I am excited to step into this role following wonderful leadership of Dr. Shelley Canning, RN, PhD, GNC(c). I want to extend my deepest thanks to Shelley for her dedication and service to GNABC as President from 2022-2024. Her contributions have strengthened our organization and amplified the voices of gerontological nurses across BC.

As we reflect on the challenges of recent years, I am continually inspired by the resilience, compassion, and expertise of gerontological nurses. The COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing nursing shortages have placed extraordinary demands on our profession, yet gerontological nurses have risen to meet these challenges with unwavering commitment. Your work has been instrumental in caring for older adults and advocating for their dignity, safety, and quality of life.

Looking ahead, our society is rapidly aging, and the role of gerontological nurses will only grow in importance. GNABC remains committed to supporting you as we navigate this future together. We aim to foster collaboration with nursing organizations, academic institutions, and government agencies to ensure that the needs of older adults are met with innovation, care, and compassion.

I look forward to working alongside the GNABC Board and all of you, our valued members, as we continue to champion the critical work of gerontological nursing. Together, we will strengthen our community and advance the care of older adults across British Columbia.

Thank you for all you do, and here’s to an exciting journey ahead!

Warm regards,
Mariko Sakamoto
President, GNABC

Executive Information

GNABC Executive and Chairs 2024 - 2026

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