A UFV alumna who is a strong advocate for the French-speaking population in British Columbia has helped bring a unique health-care facility to fruition.

On November 2, BC’s first Francophone health-care facility opened its doors. Designed to provide services to French-speaking people in BC, Santé Ouest, operated by RésoSanté Colombie-Britannique (RésoSanté), helps to fill a gap for Francophones who find it challenging to communicate their needs in English.

And UFV alum Lily Crist (BIS ’22) played a large role in launching the facility.

“I’ve been actively involved in health advocacy and community development for over a decade,” she says. “My focus is the intersection of health-care access, women’s rights, and francophone issues in British Columbia.”

A Francophone herself, Lily has been an active member of the French-speaking community in BC for many years. She hopes to bring awareness to the gap in French-language services offered in BC.

“My journey began with a deep commitment to equality and health-care access,” says Lily. “During my time working at La Boussole (a Vancouver-based non-profit organization that helps Francophones in need to access vital social services)  with unhoused populations, I witnessed firsthand the disparities faced by people from Francophone communities, particularly women. This motivated me to take on leadership roles, not just advocating for health but also working towards systemic change that ensures equitable services for these populations.

“A significant part of my work involves capacity building and ensuring that Francophone communities can navigate the healthcare system effectively, while also working to create partnerships with health-care providers to offer culturally and linguistically appropriate services,” says Lily.

“I envision a future where Francophone individuals in BC have equal access to all essential services, including health care, education, and legal support,” says Lily. “I hope to see a stronger network of French-speaking professionals and service providers across sectors, making it easier for Francophone communities to thrive without facing linguistic barriers.”

To do this, Lily has become a lifelong learner. In her 50s, she came to UFV to grow her expertise and experience. She chose the institution because of its interdisciplinary approach to education. Through the Integrated Studies program she was able to bring together her interests in health care, social justice, and community building.

“A key influence during my time at UFV was English professor Hilary Turner,” says Lily. “Her ability to make complex ideas accessible and her deep passion for critical thinking had a profound impact on me.

“She taught me not only the importance of clear communication, but also how to bring warmth and approachability to the educational process. This has greatly shaped how I connect with others in my professional work today.”

This work culminated in the opening of Santé Ouest, a point of pride and a highlight in Lily’s career.

Even though she was born in France, Lily considers British Columbia her home, and she is overjoyed about the accomplishments that have enhanced support for the French-speaking community here.

“I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to contribute to both the Francophone and broader BC community,” says Lily. “It’s been incredibly rewarding to see initiatives like Santé Ouest take shape, and I look forward to continuing this work. I believe in the power of community and collaboration, and I’m excited for what the future holds for French-speaking populations in BC.”