Fort McMurray (May 28, 2021) — Girls Inc. of Northern Alberta and Bouchier are excited to announce not one, but two women as the first Women of Inspiration nominees in the 2022 series.

The committee has selected Dr. Samantha Clouthier, ND and Dr. Jacinta Sullivan, ND — who are tirelessly breaking new grounds and old barriers for greater diversity, equity and inclusion.

Having just graduated from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, Dr. Clouthier and Dr. Sullivan recognized a need for more healthcare options in our region and decided to help fill it. They moved here as a duo and opened Juniper Naturopathic Clinic in 2020. Their clinic is a certified Rainbow Space, a safe and welcoming space for 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals and their health. In a little over a year of business, they have seen over 1000 patients – 80 per cent of which are women. 

“Bouchier is thrilled to kick off another fantastic season of Women of Inspiration. It’s exciting to see the first nominees representing alternative health care options in our region. Both mental and physical health is something I’m very passionate about and I commend Dr. Clouthier and Dr. Sullivan for their inclusiveness and openness to provide service to those in need with barriers to good healthcare.” said Nicole Bourque Bouchier, CEO & Co-Owner, Bouchier.

While they work to address systemic barriers, Dr. Clouthier and Dr. Sullivan said they experienced some of the stigmas of being women while in the process of opening their clinic. 

“My biggest thing would be to let girls and women know that they are absolutely capable. I really feel like if I can do it others also can,” said Dr. Clouthier.

Dr. Clouthier and Dr. Sullivan offer free public talks to continue to educate the public, including with young girls to discuss the importance of mental health and wellbeing. Aligning with Girls Inc.’s mandate, they address systemic barriers by offering discounted appointments for students and seniors, a sliding scale policy for those without health care coverage and a pay-what-you-can option for transgender/non-binary as well as other demographics within our region that experience barriers to healthcare.

Both Dr. Clouthier and Dr. Sullivan want women and young girls to know that everyone is entitled to feel good about every aspect of their life, including their health and they deserve to have support. 

“As doctors, as well, our whole goal is to empower people. That’s our whole motive here,” said Dr. Sullivan.

While their business has been open for a little over a year, Dr. Clouthier and Dr. Sullivan already have plans to expand to further support the mental and physical needs of our community. 

These two women are business owners, entrepreneurs, published authors, cookbook creators and represent what it means to be smart, strong and bold.

“We’re honoured to stand with these two doctors who are using their voice and power to advocate for an inclusive, equitable and diverse community. Powerful girls in an equitable society is what we envision. We are committed to working toward the vision and are grateful to be able to do so with advocates like Boucheir right by our side.” Nanase Tonda, Executive Director, Girls Inc. of Northern Alberta

They will join four other Women of Inspiration nominees to be honoured in March 2022.