Leadership Connections Program
Overview
The BCND Leadership Connections Program is a pilot leadership initiative launching in Fall 2025.
It is intended to connect senior naturopathic students with experienced NDs for non-clinical leadership, focused on professional development and career exploration.
The program will consist of 10-15 upper-year students currently enrolled at CCNM – Boucher, and NDs currently practicing in BC. The BCND Leadership Connections Program is not a preceptorship or clinical supervision program.
For Leaders
- Must be a current, active licensed ND and BCND member.
- Commit 10–15 hours of connection and engagement between Sept 2025 and June 2026.
- Offer up to three students support (1–3 total).
- Receive up to $250 (per student) in reimbursable expenses (e.g., coffee or lunch meetings); all expenses must be documented with receipts.
- Submit feedback mid-year and at the end of the program.
- Follow program ground rules (confidentiality, clear expectations, professional conduct, boundaries, etc.).
For Students
- Must be enrolled at CCNM Boucher and in good standing in the academic program years three or four.
- Commit to regular engagement and proactive communication.
- Participate in a pilot program with limited spots (10 total): 75% Year 4, 25% Year 3.
- Understand this is a leadership connections program, not a preceptorship.
- Attend virtual or in-person meetings as agreed with your leader.
- Respect your leader’s time and boundaries.
- Submit feedback mid-year and at the end of the program.
- Follow program ground rules (confidentiality, clear expectations, professional conduct, boundaries, etc.).
Matching Process
Matches will be made based on interest areas, availability, and stated preferences. While we strive for strong alignment, we cannot guarantee perfect matches. This is a pilot year, and we appreciate your patience and flexibility.
Note, there are a limited number of spots available, and selections will be made on a first-come, first-served basis; however, if the program is successful, additional opportunities may open in future years, so we encourage students to stay engaged and consider reapplying.
Feedback & Support
If any issues arise (e.g., lack of responsiveness, misalignment), students and leaders are encouraged to contact the program team at admin@bcnd.ca. We’re committed to resolving concerns constructively and respectfully.Declaration of Pre-existing Relationships
To support fairness and ensure the Leadership Connections program meets its intended goals, we ask participants to declare any pre-existing personal relationships (e.g., close friendships, family, or romantic partnerships) with individuals they may be paired with. While participation is not prohibited in such cases, this information helps us ensure transparency and appropriate use of program resources.


Saskia Karlen is a third-generation insurance broker specializing in life and health insurance, financial planning, and employee benefits. With a BA from the University of British Columbia, Saskia transitioned from a successful career in marketing to the insurance and financial services industry. She provides personalized insurance solutions and financial planning strategies to individuals and businesses, helping them achieve long-term financial security.