Royal Columbian Hospital Foundation is pleased to announce that our board member, Hayley Woodin-Hastings, has been awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal, a prestigious recognition of her outstanding contributions to Canada and the communities she serves. Hayley’s remarkable leadership, dedication to social justice, and commitment to breaking barriers across multiple sectors make her a truly deserving recipient of this honour.
Hayley has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to positive change, particularly through her groundbreaking work in the media, justice, and community service sectors. She is the co-founder of Mákook pi Sélim, an Indigenous storytelling magazine that amplifies Indigenous voices in a powerful and unprecedented way. This publication, entirely written by Indigenous authors, aligns with reconciliation efforts and offers a vital space for diverse perspectives in the media landscape.
As the co-founder of The Justice Hack, the largest hackathon in British Columbia aimed at addressing barriers to justice, Hayley has demonstrated visionary leadership in promoting accessibility and fairness within the justice system. The event brings together leaders from government, the legal community, and the tech industry to collaborate on innovative solutions. Under Hayley’s leadership, The Justice Hack has grown significantly, attracting key partners and expanding its reach to tackle critical issues affecting communities across the province. When the pandemic halted in-person events, Hayley adapted by co-creating a digital magazine featuring perspectives from B.C.-based leaders on how justice can be improved in the province. Her passion for access to justice remains strong, with her co-founding of a legal technology start-up, one of the first companies to be accepted into the Law Society of BC’s Innovation Sandbox.
Hayley has also played a key role in addressing challenges faced by women in male-dominated sectors, such as through her work with BC500, a publication focused on diversity and representation in business. She continues to break down barriers by supporting and highlighting initiatives like Yes, Shef, an event dedicated to empowering women in hospitality.
In addition to her work in journalism, where she has broken new ground as the second female and youngest editor in the 36-year history of Business in Vancouver, Hayley has demonstrated excellence as a global journalist. Her investigative reporting on Canadian mining in Central America and her insightful commentary on BBC Radio’s Business Matters program have earned her recognition far beyond our borders.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Hayley’s dedication to the community is evident in her volunteer work with organizations like Big Sisters of BC, the White Rock Youth Ambassador Program, and Royal Columbian Hospital Foundation. Her leadership in these areas, coupled with over countless hours of service across various roles, reflects her deep commitment to making a positive impact on those around her.
Hayley has been recognized with several prestigious awards, including the Jack Webster Award, and has earned fellowships from the Overseas Press Club Foundation and the Pulitzer Center. Her ability to inspire, mentor, and lead is a testament to her character and the values she upholds in all her endeavors.
At Royal Columbian Hospital Foundation, we are incredibly grateful for Hayley’s ongoing contributions to our mission of supporting one of the busiest hospitals in the province. Her leadership continues to have a lasting and meaningful impact, and we are thrilled to celebrate this well-deserved recognition.
Hayley is pictured with her husband, Brandon Hastings, as she, fellow recipient Karimah Es Sabar, and a family member pose for a photo with Lieutenant Governor Wendy Lisogar-Cocchia
The King Charles III Coronation Medal commemorates individuals whose contributions have made a significant and positive difference to Canada and its communities. Hayley’s tireless advocacy for justice, commitment to fostering diversity, and leadership in building a better future for all truly embody the spirit of this prestigious award.
Congratulations, Hayley, on this incredible achievement. We look forward to continuing to work together in support of our community’s health and well-being.