Minttu Leonard
Bradford,ON
Summary
Compassionate and dedicated Recreation Assistant with over 8 years of experience with seniors living in long-term care settings. Expertise in dementia support, behavioral intervention, and therapeutic programming underscores a strong commitment to resident-centered care. Known for cultivating trust, joy, and engagement through meaningful daily interactions while demonstrating exceptional verbal and written communication skills in English. Eager to transition back to hands-on therapeutic work, bringing extensive experience and a passion for enhancing the quality of life for residents.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
Work History
Reporter
Kanadan Sanomat (Finnish-Canadian Newspaper)
11.2022 - Current
- Wrote feature articles, interviews, and cultural coverage for North America’s leading Finnish-language newspaper
- Managed deadlines and editorial coordination independently while working remotely
- Concluding contract in September 2025 to return to full-time therapeutic work
Personal Support Worker
Private Client & Mindconnections
10.2022 - 02.2024
- Provided complex in-home care for a client living with quadriplegia, tailoring routines to promote safety, dignity, and independence (Private Client)
- Provided in-home assistance for a senior in meal prepping, light housekeeping, shopping, and other activities; supported mental health with companionship and emotional support. (Mindconnections)
Activity Aide
Suomi-Koti Nursing Home
12.2019 - 02.2024
- Facilitated both group and 1-on-1 activities creating moments of joy and engagement through various activities including games, exercise, sensory stimulation, reminiscence therapy, arts and crafts, sing-alongs, gardening and doll therapy
- Supported physical wellbeing of residents by assisting with exercise programs and encouraging participation in activities
- Enhanced resident engagement by organizing and leading daily activities tailored to their interests and abilities
- Collaborated efficiently with the interdisciplinary team (Recreation Coordinator, PSWs, nurses, dietary and admin staff) to ensure alignment with residents' physical, emotional, and cognitive needs
- Assisted in maintaining a safe and clean environment, ensuring all activity areas were organized and properly equipped for scheduled events
- Documented daily activities and intake in nursing notes, care plans and communication books
- Provided culturally and linguistically appropriate programming and daily support for Finnish-, and English-speaking residents
- Escorted residents on outings and to community events, including medical appointments, holiday celebrations, and inter-generational programs
- Planned and led spiritual care activities including hymn singing, prayer, Bible reading, and a biweekly Bible Circle
- Supported residents and family members during palliative and end-of-life stages through emotional presence, spiritual companionship, and practical comfort measures
- Guided volunteers and supported their participation in activity delivery
- Helped create a welcoming, uplifting environment where residents could participate with purpose, connection, and enjoyment
Behavioural Support Lead (BSO)
Suomi-Koti Nursing Home
01.2018 - 11.2021
- Chaired behavioural care planning team supporting residents with responsive behaviours related to dementia, mental health, or neurological conditions
- Using resident-centred approach, applied PIECES framework to identify causes of responsive behaviours and improve residents’ quality of life
- Coached staff and volunteers on respectful, personalized strategies and liaised with families to ensure consistent care
- Facilitated team meetings, coordinated behaviour observations, and documented interventions
Personal Support Worker
Suomi-Koti Nursing Home
10.2016 - 12.2019
- Assisted residents with daily living activities, with focus on dignity, safety, and independence
- Supported residents with cognitive decline using gentle persuasion techniques and individualized care strategies
- Observed and documented changes in physical and emotional well-being using PointClickCare; communicated concerns to charge nurse
- Collaborated closely with other PSWs, nurses, and recreation staff to meet holistic care goals
Practical Nurse
City of Tampere
05.2015 - 05.2016
- Worked full-time in a 22-bed psychogeriatric hospital unit supporting patients with dementia, severe mental illness, behavioural symptoms, and substance use issues
- Delivered direct nursing care in a multidisciplinary team environment with emphasis on safety, stabilization, and emotional support
Education
Practical Nurse Diploma -
Tredu – Tampere Region Vocational College
Finland05-2015
Training Completed in in Canada
Skills
- Compassionate care for diverse senior needs
- Friendly, positive attitude
- Resident-focused program implementation
- Team collaboration
- Documentation management
- Responsive to shifting priorities
- Analytical problem-solving
- Effective verbal and written communication
- Focused listening
- Certified in CPR
Languages
English
Full Professional
Finnish
Native or Bilingual
Russian
Elementary
Swedish
Elementary
Timeline
Reporter
Kanadan Sanomat (Finnish-Canadian Newspaper)
11.2022 - Current
Personal Support Worker
Private Client & Mindconnections
10.2022 - 02.2024
Activity Aide
Suomi-Koti Nursing Home
12.2019 - 02.2024
Behavioural Support Lead (BSO)
Suomi-Koti Nursing Home
01.2018 - 11.2021
Personal Support Worker
Suomi-Koti Nursing Home
10.2016 - 12.2019
Practical Nurse
City of Tampere
05.2015 - 05.2016
Practical Nurse Diploma -
Tredu – Tampere Region Vocational College
Training Completed in in Canada
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