Spotlight on Canada's top safety leaders under 35
Canadian Occupational Safety (COS) has officially unveiled its 2025 Young Achievers report, spotlighting the nation’s top safety leaders under 35 who are redefining excellence in workplace health and safety. This year’s cohort is celebrated for their technical expertise, strategic vision, and commitment to both physical and psychological well-being across Canadian workplaces.
System architects, culture carriers, changemakers
The 2025 Young Achievers are recognized not just as safety enforcers, but as educators, advocates, and innovators. Their proactive leadership is shaping comprehensive safety management systems, integrating HR and safety functions, and championing both physical and psychological safety. These professionals are hands-on, engaging directly with frontline staff to foster trust and drive real change.
As Santanna Coleman of Construction Safety Nova Scotia explains,
“I try to hit home and get them to realize that they’re not just working for themselves. They have loved ones who care about them. I want them to realize that the goal is not just to get the job done. It’s to go home at the end of the day.”
Coleman’s participative training style and focus on mental health have helped her break down barriers and inspire lasting behaviour change in the construction sector.
Adam Calderhead of VETS Group echoes the importance of psychological safety, sharing:
“For me, approaching psychological safety and mental health is about going deeper than hanging posters and having an open-door policy.”
Calderhead’s approach has helped his team achieve over two million hours lost-time injury free, underscoring the impact of authentic, empathetic leadership.
Featured winners
This year’s report highlights several outstanding individuals, including:
- Santanna Coleman, Construction Safety Nova Scotia
- Adam Calderhead, VETS Group
- Andrea Cardona Palacio, Green Infrastructure Partners
- Gerald Balila, Green Infrastructure Partners
- Jasmine Amini, Metrolinx
- Neetu Neetu, Green Infrastructure Partners
- Samantha Twynam, Dexterra Group
Next generation of safety excellence
The report, based on nominations and recommendations from industry leaders, highlights the evolution of the safety profession. Today’s young achievers are multidimensional leaders—integrating technology, championing mental health, and fostering inclusive workplace cultures. Their stories are a testament to the power of mentorship, ongoing education, and the integration of innovative tools and soft skills.
For the full list of winners, detailed profiles, and methodology, visit the main feature page.
