Leadership is essential to Dr. Cindy Forbes (BSc’80, MD’85). From her past position as president of Doctors Nova Scotia to her roles on multiple boards and committees, in addition to over 25 years of success as a family physician, she knows firsthand the impact that taking initiative can make.

Earlier this year, Dr. Forbes was elected President Elect of the Canadian Medical Association (CMA). She will assume the office of President later this month as the CMA meets in Halifax for its 2015 annual meeting.

In the medical field, Dr. Forbes believes that strong leadership is essential to address things like system change, innovation, advocacy and policy — all of which affect physicians’ ability to deliver quality care. Yet, she also stresses that leadership is not something one must necessarily approach alone. Dr. Forbes herself has benefited from the help of mentors and inspiring physicians who have shaped her as a leader, a physician, and a person.

As president of the CMA, she plans to continue to help physicians across the country build stronger connections, share strategies, and address common challenges together.

Read more in “You are a physician, therefore you are a leader” on yourdoctors.ca.