Meet Kenneth Abogadil, the Director of Laboratory Medicine, Diagnostic Imaging, and Diagnostic Cardiology Service.
Kenneth (Ken) joined CMH in 2022, drawn by the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the healthcare system and having a strong alignment with the organization’s values. With a passion for leading change and improving patient care, he saw CMH as the right environment to contribute purposefully while continuing to grow as a healthcare leader.
Ken also served as a reservist in the Canadian Armed Forces, reflecting his deep commitment to public service and his adopted country. This experience shaped his perspective on leadership, discipline, and the value of diversity in all forms of service.
Born and raised in the Philippines, Ken is a proud Filipino-Canadian whose heritage is deeply rooted in values such as community, respect for elders, faith, hard work, care, and hospitality. To Ken, being Asian not only encompasses his identity as a Filipino but also the act of breaking down stereotypes that Filipinos face.
After moving to Canada when he was 15 years old, Ken pursued a career in healthcare but was often met by people who saw him through a narrow lens. When Ken would tell people that he worked in a hospital, they would often assume he was a nurse, perpetuating the stereotype that “all Filipinos are nurses or caregivers.”
“I believe we need to continue breaking the stereotypes that often limit how Asians and Filipinos are seen in healthcare and beyond. While progress has been made, and more of us are stepping into diverse roles, there is still so much awareness-building and work to be done.
We are often associated with caregiving roles – and while there is deep pride in that, it’s equally important to be seen as capable leaders, innovators and decision makers. Filipinos are naturally compassionate, but we are also strategic thinkers and change makers. I want to be part of that ongoing movement to broaden Asian representation and reshape perceptions.”
The Philippines is also a very diverse country with several thousand islands. "I wish people knew how rich of a culture the Philippines has. There are so many different regions with an array of unique languages, traditions, and strengths that often go unrecognized.”
Ken passes down his Filipino heritage to his three children, teaching them that they can be leaders in whatever field they choose. He hopes that his children and the younger generations will be able to embrace their full identity and not have to choose between cultural pride and professional growth.
When reflecting on Asian Heritage Month, Ken sees this as a time to celebrate, reflect, and reclaim the existing narratives of the Asian community.
“As we celebrate Asian Heritage Month, we should commit to breaking down barriers to create space for stronger representation at every level. We should challenge the boundaries of being Asian and normalize Asian excellence brought by innovation, decision making, and strategic thinking.”
Thank you to Ken for sharing his story!