BCC BFI Mentor Candidate
Individuals who meet the eligibility criteria may be invited to begin the Mentor certification process. This includes completing:
- The BCC BFI Quality Improvement Workshop
- A BFI Mentor Certification Course
Following the course, Candidates must demonstrate competency through a structured, mentored experience that includes both observation and active participation in BFI-related activities. The process to achieve certification includes onboarding and completion of competencies, which depends on available opportunities.
Candidates will be expected to complete the following activities:
- Observe a facility mentoring session
- Co-lead or lead a facility mentoring session with a certified Mentor
- Review facility data for the BFI Recognition Program and contribute to a report with a certified Mentor
- Observe the External Assessment process, including the orientation session, collaborative meetings, data compilation and analysis, report writing, and Assessment Committee/Board of Directors debriefs (some components may be completed through video learning)
- Co-lead the External Assessment process with a certified Mentor
- Complete a site visit of a hospital/birthing centre or community health service
All competency activities are completed on a volunteer basis.
Throughout the process, candidates are mentored by experienced certified Mentors, who oversee their work and provide feedback to both the candidate and the BFI Assessment Committee Co-Chairs.
Upon successful completion of all requirements, including written recommendations from a certified Mentor, the BCC BFI Assessment Committee reviews the application. If approved, the candidate is certified as a BCC BFI Mentor.
Certified BCC BFI Mentor
Once certified, Mentors are engaged by the BCC as paid contractors and may:
- Conduct Recognition Program activities for hospital/birthing centre and community health services
- Participate in External Assessments for hospital/birthing centre and community health service
- Provide mentorship and guidance to BFI Mentor Candidates
Certified mentors are also expected to:
- Maintain membership with the Breastfeeding Committee for Canada
- Attend BCC Mentor updates or refresher courses as offered
Continuing Competency
BCC BFI Mentor Candidates and Certified Mentors
- Submit an annual update form to the BCC BFI Assessment Committee to maintain the Mentor database
- Submit brief monthly progress reports when working with an assigned facility
BFI Assessment Committee Co-Chairs
- Provide updates, refresher training, and supporting materials
- Assign Recognition Program and External Assessment opportunities based on Mentor availability
- Use a rotation system that considers geography, language, experience, and avoids conflicts of interest
- Review feedback from participating facilities and follow up as needed
The BCC maintains a database of all active BCC BFI Mentor Candidates and certified BCC BFI Mentors.