Agnes Bongers
Category
With 15+ years of experience in healthcare communications and more than 20 years in media, Agnes Bongers is currently operating a communications consulting business called ABCommunications.
A writer who knows how to tell an organization’s story, Agnes has worked in various strategic communications roles at Hamilton’s two major health networks, including Chief Communications Officer at St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton.
She was a reporter and editor at The Hamilton Spectator before switching careers to Public Relations, earning a Master of Communications Management at McMaster University. Her hospital communication teams have won multiple national awards through the Canadian Public Relations Society (CPRS) for innovative communication.
Agnes has worked at a city, regional and provincial basis to share knowledge, learnings, expertise, and advice in building excellence in all areas of communication.
She has spoken at national conferences on communication and mentored several early career public relations professionals.
In her work, Agnes engages a collaborative approach to build consensus, transparency and trust, working to serving as a calming force amidst the chaos inherent in issues and crisis management, bringing order to complex situations.
Session: ENRICH Leadership Panel
Leadership isn’t just about climbing the ladder—it’s about navigating challenges, making bold decisions, and staying true to yourself along the way. Join us for a thought-provoking and unfiltered conversation with senior leaders as they share insights on what it really takes to succeed at the top.
This honest and engaging panel will cover:
- Success secrets & leadership lessons—What they wish they knew earlier in their careers.
- The Glass Cliff & Gender Bias—What happens when women are put in high-risk leadership roles, and how to overcome systemic challenges.
- Balancing leadership & life—How to lead effectively without burnout and set boundaries for sustainable success.
- The Future of Women in Leadership—How AI, hybrid work, and evolving workplace dynamics are shaping new opportunities (and new challenges).
- The Power of Influence—Building presence, making an impact, and advocating for yourself and others in leadership.
Whether you’re a rising leader or an executive looking to refine your approach, this session will leave you with practical takeaways, candid advice, and renewed confidence in your leadership journey.