DR. SHAYAN SADEGHI: PROUD CBHSSJB DENTIST & CREE LANGUAGE ENTHUSIAST
Published on
Updated on
For almost a decade, Dr. Shayan Sadeghi has been serving the Cree Nation through his work with the CBHSSJB. He has provided dentistry services across Chisasibi, Eastmain, Nemaska, Oujé‑Bougoumou, Waskaganish, Waswanipi, and now serves as the permanent dentist in Wemindji.
INSPIRATION TO COME NORTH
Shayan’s journey to Eeyou Istchee began with an inspiring university professor who spoke about the meaningful work he experienced in the North. His interest grew further after meeting another resident who had worked in Waswanipi.
Motivated by their stories, Shayan joined the CBHSSJB as a replacement dentist in 2018, later applying for a permanent position in 2019.
CREE CULTURE & LANGUAGE
Throughout his time in Eeyou Istchee, Shayan has developed a deep appreciation for the people, culture, land, and language. The welcoming nature of community members has made the North feel like home.
His passion for linguistics inspired him to begin learning Cree seriously in 2023, an experience he describes as both stimulating and inspiring:
Each language is a perspective on life and when I learn another way of looking at life, I find it stimulating and inspiring.
Dr. Shayan Sadeghi, CBHSSJB Dentist
Many may remember his 2024 Cree Language Month video, in which he participated in an initiative to encourage Cree speakers to share their language‑learning journeys.
COLLABORATIVE HEALTH ENVIRONMENT
One of the aspects Shayan values most at the CBHSSJB is the interdisciplinary approach within CMCs, where professionals work together to help individuals, families, and communities strive for Miyupimaatisiiun reflective of Nishiiyuu.
Every day, he provides comprehensive dental care, including patient assessments, oral hygiene recommendations, disease tracking, nutritional counselling, treatment of oral conditions, and surgical procedures when required.
He also collaborates closely with the Public Health Dental Advisor to support oral health promotion, notably in schools and daycares.
FUTURE OF DENTISTRY SERVICES IN EEYOU ISTCHEE
With ongoing recruitment challenges in the North, Shayan remains dedicated to strengthening dentistry services by:
- continuing to provide high‑quality dental services in Wemindji and to visiting patients;
- supporting the CBHSSJB Dental Assistant Training Program, which provides experience and encourages Cree students to pursue dentistry careers;
- advocating to dental associations and government bodies for improved opportunities in the North;
The CBHSSJB is proud to count Dr. Shayan Sadeghi among its health professionals for his expertise and dedication to oral health, but also for the genuine respect and appreciation he shows for Cree culture, especially the language.
His efforts at the CBHSSJB reflects professional excellence and a strong connection to the communities of Eeyou Istchee.
