For Kemi, nursing is about deeply understanding and communicating with others, often those from vastly different backgrounds than her own. Growing up in Nigeria, she learned to care for her grandmother, an experience that built a strong bond between the two of them and helped Kemi envision her future career path. “Even though she was nonverbal,” Kemi remembers, “she would show such appreciation for all I did for her. Today, I work with a highly diverse population. Being a good nurse means taking the time to learn what respect and compassion mean for each person within their culture.”
When she arrived in the U.S., Kemi quickly accepted a job as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) working with developmentally delayed adults. She knew she wanted to continue her education and become a Registered Nurse, but finances were a significant obstacle.
When Kemi’s best friend and fellow nursing student introduced her to WWIN, she was inspired to see a community that came together to support women’s education. “I enjoyed hearing my friend talk about WWIN, and I knew it was an organization I wanted to be part of. Being a Star Scholar has been a life-changing experience, both because of WWIN’s financial support and because I see how everyone pitches in – donors, staff and other Scholars – to help you and make sure you are successful.”
“As I look to the future, I picture myself doing more, going further than even what I’ve achieved so far – and I want my kids to do even better than I have.”
Kemi graduated with her Bachelor of Science in Nursing this year, and she continues to work in increasingly large and complex hospital settings. She has a special interest in intensive care, where she finds it rewarding to care for patients recovering from significant illness or injury. Among her proudest achievements is serving as a role model for her two children. “My son and daughter are both so proud of me,” she says, “especially my daughter, who wants to learn about being a healthcare worker. As I look to the future, I picture myself doing more, going further than even what I’ve achieved so far – and I want my kids to do even better than I have.”
Kemi encourages other motivated women to apply for a Star Scholarship, and she aspires to become a future donor and pay it forward. She says, “It’s empowering to see that women don’t have to sit in the back benches. We also deserve a role in the forefront. WWIN is passionate about helping women stand out in society and do better for themselves and their families.”