Mentorship Lifts Black Nurses in Healthcare

Western University has launched a new initiative called Black Nurses and Students Allied for Success. This program aims to provide crucial support and mentorship to Black nursing students, helping them thrive in their education and future careers.

The initiative connects Black nursing students with experienced nurses and other health professionals. Many mentors are Black nurses working in leadership and specialized roles within the London area. This program was established to combat the discrimination and racism that significantly impact Black nurses and nursing students.

Data indicates that approximately 88 percent of Black nurses and students have experienced racism or discrimination, with nearly 63 percent reporting a moderate to strong impact on their mental health. The program seeks to mitigate these experiences by offering guidance and support.

Participants like Charles Ozzoude find the mentorship invaluable, especially when transitioning into nursing as a second career. He noted that being paired with a senior Black nurse who navigated similar career changes provided essential guidance and encouragement.

Safeyyah Raji, a lecturer and advocate for the program, emphasizes that mentorship should be integrated systemically within institutions. She believes this approach is essential for creating inclusive environments where Black students feel they belong and can achieve their full potential without solely relying on resilience.