Program: Midwifery
Year in program: 1st year
Hometown: New Westminster, BC
What inspired you to pursue your program?
My mother died when I was young. So when my children were born, I took on the mantle of motherhood because I didn’t have my own mother to pass on the torch and guide me into this new phase of life. What I did have was a wise and extremely skilled midwife. She not only ensured that my babies and I were safe and healthy, but also lovingly held the space for me as I journeyed into motherhood. The holistic model of care that midwifery offers and the critical role that midwives play in empowerment and nurturance as they walk “with women” inspired me. Over time, I came to realize that, for various different reasons, many women are missing this fundamental support during arguably one of the most significant transitions in their lives.
I have chosen midwifery as a career path because I want to be a part of empowering women to claim their birth experiences as their own and to accompany them on their journey into parenthood.
What are you looking forward to most this upcoming year?
Learning! I genuinely and thoroughly enjoy learning – whether it’s sitting in lectures and having previous notions and assumptions challenged, acquiring new skills, delving deeply into topics that I am passionate about, or learning about myself and my colleagues. I am excited for it all.
What’s one thing we might be surprised to learn about you?
I am African! I was born on the edge of the Kalahari Desert in a tiny town called Mafikeng, and I lived in South Africa for most of my life. My middle name is Mpho which means ‘gift’ in Setswana.
Best piece of advice:
An excerpt from one of my favourite quotes that comes from the Bahà’i Writings:
“The wrong in the world continues to exist just because people talk only of their ideals, and do not strive to put them into practice. If actions took the place of words, the world’s misery would very soon be changed into comfort.”
What superpower do you wish you had?
Being some kind of elemental warrior like Captain Planet, or Storm from X-Men would be handy, considering our current climate problems – and the ability to fly would be an amazing bonus!
Where in the world would you like to get lost?
I would be happy wandering around the British countryside: quaint villages, rolling hills, English gardens, old castles and manor houses to explore – plus the guarantee of a great cup of tea!