Nursing student leading with purpose at USask

For Ifunanya Obidalo, nursing is both a profession and a platform for advocacy, leadership, and meaningful community impact.

Currently, studying at the Saskatoon Campus, Obidalo chose the University of Saskatchewan (USask) for its strong reputation in community-engaged and socially accountable nursing education.

She was particularly drawn to the university’s emphasis on equity, Indigenous health, and population health and how it aligned with her values and her desire to study and practice nursing in a culturally safe and informed way.

“The diverse clinical and community placement opportunities available across Saskatchewan throughout the Bachelor of Science (BSN) program provide meaningful, hands-on learning experiences in both urban and under-served communities,” said Obidalo.

Along with her compassion, it was witnessing first-hand the effect nurses can have on patients that influenced her decision to pursue her nursing education.

“Nursing allows me to advocate for vulnerable populations, provide holistic and evidence-informed care, and contribute to system-level change, while building meaningful therapeutic relationships with patients and their families,” said Obidalo.

The community and mental health experiences, where Obidalo was able to take on leadership roles while working collaboratively with interdisciplinary teams, have been the highlights of her BSN experience.

“I am particularly proud of my involvement in community-based initiatives focused on health education, women’s wellness, newcomer health, and organizing winter clothing drives.”

Obidalo also serves as the co-president of the Canadian Black Nurses Alliance (CBNA) - University of Saskatchewan chapter, which has allowed her to advocate for and support Black nursing students while promoting equity, mentorship, and representation within nursing.

“Alongside these leadership experiences, my mental health placements have helped me develop confidence in assessment, advocacy, and trauma-informed care,” said Obidalo.

“Together, these experiences confirmed my commitment to psychiatric nursing and strengthened my professional identity.”

Looking back on her time at USask, Obidalo has had several good memories while pursuing her education at USask, including clinical shifts helping patients in stressful situations, as well as planning and organizing a successful winter clothing drive for refugees and new immigrant populations in the community.

“Being trusted to contribute meaningfully, while still learning, reminded me why I chose nursing,” said Obidalo.

“These experiences were powerful examples of theory, compassion, leadership, and teamwork coming together in real practice.”

After completing the BSN program and becoming licensed, Obidalo plans to work as a registered nurse in Saskatoon, with particular interest in working at an in-patient psychiatric setting, as well as medical-surgical, cardiology, or renal unit.

“I am drawn to recovery-oriented and trauma-informed practice and hope to continue developing my skills in assessment, advocacy, and interdisciplinary collaboration,” said Obidalo.

Long-term, she is interested in advancing her education and continuing to grow as a nurse leader and advocate in her community.