Feyi Tuyo: Lack of infrastructure in home country leads to nursing career
Oct. 22, 2021
At Georgian, we believe nurses are heroes. Because true heroes are defined by traits we can’t see: strong hearts, bright minds, and a whole lot of courage.
Over the next few months we’ll be sharing stories about #GCHeroes: people from Georgian’s nursing community– graduates, faculty and students – who are overcoming challenges and working hard every single day.
Today we’re introducing you to Feyi, a Canadian permanent resident, a student in the collaborative BScN program with York University, an aspiring nurse practitioner, and a mom.
What challenges have you overcome to get where you are?
I grew up in a country that lacked infrastructure and amenities, which hinders the youth and does not allow them to reach their full potential. I promised myself I would soar through these obstacles and rise above the limitations.
To achieve this, I educated myself to the best of my ability. This allowed me to access the Canadian permanent residency program through the point-based system.
Why did you decide to become a nurse?
My younger sister died after childbirth, and the cause of death was hypovolemic shock from post-partum hemorrhage. Her death could have been averted if there were adequate medical facilities and education in place.
This life experience made me realize that many lives are lost due to negligence, and I promised myself that I would be part of the change process by getting educated as a registered nurse in so doing helping people to the best of my ability.
What are your greatest achievements?
Personally, being the proud mother of two kids is my most outstanding achievement.
Professionally, going back to school to earn a second degree that would lead to my ultimate goal, which is to be a Nurse Practitioner.
Who are your nursing heroes?
At the moment, I have three nursing heroes.
- Mary Eliza Mahoney, the first African American to study and work as a professionally trained nurse in the United States of America.
- Dr. Crystal Garvey, a Canadian nurse and my professor at Georgian College, is currently earning a Ph.D. at Queen’s University. She enjoys volunteering and speaking to at-risk youth, athletes, and allies to empower, educate, and inspire anti-bullying and anti-black racism.
- Kemi Shodunke, my cousin and my mentor. She is currently earning a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner.
How has the pandemic affected your view of nursing? and nurses?
The pandemic made me realize that my love for nursing is much more than I thought it was. Nurses are heroes – my superheroes. They are an integral part of the community as they are the frontline respondents during this pandemic.
They do not have the luxury to show fear, and they exhibit courage as they expose themselves to various contractable ailments.
What was your placement like?
My placement has been unique; I learnt a lot from the Stroke and Rehabilitation unit and the cardiac-renal unit at RVH. The nurses were ready to teach, and I was prepared to learn.
My placement benefited me because I could integrate theory, practice together, learn about cultural competence care, and learn from nurses’ clinical reasoning.
Have your children inspired you?
My kids are constantly learning every day; the joy of learning new things intrigues them. This has made me realize that if a young mind can process data and convert it to information, the adult mind needs to be more relaxed and focused on achieving the same result.
Being a mom and student has been challenging but rewarding.
Why did you choose Georgian?
After research and talking to students and facilitators of the faculty, I knew Georgian was the right place for me. I want to learn from the best people to be stretched intellectually and creatively, and I knew Georgian would provide this and much more.
My simulation lab and practicum are my favourite memories of Georgian because it allows me to receive practical knowledge of what it is like to be a nurse.
Why should Georgian offer a stand-alone nursing degree program?
Georgian is a great place to learn because of the community involved in the educational process. Faculty members are very engaging and accommodating, which creates an inclusive learning environment.
Students who enroll in the new program will enjoy a very engaging and interactive learning experience, which will promote a better learning environment. I am very confident that the product of this close-knitted approach would be well-read and versatile students.
More about Georgian’s nursing degree
Study close to home and graduate with the advantage of more industry connections, hands-on practise and one-on-one training with small class sizes taught by expert faculty who care.
- Four-year degree
- Barrie and Owen Sound campuses
- Six clinical placements
- Starts fall 2022
Know a health-care hero?
Do you have a story to share about a health-care hero making meaningful impacts in your community?
Share your stories, gratitude, photos, videos and more by using the hashtag #GCHeroes on social.