Every year, the RBC Future Launch Scholarship for Black Youth is awarded to 20 Black students across Canada. The scholarship, which is valued up to $10,000 per year, provides recipients with access to a variety of financial and mentoring services to achieve their goals.
Among the recipients of the 2024 scholarship is York’s very own Eseimuede James Ehiagwina, a second-year nursing student with a passion for making a difference in his community. On campus, Ehiagwina is the president of the Canadian Black Nurses Alliance-York University chapter (CBNA-YORKU), and the cohort representative for the Nursing Students Association at York University (NSAY). He also works part-time as a peer mentor for Black Excellence at York University (BE YU). Outside of campus, Ehiagwina advocates for youth mental health as a member of the National Youth Council for Kids Help Phone.
Having immigrated to Canada only four years ago, Ehiagwina has been no stranger to the adversities faced by many first-generation immigrants such as himself. Ehiagwina acknowledges that although balancing his commitments proves to be challenging at times, he credits his success to his faith and a supportive network of family and friends.
“Truthfully, sometimes even I’m amazed at what I can juggle. My faith is my cornerstone so I lean on it for strength. I also do my best to prioritize tasks and stay determined with whatever project, school work, or idea I’m working on. Though I’m not always perfect at it, I have learned to find how in my imperfections,” shares Ehiagwina.
When reflecting on his journey and experiences, Ehiagwina cites his parents as his greatest inspirations and motivators.
“I know it might sound like a cliché, but my parents have truly been my biggest inspiration and have had a significant impact on my journey. Leaving behind their jobs in our home country to provide us with a better life here in Canada, they have sacrificed so much for our family,” says Ehiagwina. “They’ve taught me the value of perseverance and determination, and I’m endlessly grateful for their guidance and support. They motivate me to keep pushing forward and striving for my goals in life.”
Looking ahead, Ehiagwina remains committed to his goals of working as a pediatric nurse practitioner, as well as advocating for mental health — especially within refugee and newcomer immigrant communities. “I believe there is a crucial need for increased awareness and support for mental health issues affecting these populations. In the future, I hope to establish an organization or foundation dedicated to providing mental health resources and access to support services for refugee and newcomer immigrants,” he shares.
For students eager to make a difference in their communities, Ehiagwina offers some practical and inspirational advice:
“Trust yourself, take that first step, and watch as your journey unfolds.”
“Just go for it,” he adds. “Even if self-doubt or lack of confidence feels like it’s holding you back, remember that you’re capable of more than you think. If you’re passionate about something, you’ll find a way to make it happen. Taking that first step can be scary, but once you do, the possibilities are endless.
“I used to doubt whether I could get involved in my community or apply for scholarships. But I’m grateful that I pushed past my fears and stepped out of my comfort zone.”
Congratulations bro🎊🥳🎉