Convocation Spotlight: Asha Farah

Asha Farah looks forward to continuing her work to address disparities in healthcare following her convocation with a master of nursing, nurse practitioner degree on June 7.

Farah spoke to us about her passion for addressing equity in healthcare Black and immigrant families, and her ongoing efforts to empower Black nurses in Canada.

What achievement, accomplishment, or moment are you most proud of from your time in the program?

My capstone project, which was a meta-synthesis of Somali women's birth experiences in North America

What was the biggest challenge you faced?

Juggling different demands: parenting, work, finances, academics and clinicals.

What initially drew you to this area of study?

My nursing background is in maternal newborn care and I have always had a passion to improve disparities in healthcare and addressing health equity for black families, particularly immigrants. Advancing my education as an NP was important to provide the comprehensive care I know is needed for individuals and families.

What lessons will you take from pursuing a degree during the pandemic?

One big lesson I am taking away is the importance of connections and community. For me as the many challenges of the pandemic became evident finding people who shared the same challenges, fears, worries, and hopes for the future were so important. 

What comes next for you in your career/academic journey?

I have reflected on my purpose through the program and what changes I wanted to see in healthcare especially for black populations both as patients and as health professionals. I am working as an NP at the Royal Alexandra hospital in postpartum- providing maternal and newborn care. Also, I have joined Canadian Black Nurses Alliance in a leadership position for the Alberta chapter, whose mission is to serve, mentor, and empower Black Canadian Nurses through the power of community.

What advice would you give to a student thinking of entering your program of study/specialization?