One moment that shifted how I see myself and my place in the world wasn’t loud or dramatic—it was gradual, but it hit me during nursing school when I realized I wasn’t just studying pathophysiology and memorizing ECG rhythms; I was preparing to advocate for people whose stories often go unheard. Sitting in class discussions about Black health, racism, and social determinants of health, I felt something click. I wasn’t just Ademide the student trying to pass KINE or NURS exams—I was someone positioned at the intersection of science, culture, and leadership. Planning initiatives, thinking about RNAO board placement, even organizing things like sponsorship packages and student involvement made me see that I naturally step into spaces where responsibility lives. The emotions were mixed: imposter syndrome (because who am I to influence systems?), pride (because who am I not to?), and a quiet confidence growing underneath it all. I realized I don’t just want to be clinically competent; I want to shape policy, representation, and access. That shift reframed my aspirations from “get through school” to “build impact.” It also made me laugh at myself a bit—because for someone who color-codes study notes and budgets down to the dollar, I somehow ended up dreaming on a much bigger scale than I planned. Ultimately, that moment taught me that my place in the world isn’t small or accidental. It’s intentional, layered, and still unfolding—and I’m allowed to take up space in it.
Kids Help Phone (KHP) is honoured to share creative content submitted by youth from coast to coast to coast as they Feel Out Loud with us. We thank the Feel Out Loud Community Creator of this piece for their contribution to youth mental health and well-being in Canada. For more information on the Feel Out Loud Community Creator Space and / or how you can submit your own creative content for possible publication, you can visit the submission page.
