A Spotlight on Blessing's Black History Month Journey!

In celebration of Black History Month, Blessing Edidiong Ofurum, our current student leader at Bow Valley College, shares her powerful journey and vision for diversity, equity, and inclusion. As the only black member of the SABVC's Board of Directors, Blessing reflects on the importance of representation and advocacy in leadership. She highlights how embracing one's cultural identity and seeking community support can help Black students thrive in academia while staying true to themselves. Through her leadership, Blessing advocates for a future where cultural diversity is celebrated, and all voices are heard, with practical efforts to create a more inclusive environment for students of all backgrounds. Her story is a reminder that true leadership is about empowerment, service, and collective action.

Can you share a bit about your background and what being a student leader in SABVC means to you?

"My name is Blessing Edidiong Ofurum. My origins are from the Ibibio tribe of Southern Nigeria. I am cross-culturally married; my husband is from the Igbo tribe of Eastern Nigeria. So, from my very roots, I understand diversity and inclusion in a real and practical way, and this has helped shape my perspective and engagement as a Black student leader in SABVC.

Being the only Black person on the Board of Directors of SABVC, one who came into this leadership position less than four months into my program at Bow Valley College, is a huge trust. It is a call to not only embody the hopes and aspirations of people of color in our community but, more importantly, to constructively integrate those dreams with those of other diverse groups within our community so that we can work collectively to give them expression. In the course of executing this trust, I have the privilege of synergizing daily with some of the most brilliant minds in our community and beyond towards deepening inclusion and creating a safe space for all students of our college to thrive and excel.

How has your experience as a student leader shaped your perspective on leadership and community?

As a student leader, my perspective on leadership and community has evolved in many ways. I've learned that leadership is not just about taking charge—it’s about listening, empowering others, and creating spaces where everyone feels valued. 

Being a Black student leader at Bow Valley College has reinforced the importance of representation and advocacy. I’ve seen firsthand how fostering an inclusive environment strengthens a community. Leadership isn’t just about personal success; it’s about lifting others up, breaking barriers, and ensuring that future generations have even greater opportunities. 

This experience has taught me resilience, adaptability, and the power of collective action. True leadership is about service, and my journey has been about creating meaningful change through collaboration, mentorship, and a commitment to diversity and equity.

What advice would you give to other Black students on campus, especially those who may be struggling with balancing academic pressure and their cultural identity?

Navigating the pressures of academia while staying connected to your cultural identity can sometimes feel overwhelming, but here’s some advice that might help:

1. Embrace Your Authentic Self: Your cultural background is a source of strength and pride. Let it inform your journey and be unapologetic about who you are. When you honor your identity, you not only empower yourself but also inspire people around you.

2. Seek Out Community: Build connections with peers, mentors, and groups that understand your experiences. Whether it's through student organizations, cultural clubs, religious groups, or informal networks, having a support system can make a huge difference. Sharing experiences and challenges with others who relate can provide comfort and valuable insights.

3. Practice Self-Care: It’s essential to prioritize your mental and emotional well-being. Remember that it’s okay to take breaks and recharge. Whether it's through hobbies, mindfulness practices, or simply spending time with loved ones, make time for activities that nurture you.

4. Leverage Campus Resources: Bow Valley College offers academic support, counseling services, and workshops focused on diversity and inclusion. Don't hesitate to reach out to these resources, they’re there to help you succeed both academically and personally.

5. Advocate for Yourself: If you ever feel that academic pressures are impacting your well-being, speak up. Whether it’s discussing accommodations with your instructors or seeking advice from Academic advisor, advocating for your needs is a vital part of balancing your academic responsibilities with your cultural identity.

6. Celebrate Your Achievements: Take pride in your accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem. Each success is a step toward balancing your academic journey with your cultural heritage, and it serves as a reminder that your unique perspective is an asset to your community.

Remember, your journey is uniquely yours. Balancing academic pressure with staying true to your cultural identity is a continuous process, and it's perfectly okay to seek help along the way. By embracing your identity and building a strong support network, you'll not only thrive academically but also contribute meaningfully to the rich tapestry of our campus community.

As a leader, what changes or goals do you hope to see in the future regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion at Bow Valley College?

As a leader, my vision for Bow Valley College is a future where diversity, equity, and inclusion are woven into every aspect of campus life. One of my key goals is to create an environment where all voices are not only heard but celebrated. I believe that progress starts with education, and it's crucial that instructors and staff take an active role in expanding their cultural knowledge—especially about cultures outside of Canada. This isn't just about enhancing the curriculum; it's about fostering an inclusive community that respects and learns from the global perspectives that individuals bring.

In practical terms, I hope to see professional development programs for instructors and staff that include comprehensive cultural competency training. By broadening their understanding of diverse cultures, educators can create more engaging, relatable, and respectful learning environments. Such efforts would empower students from all backgrounds to feel seen and supported.

Furthermore, I envision a campus where policies, events, and community dialogues are designed with a deep commitment to equity and inclusion. This includes creating spaces for underrepresented groups to share their experiences and perspectives, and ensuring that the voices of Black students, as well as other minorities, are at the forefront of decision-making processes.

Ultimately, my hope is that Bow Valley College will continue to evolve as a community that not only acknowledges its cultural diversity but actively leverages it as a strength. When instructors and staff commit to learning about and embracing cultures beyond their own, they become catalysts for change—helping to shape a future where diversity and inclusion are not just ideals but lived experiences for everyone on campus."