Finding a Path and Purpose with United Way
Olatunbosun Obiwale’s story is one of resilience and determination. At just 15 years old, she moved from Nigeria to Canada with her family, stepping into an entirely new environment. Not only did she have to adjust to a new country, but she also faced the challenge of starting at a new school and building connections with unfamiliar peers. Bosun recalls feeling out of place and struggling to adapt, saying, “During this time, I was having a hard time integrating myself in this new school.” As she navigated the differences between the Nigerian and Canadian school systems, she sought support to help guide her. It was at this time that she became involved with United Way. She joined their “On Track to Success Program”- an experience she believes played a crucial role in her journey, and one she can’t imagine being without.
Bosun reflects on the positive impact this organization had not only on her life, but also on her sister’s, who joined shortly after. She shares, “I found a really good community- people my age, from my culture, and others who understood exactly what I was going through.” Beyond that, the organization offered a wide range of supports for both her and her sister. They helped Bosun get her driver’s license. Through extra lessons, after school study sessions, and community events, the sisters became more engaged in school. The family also received support with basic needs, including grocery assistance. As a result of their involvement, Bosun and her sister developed a closer bond. When it came time to make post-secondary decisions, her after school coach provided valuable guidance, helping Bosun choose courses aligned with her goals and supporting her through the application process. She explains, “they made it easier for me to understand what I want to do, and who I am, and they helped me with my university application too. They also helped me receive bursaries. I still have friends from United Way that helped me along the way.”
Last summer, Bosun participated in the EMP program (Executive Mentorship Program) through United Way. This program gives students real-world experience, helping them better understand the career paths they may want to pursue. After a successful interview, Bosun was excited for the opportunity, believing it would bring her clarity towards her future goals. She knew she wanted a career that would help people, but she wasn’t sure what that would look like.
Through the EMP program, Bosun joined the ELP (Elder Life Program) at Hotel-Dieu Grace Hospital. There, she was paired with a mentor named Sam, who guided her as she explored her career options. In her role, Bosun supported elderly patients by talking to them, taking them for walks, and offering companionship. She also learned about their individual needs and shared that information with their medical team to help improve their care. Through this experience, she realized that every patient requires a different approach-what works for one person might not work for another.
Bosun found this experience incredibly meaningful, and it confirmed her desire to pursue a career focused on helping others. Even after completing the program, she says that she has continued her mentorship with Sam and now feels confident about the direction of her studies.
Bosun shares, “the United Way has helped me so much-it was the foundation for understanding what I really want to do.” Her confidence has grown, knowing she has ongoing support from this organization. She is preparing to graduate from University of Windsor this fall with a double major and is currently deciding between two career paths: becoming a paralegal or a teacher.
Although her journey has not been easy, Bosun remained determined, even when she didn’t have all the answers. Joining United Way gave her the support she needed to stay focused and work toward achieving her dreams.
