My decision to move to Canada from Nigeria as computed tomography (CT) technologist was driven by a desire for professional growth, new opportunities and the chance to contribute to a health care system known for its high standards of patient care and innovation.
British Columbia stood out for me because the province offers excellent opportunities for medical imaging professionals to develop their skills and advance their careers. Beyond the professional aspects, I was drawn to British Columbia’s natural beauty, multicultural environment and quality of life.
I chose the Fraser Health region because of its reputation for delivering quality patient care, diverse populations across one of the fastest growing regions in British Columbia. The opportunity to serve a wide range of patients and to work within a large, integrated health care system was particularly appealing to me as it provides exposure to diverse clinical cases and continuous learning opportunities.
Settling into living and working in Canada has been both exciting and rewarding. Like many newcomers, there was an adjustment period as I became familiar with a new health care system, workplace culture and daily life. However, the support I received from my colleagues, supervisors and the broader community made the transition much smoother than I anticipated.
The orientation and onboarding process was very helpful in introducing me to the health care system, organizational policies and patient care practices. These resources helped me understand not only how things are done but also the values and culture that guide health care delivery in Canada.
What I enjoy most about my role so far is the direct impact I get to make on patient care, even in what may seem like routine imaging procedures. Being part of the diagnostic process and knowing that accurate imaging contributes to timely and effective treatment decisions is very fulfilling.
Recently I had the opportunity to present about rapid CT stroke pathways at the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT) Conference in Victoria, B.C. It was a valuable experience that provided me with opportunities to learn, network with professionals and gain insights into current developments in medical imaging and patient care.
My advice to anyone considering relocating to Canada to work in health care is to be patient, prepared and open to learning. The process can take time, from credential recognition and licensing requirements to securing employment and settling into a new environment—it’s important to research the requirements early and plan ahead.
I would just like to add that this transition has been a meaningful step in my professional journey and I am genuinely grateful for the opportunity to be part of the health care system here in Canada.
