Tawakalitu Owhonda migrated to Canada as a postgraduate student in 2024. She describes her migration journey as an assortment of beautiful discoveries, inspiring lessons, and insightful experiences. Tawakalitu tells her full story here:
My name is Tawakalitu Owhonda, but most people call me Tawa. I have been in Canada for over a year, and it’s been quite an adventure. I am a postgraduate student in British Columbia, and I am enjoying this season of growth, learning, and new experiences. It has been a melange of beautiful moments and instances of profound self-discovery. Moving here meant leaving behind everything familiar, but it has also opened me up to new cultures, diverse communities, and incredible opportunities.
The weather was definitely a shock, and my heater became my safe haven; however, the people, the systems, and the sense of limitless possibilities have made the transition worth it. One thing that made this journey easier was having my sibling here in Canada. Even though he is a few hours’ drive away, just knowing I had someone familiar to call, to ask questions, or simply hear a reassuring voice, gave me a sense of comfort and belonging . .
I am still learning, still growing, and open to what lies ahead, but I am truly grateful for the personal growth I have experienced. Looking back, my most unique experience has been redefining my personal and professional brand in a new country. Back in Nigeria, I was an established entrepreneur and speaker, and moving here meant starting afresh and learning how to position my skills in a Canadian context. It entailed growing my LinkedIn presence and constantly creating content that speaks to a global audience. I also started documenting my immigrant experience while juggling assignments, presentations, and deadlines. This experience has been humbling, empowering, and a beautiful stretch.
Looking back, if I could do anything differently, I would have leaned into communities. In leadership, connection is currency. I missed out on much valuable information available to international students simply because I was trying to figure everything out independently, but having someone who has gone ahead to guide you is very important. Canada thrives on connection; the sooner you plug into supportive communities, the smoother your journey becomes. I am also very grateful to God for his grace, and as a child of God, I have learned to boldly ask Him for strength, wisdom, and direction.
To women of colour, I advise you to mingle not just within your community but with people of diverse backgrounds and nationalities. Let go of the cultural bias and fully embrace the beauty that is diversity. You belong here. Your story, your voice, and your experiences matter. Never feel less because of the colour of your skin. You are powerful, capable, and worthy. You can be anything you want, sit at the biggest boardroom tables, lead conversations, build empires, and shape industries.
Don’t shrink yourself trying to fit in. Build your tribe, stay open to learning, and trust that every step, even the tough ones, shapes you into a stronger, bolder version of yourself. And remember, your dreams are still valid, even on this side of the world.
Tawakalitu Owhonda tells her story from Victoria in British Columbia, Canada.
