People often say life is a journey. At just 29 years old, Richarda Gifty Nateg’s journey has already taken her halfway around the world. Possessing a lifelong passion to care for those in need, Richarda created her own destiny, on her own terms.
Creating your own destiny
Richarda grew up surrounded by love in Ghana. “I was always with my siblings and family. It was very social growing up and I loved it.” From an early age, she was inspired by the women in her life who were nurses. “Two of my aunties are nurses, and we had another three nurses who lived in our neighbourhood. They were respected. People went to them for advice and help. They were my heroes and I wanted to be like them.” Richarda knew in her heart she was meant to care for people. Growing up surrounded by nurses solidified her drive to become one herself.
When the time came for Richarda to choose her own career path, the choice was simple—she would become a nurse. But the things in life we want don’t always come easy and Richarda needed to persevere. “I knew I wanted to work in healthcare, but I felt insecure. I wasn’t the best student in high school, but I kept telling myself that I could be a nurse.” It took Richarda two attempts to complete her entrance exams, but her burning desire to help others prevailed. When it was hard, she just worked harder.
In the face of adversity, Richarda achieved her dream of helping others. “I was so happy. It was difficult but I loved what I was learning. I always wanted to be there studying. I was proud to have a career that served and helped others.” After graduation, Richarda began her career at a busy hospital in upper west Ghana. “My first day was scary. In Ghana, nurses wear a beautiful green uniform. I had worn it while I was in school but putting it on as a staff nurse for the first time was special and gave me the confidence I needed.” Richarda knew she was ready.
“[My aunties] were my heroes and I wanted to be like them.”
Expanding knowledge and horizons
As she began her caring career in Ghana, Richarda had an eye on expanding her horizons and traveling. “I always knew I wanted to further my education and explore the world. I worked up the courage to tell my parents that I wanted to further my education in Canada.” After some convincing, her parents supported her decision. She moved to Canada to take Stenberg College’s Health Care Assistant program and to further her skills and education. “I chose Canada because it’s peaceful and has a reputation for high quality education. When the Advisor told me about Stenberg College, I was eager to enroll.”
Once in Canada, Richarda met those who would support her journey to become a healthcare worker. “I made my first friends in the program. Everyone was from different places and diverse backgrounds, but we all became friends and supported each other.” The glue of the classroom was the instructor, Jenny Kim, and Richarda felt fortunate to have her. “Miss Jenny was amazing. She made classes fun which made it easier to learn. She made sure we were motivated and supported.” When passion and purpose meet, incredible things can happen; Richarda reached a level of academic excellence, achieving an astounding 94% grade point average.
“Work makes me happy.”
Seen and valued
Richarda’s classmates valued her friendship and knowledge just as much as she valued theirs. Her classmate Sadia says, “At first, some of us had challenges with the courses. After forming a study group with Richarda, everything changed. Her ability to break down complex concepts into simple terms was remarkable. Richarda always encouraged us, reminding us that we could succeed, and her confidence in our abilities motivated us to push through the difficulties.” Richarda’s earlier experience as a struggling student made her an excellent tutor for her classmates. Helping others is part of who she is.
It wasn’t just her classmates who saw Richarda’s gift for caring. Her instructor, Jenny Kim, says “Richarda excelled in both the academic and practical aspects of the program. Her exceptional clinical skills and empathetic approach to patient care have set a high standard. She always contributed to class discussions and displayed strong leadership. Her commitment to excellence and genuine passion for the healthcare field make Richarda an ideal Health Care Assistant. I have no doubt that she will continue to make significant contributions in the field.”
“I love having a relationship with my residents.”
Making a difference in Canada
Richarda began her co-op experience caring for elderly residents. She loved it. “I love having a relationship with my residents and getting to know what they like and what makes them happy. You learn how to help them as individuals.” After completing her co-op experience in Penticton, Richarda decided to settle there and start her new career in Canada as a Health Care Assistant at The Hamlets, as assisted living facility. “Work makes me happy. My residents need me and even if I’m tired, it’s always worth it to put in the extra effort to make them smile.”
Richarda is hoping to become a permanent resident in Canada and continue caring for the elderly. She has already made a name for herself at The Hamlets. Her employer, Tracy Thomas, says, “During her short time with us, Richarda has become a star employee. She gets along with everyone and treats the residents with dignity and respect.” That sums up Richarda: she is someone who cares deeply enough to put the extra effort in and make sure those she helps are as happy as they can be.
“During her short time with us, Richarda has become a star employee.” – Tracy Thomas, The Hamlets
In the future, Richarda sees herself returning to Stenberg College and become a Licensed Practical Nurse. Richarda has truly found her calling—caring for those that need her.
