Black Youth Healthcare Experience Day at Colchester East Hants Health Centre

A future in healthcare was on full display last month in Truro for a group of Black high school students who rubbed shoulders with Black professionals who shared their journeys and showed the teens they too belong in these spaces.

“We know our healthcare providers need to reflect the diversity of our communities,” said Dr. Ryan Sommers, family and public health physician and facilitator of the initiative. “This day is about showing students they can contribute to the healthcare for their communities and an opportunity for them to learn about the path to becoming a healthcare worker.”

On Aug. 25, students saw that first-hand during a Black Youth Healthcare Experience Day at Colchester East Hants Health Centre. The event, in partnership with the Black Youth Development and Mentorship Program (BYDMP), introduced high school students to healthcare careers and connected them with Black professionals who shared their stories and advice.

The BYDMP offers Black students in Grade 11 and 12 paid, eight-week summer jobs with the Government of Nova Scotia. Students gain work experience, connect with mentors, and explore career options across government, including healthcare. This day came together with support from Rita Antwi Agyei and Mahogany O’Keiffe of the Department of Health and Wellness, who worked with Sommers to create the opportunity.

Students toured the simulation lab, hospital laboratory, rehabilitation services and emergency department trauma rooms. They then joined Black healthcare professionals who work at the hospital for an open Q&A. From pharmacy to social work, staff spoke about what drew them into healthcare, the challenges they faced and the rewards of their work. Several students raised their hands to share interest in rehabilitation and pharmacy, eager to learn more about those career paths.

Raj Makkar, a long-time team member, described for the teens how supportive the culture is at the site. “I’ve been here for 34 years, and it feels like family. We look after each other and today, you’re meeting part of that family.”

Students built connections, exchanged contact information with staff, and left with a clearer view of the opportunities ahead. 

Trevor Jordan is the liaison co-ordinator with the Northern Zone Brotherhood Initiative, a free health and wellness program for Black men. He shared his perspective on the value of building networks between youth, providers, and communities. “Events like these are crucial in planting the seeds within our youth. If they can see it, they can become it. If they believe it, they can achieve it,” said Jordan. 

Thank you to the Nova Scotia Health staff and physicians who gave their time to guide and inspire the next generation of Black health leaders in the province.

Photo of students and staff connect during a career exploration day focused on health care pathways.