When Blessing immigrated to Canada from Nigeria in 2024, she had one goal in mind: to find a career that would bring joy to her life. One year later, she smiles as she says, “I accomplished that goal.”
Blessing began her career as a Health Care Aide (HCA) at Extendicare Vista Park Lodge in Winnipeg, Manitoba, after graduating from Robertson College’s Health Care Aide Program.
Students in college program spend six months learning in the classroom before completing a six-week practicum. Blessing chose Vista Park Lodge for her practicum placement, where she was able to put her classroom learnings into practice while caring for residents. In long-term care homes and other care settings, HCA’s play an important role in delivering daily care to residents. They may help with personal hyenine, dressing, emotional support, and helping residents with mobility.
A team that made an impact
At the end of Blessing’s placement, there was an opportunity for her to apply for an open role at Vista Park Lodge.
“During the practicum, I saw how dedicated the team at Vista Park Lodge is at carrying out Extendicare’s purpose of helping people live better,” she says. “I love learning from them every day at work. It is an honour to work with them”
For Blessing, it wasn’t just the team that stood out – it was also the vibrant community of residents and the opportunity to care for older adults.
“It is a privilege to age – I am reminded of that every day at Vista Park Lodge,” she says. “I love caring for seniors. They have a lot of wisdom to pass down others.” A special memory that stays with her is when a resident offered her a blessing, a heartwarming nod to her own name.
Supporting the next generation of Health Care Aides
Blessing is one of many Health Care Aide graduates from Robertson College and other academic institutions in Winnipeg, who have gone on to build rewarding careers at Vista Park Lodge. Ashley, the Director of Care at the home, credits the supportive team as a key reason why graduates choose to stay past their practicum.
“Our team is comprised of friendly and collaborative people,” says Ashley. “It creates a welcoming environment that fosters learning and development.”
The team at Vista Park Lodge is now preparing to welcome the next cohort of Health Care Aide students this winter.
A career rooted in compassion
As for Blessing, she looks forward to continuing her work as a Health Care Aide and hopes to pursue nursing credentials in the coming years.
“I see the residents as my family members. Working in seniors’ care is the most fulfilling decision I could make for my job,” she says with pride. Blessing embodies our Mission, Vision and Values, through caring for others as she would her own family, working collaboratively with her team, and striving to make every day meaningful for residents at Extendicare Vista Park Lodge.