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Adenike Adefila
Psychiatric Nurse
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“Moving to Manitoba and being part of the health system is like joining a community.
You meet people from so many backgrounds who all care about the work they do. If you’re passionate about taking care of people and want to make a difference, become a nurse here.”
It was always Canada
Nurse Adenike’s Journey Home to Manitoba
Growing up in Nigeria, Adenike Adefila never imagined nursing as part of her future. That changed during her final year of high school, when her mother became ill. Adenike spent nearly a month at her bedside in the hospital; a time that would shape the course of her life.
“It was the first time I really saw what nurses do,” said Adenike. “One nurse in particular stood out—she was passionate, kind, and supportive. She became a mentor to me.”
That experience changed everything. What began as a difficult family moment soon became a source of purpose. Adenike decided to pursue nursing and, over time, discovered a passion for psychiatric nursing and mental health care.
After completing her education to become a nurse in Nigeria, Adenike continued her professional journey in the United Kingdom (UK), where she became licensed and worked as a registered mental health nurse.
“Everyone who knows me – knows that I’ve always wanted to live in Canada. The UK experience was a stepping stone for me,” explained Adenike.
For Adenike, Canada was always the goal. Drawn to a healthcare system that values compassion, opportunity, and diversity, she saw Canada as a place where she could grow professionally while building a meaningful life for her family.
After discussing the move with her husband and children, their decision was unanimous to support Adenike and her dreams. When comparing provinces, it was Manitoba that stood out above the others for its clarity, openness, and welcoming spirit. When she first arrived to Manitoba to write her psychiatric nursing exam, it simply felt right.
“It felt like home,” she said. “It was diverse, friendly, and welcoming. I could picture my family living here.”
From the sense of community to the kindness of colleagues, Adenike describes Manitoba as a place where people genuinely care for one another. She credits the Health Care Retention and Recruitment team—who made her transition smoother and supported her through job offers, timelines, and immigration realities.
“They were phenomenal,” she said. “They helped me find the right position for me while I waited for my permanent residency. That meant everything.”
In December 2024, Adenike and her family arrived in Selkirk, Manitoba—straight into the traditional below zero temperatures of a prairie winter.
“When I first walked out of the airport it was minus 34,” she laughed. “I thought, ‘Did I make a mistake?’”
As the seasons changed, so did that chilly first impression. They warmed up to Manitoba through community events and colleagues who helped their family settle in. Those moments of connection quickly made Manitoba feel like home.
“Friendly Manitoba is real,” Adenike smiled. “This is home now.”
Adenike has found her place at the Selkirk Mental Health Centre as a float psychiatric nurse thriving on the variety and opportunities to keep learning as she works in multiple departments including acute, forensic, and specialized units.
“I’m adventurous and enjoy moving between different areas, meeting new people, and learning new skills.”
Adenike added, “It’s those moments when I get to help someone at their lowest and see them improve—that’s the fulfilling part. It’s not just about making a living; it’s about impacting lives.”
For Adenike, the path from Nigeria to the UK to Manitoba was never about distance — it was about finding home. She’s found exactly that, a place where her skills are valued, her family is supported, and her calling as a nurse continues to grow.
“Moving to Manitoba and being part of the health system is like joining a community,” she said. “You meet people from so many backgrounds who all care about the work they do. If you’re passionate about taking care of people and want to make a difference, become a nurse here.”
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Across the province, nurses bring skill, compassion and commitment to every patient, every shift. Their work strengthens communities and ensures Manitobans receive high-quality, patient-centered care when they need it most. To learn more about building a meaningful nursing career in Manitoba visit our nursing careers page and connect with our recruitment team.