By Guangke Dai, Communications Officer (Ann & Jo-Ann Sobkow Award)
We are thrilled to introduce Rachel Kimani, the 2024 MOSAIC Ann & Jo-Ann Sobkow Award recipient. Rachel’s dedication to education and community service makes her a deserving winner of this prestigious award.
Rachel’s academic journey is nothing short of impressive. She arrived in Canada from Nakuru, Kenya, on October 27, 2023, with a Bachelor of Science in Textiles, Clothing, and Design and a Master of Business Administration in Human Resource Management. Her decision to move was driven by a desire for peace, renewal, and the freedom to live authentically.
Before coming to Canada, Rachel worked in higher education administration and consultancy. She has been a lecturer, department head, and consultant, interacting with various professionals and sectors. Despite her extensive experience, Rachel faces the challenge of re-establishing her career in Canada.
As a newcomer, she encounters restrictions in her opportunities. Financing her education is also a significant hurdle, and establishing a professional network in a new country takes time. Undeterred, she is now focused on transitioning into healthcare, with the goal of becoming a registered nurse and, later, a professional coach in nursing and healthcare.
“I am a believer that true empowerment rests in knowledge. This is my inspiration towards pursuing new knowledge to create a strong foundation as a healthcare professional,” Rachel shares. She believes that proper growth and empowerment come from knowledge, and she is a living example of this belief.
According to Rachel, the Ann & Jo-Ann Sobkow Award holds significant meaning: “This award provides personal recognition of my passion for contributing to social services and supporting others in everyday life. It inspires me to strengthen my role and passion in a healthcare career.” The award will help her pursue a Healthcare Assistant Program, a crucial step toward becoming a registered nurse.
Rachel is an active member of her new community. She volunteers at the Greater Vancouver Food Bank, supporting warehouse operations, program packs, events, and food distribution. Her work has a direct impact on the lives of those in need, making a significant difference in the community. Additionally, she contributes to the Three Links Foundation, assisting with their breakfast program for people without homes, where she helps in food preparation, serving guests, and managing the clothing department.
Her dedication to helping others is unwavering. Looking ahead, she plans to use her skills to give back to the community through continuous volunteer work and participation in community welfare programs.
Rachel’s story is one of remarkable resilience, passion, and commitment. Her journey from Kenya to Canada, her professional achievements, and her dedication to community service embody the spirit of the MOSAIC Ann & Jo-Ann Sobkow Award. We are proud to celebrate her accomplishments and support her as she continues to make a positive impact in her new home.
We extend our warmest congratulations and best wishes to Rachel on winning the 2024 MOSAIC Awards as she embarks on this new chapter. Her unique perspective as an immigrant in the healthcare field brings a fresh outlook and a commitment to inclusivity, and we are confident she will continue to inspire and make a meaningful difference in her community.
