We are IH: Chioma Akinkugbe

We are IH is a recognition campaign to spotlight Interior Health employees and medical staff – through pictures and stories.

Name: Chioma Akinkugbe

Job Title: Clinical Informatics Analyst

Years of Service: 2

Worksite: Kelowna Community Health Centre

Community: Kelowna

Ancestral Territory: “Syilx” (Saay-ilks) / Okanagan Interior Salish

Favourite Quote: "God is love." 

Chioma's kind demeanour and bright smile radiate in the workplace. In all of her hard work, it's evident that her passion for technology and information management leads to effective hands-on clinical work that helps the lives of so many. Having a strong understanding and patient personality, Chioma's role as a Clinical Informatics Analyst is integral to the patient care team. Knowing each day that she is making a difference brings a sense of gratitude and pride over her. 

"As a member of the Employee Voices Advisory Group (EVAG), I've been hugely impacted. I am learning and unlearning so much as a person and an African woman. There is a lot going on in the world and I strongly believe changes can happen from small diverse groups, such as the EVAG committee. I am really looking forward to seeing a more diverse and inclusive Interior Health." _{-Chioma Akinkugbe, member of the Employee Voices Advisory Group (EVAG)}

Her sense of adventure and love of travelling came at a young age, inspired by her father who is a professor that teaches in different countries. Granted the opportunity to live in Botswana for over a year, she was mesmerized by the beauty of the country and welcomed by lovely and kind people.

Born in Ibadan, Chioma was primarily raised in Lagos, Nigeria. Chioma describes Lagos as a big city, similar to Vancouver/Toronto, and is not for the faint-hearted. Reminiscing on growing up in Lagos, she wouldn't change a thing. She explains that Nigerians are some of the nicest, happiest, and most adaptable people ever. When it comes to good food and celebrations, these are at the top of the list.

Encouraged by her Dad to move to Canada for schooling, she relocated to Abbotsford in August of 2012. Working in Miramichi, N.B., for a year, she was called back to the beautiful British Columbia. Calling Kelowna home for over five years, it's safe for Chioma to say this is now her second home.

When she isn't working, she spends her time working out, watching horror movies, reading, relaxing or planning her next adventure. Looking forward, Chioma is excited to raise her grandbabies and live a carefree life leading into retirement. Thank you, Chioma, for all that you do!  

Chioma's nomination keeps the We Are IH loop going:

“Sheena Brown-Bailey is an amazing co-worker and friend. She is the Administrative Assistant at Kelowna Community Health Centre. She is always very helpful!" _{- Chioma Akinkugbe}

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