We Are IH: Clinical practice educator passionate about teaching

As a dedicated and passionate nurse and educator, Adigo has served for over a decade in various roles with Interior Health. Her journey began at Thompson Rivers University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Later, she received her Master of Nursing.

In an ongoing pursuit to providing quality care to people of all demographics, Adigo strives to learn and teach about the most recent approaches to inclusivity in health care. “I get so much joy from seeing how much people light up when they have new information. Knowledge is power, and as much as I can support this for folks, I am fulfilled. Having the most up-to-date, evidence-based knowledge is crucial to ensuring that health-care workers provide the best care to their patients,” says Adigo.

As a professional in building meaningful connections, Adigo can connect with students and trainees to further advocate for human rights in her field of work. She has been a member of many important groups such as her position as co-chair of the Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) anti-racism council, which supports the board of directors in an advisory capacity. She is also the president and co-founder of Igala Canada, which seeks to unify Igala peoples in Canada and promote Igala culture, while also advocating against any forms of discrimination impacting their community. 

Additionally, she is one of the co-founders of the Coalition of African, Caribbean and Black Nurses in BC (CACBN). “The coalition has been very vocal about the need for equity within the health-care system by raising awareness on the challenges, barriers and health needs of African, Caribbean, and Black people living in the province. CACBN is an organizational member of the Pan-Canadian Association of Nurses of African Descent (PCANAD), which represents organizations from each province within Canada. I serve as the inaugural director of finance with this national association; the first of its kind,” explains Adigo. 

Her work has been recognized through winning the 2022 BC Nurses Union Excellence in Leadership and Advocacy Award, and induction into the Honor Society of Nursing. And – if you weren’t inspired enough – she was named one of Canada’s Top 100 Black Women to Watch in 2023 and, more recently, she will be receiving a 100 Accomplished Black Canadian Women award in September 2024 in Toronto. 

When Adigo takes one of her rare breaks, you may find her travelling with her husband Jacob and children Olivia and Owen or being a contestant with her brothers on season 3 of Family Feud Canada.

“Heather embodies an inspirational leader and mentor. During my time on the Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) team in Kamloops, Heather was my team lead and led the team with the highest of standards. Heather continues to support so many strong leaders across the health authority. I can attest to my personal and professional growth with special thanks to Heather for laying a solid foundation.” - Adigo Angela Achoba-Omajali

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