We are Niagara Health is a series of stories that celebrates the incredible people working and volunteering in our organization and how they make a difference in the lives of patients and coworkers every day.
Felicia Bankole, Clinical Manager of Hemodialysis and Nephrology at the Marotta Family Hospital.
As a Black professional in healthcare, Felicia Bankole knows the impact of seeing diversity in leadership and clinical roles.
“It means a lot to walk into a room and see someone who looks like you,” says Bankole, Clinical Manager of the Hemodialysis and Nephrology Unit at the Marotta Family Hospital. “Diversity isn’t just about checking a box – it's about creating a workplace where everyone feels like they belong.”
Born and raised in Nigeria, Bankole’s journey into nursing began as a practical career decision.
“It wasn’t about following a dream first – it was simply the logical option,” she explains. “In Nigeria, you’re often faced with the decision of pursuing the arts or science-based discipline. With my father working in the sciences, choosing a career in healthcare felt like the natural thing to do.”
Immigrating to Canada in the middle of her nursing studies, Bankole was determined to continue, and worked hard to establish herself in a new country and within a demanding profession.
“One thing brings you in, but another thing makes you stay,” she says. “For me, staying in nursing became about so much more than just logic. It became about purpose.”
Bankole graduated in 2011 with a Bachelor of Science in Registered Nursing from York University and began building a career in healthcare. As she gained experience, she encountered mentors who saw her leadership potential long before she did.
“No matter where you come from or what obstacles you face, there is space for you. Take up that space."
“A pivotal moment came when a nurse educator told me, ‘You’re incredibly knowledgeable, you’re a fantastic nurse, and I can see you teaching.’”
She hesitated at first. As an introvert, Bankole never envisioned herself leading a classroom. But after discussing it with her family, who encouraged her to take the opportunity, she took the leap.
The impact of representation
She applied to both Brock University and Niagara College, securing teaching contracts at both institutions.
“I never imagined myself in that role, but taking that step opened doors I never expected,” she says.
Determined to continue growing, she pursued further education, earning a Master of Science in Nursing in 2019, and continuing to reach her potential at Niagara Health.
“I’ve been with Niagara Health for over a decade, and I’ve had the opportunity to grow so much,” she says. “I’ve worked with incredible teams, learned from great mentors, and really found my place here.”
Throughout her career, Bankole has witnessed firsthand the impact of representation.
“There’s power in being seen,” she says. “When people feel represented, it builds trust. It creates a sense of connection.”
But she also acknowledges the challenges.
“There have been moments when I’ve felt like I had to work twice as hard to prove myself. But I’ve also had incredible support from colleagues who've lifted me up and reminded me that I deserve to be here,” she says.
Bankole hopes to inspire others to step into their own power, just as her mentors inspired her.
“If I could tell my younger self anything, it would be this: ‘You belong here,’” she says. “No matter where you come from or what obstacles you face, there is space for you. Take up that space.”
Achieving true diversity and inclusion
That’s why she sees Black History Month as both a time of reflection and a call to action.
“It’s about honouring the past but also looking ahead,” she says. “We’re here. We’re making an impact. And we have so much to do.”
She advocates for creating equitable opportunities to achieve true diversity and inclusion.
“It’s not about giving everyone the same thing,” she explains. “It’s about recognizing that some people may need more support to reach the same place. Equity means meeting people where they are and giving them the tools they need to succeed.”
Bankhole has made continuous learning a priority in her own journey. That includes taking courses in Indigenous health to deepen her understanding. She encourages those she works with to do the same.
“I believe growth comes from education and engagement,” she says. “Learning about different communities is key to fostering inclusivity.”
She also sees Black History Month as an opportunity for ongoing education.
“It’s not just about reflecting on history, it’s about recognizing its ongoing impact and making sure that equity and inclusion are priorities every day, not just in February.”
