Mentorship

Guidance Rooted in Culture and Connection 

 

The transition to Canadian nursing can feel overwhelming, especially when done in isolation. Our mentorship program pairs IENS from the listed African-Caribbean countries currently undergoing the licensure process with experienced African-Caribbean nurses who understand their challenges, their culture, and have experienced and overcome barriers faced by black internationally trained Nurses within the Canadian healthcare workplace 

You Don’t Have to Do This Alone 

 

Starting the process to become a licensed nurse in Canada can feel overwhelming and expensive, especially when you’re navigating new systems, exams, and cultural differences. Our mentorship program connects you with experienced African-Caribbean nurses who’ve walked this path and are ready to support you with empathy, insight, and practical advice. You are also considered for our needs-based financial assistance to help cover costs associated with licensing. Whether you’re beginning your NNAS application, preparing for the NCLEX or CPNRE, or transitioning into your first Canadian nursing job, this program is made for you. 

 

What you will gain as a mentee 

 

By joining the mentorship program, you will receive: 

  • Personalized afro-centric guidance through the licensing process (NNAS, NSCN, NANB, exams) 
  • Study tips and resources for success in NCLEX-RN or CPNRE 
  • Professional advice on adapting to Canadian healthcare standards with a focus on Nova Scotia and New Brunswick 
  • Support with cultural adjustment, workplace expectations, and confidence-building 
  • Financial assistance to support licensure process (optional) 
  • Connection to community, you’re not alone, and your story matters! 
  • Access to apply to our licensure financial support program 

 

How the Program Works 

 

  • Sign Up as a Mentee 
  • Complete a brief profile so we can match you with a mentor who fits your goals and background and consider you for financial support (optional). 
  • Get Matched and sign a mentee conduct agreement and a financial agreement 
  • You will be paired with a licensed African-Caribbean nurse currently practicing in Nova Scotia or New Brunswick. 
  • Connect and Set Goals 
  • Meet with your mentor (virtually or in-person) and outline your short- and long-term objectives. 
  • Grow with Support 
  • Stay connected for regular check-ins, skill-building, and encouragement throughout your journey. 
  • Build a mentor-mentee partnership lasting between 6–12 months, with flexible time commitments depending on your needs (minimum of 6 meetings throughout the duration) 

Who Can Apply? 

You are eligible to be a mentee if you: 

  • Are an internationally educated nurse from and Nigeria, Jamaica, Cameroon, Dominica Republic or Ghana 
  • Are pursuing or considering nursing licensure in Nova Scotia or New Brunswick or overseas but advanced in immigration process to Nova Scotia or New Brunswick 
  • Are open to learning, growing, and connecting with others 
  • Value cultural understanding and shared experiences 

 

What We Expect from You 

 

  • A commitment to stay engaged and communicate respectfully 
  • A willingness to set and work toward realistic goals 
  • Respect for your mentor’s time and lived experience 

Remember: Your mentor is here to guide and support, not replace official licensing advice or do the work for you. 

Ready to go? Click here to access the Mentee Application portal.

Empower the Next Generation of Afro-Caribbean Nurses in Atlantic Canada 

 

Why Mentor? 

 

We rise by lifting each other 

 

As a licensed African-Caribbean nurse in Canada, your experience is powerful. You have navigated the complexities of credentialing, licensing exams, and cultural adjustment, and now, you have the opportunity to guide others who are just starting this journey. 

 

By becoming a mentor, you will: 

  • Make a meaningful impact in someone’s professional and personal life 
  • Support culturally relevant success in nursing across Nova Scotia and New Brunswick 
  • Strengthen the African-Caribbean nursing community through shared knowledge and solidarity 
  • Gain leadership and coaching skills while giving back to your profession as well as enriching your professional skills on your resume and profile! 

 

What Does Mentorship Involve? 

 

We value flexible, respectful, and goal-oriented mentorship. As a mentor, you will: 

  • Offer guidance on licensure pathways (NNAS, NCLEX, NSCN/NANB registration) 
  • Share insights on working in Canadian healthcare settings 
  • Help mentees navigate cultural transitions and professional expectations 
  • Provide emotional support and encouragement 
  • Set goals with your mentee and meet virtually or in-person (as available) 

Mentors typically commit to 2–4 hours per month for 1 year. We’ll match you with mentees based on province, specialty, availability, and language preferences. 

 

 

Who Can Be a Mentor? 

 

You’re eligible to become a mentor if you: 

  • Are a registered nurse (RN), licensed practical nurse (LPN), or nurse practitioner (NP) currently licensed and practicing in Nova Scotia or New Brunswick 
  • Self-identify as African-Caribbean from Nigeria, Cameroon, Jamaica, Ghana or Dominica Republic, with strong connections to the community 
  • Are willing to share your experiences with respect, compassion, and professionalism 
  • Willing to commit to a mentor-mentee partnership lasting between 6–12 months, with flexible time commitments depending on your needs (minimum of 6 meetings throughout the duration) 
  • Available to attend a 2 hour one off paid one off “mentorship induction” workshop 
  • Have a desire to uplift and empower other internationally educated nurses 

 

Support for Mentors 

 

You won’t be alone. As a mentor, you’ll receive: 

  • Mentorship orientation (paid) and resources 
  • Access to our Mentorship Toolkit with conversation guides and planning templates 
  • Ongoing support from our program coordinators 
  • Invitations to training workshops and recognition events 

Ready to go? Click here to access the Mentor Application portal