My name is Bisola and I came to Canada as an international student from Nigeria in 2018. I have a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) degree in Entrepreneurship and Accounting. I am passionate about helping others navigate the job market and immigration processes. Currently, I work in corporate support, primarily focusing on HR, and. I’m also the Founder of a beauty tech company that I’m actively working on developing. Outside of work, I enjoy exploring new restaurants, getting lost in a good book and braiding hair (sometimes).
Amaka is a Nigerian-Canadian who moved to Canada as an International student in 2014. She truly understands how overwhelming it can be to build a new life here and is dedicated to supporting mentees with navigating the academic environment and job market.
Her journey has led her through nursing school, a BSc in Psychology, and now an ongoing certification in project management. Amaka is a Child and Youth Worker, an aspiring global health leader, and volunteer with the regional government immunization clinic.
Outside of work she enjoys exploring new places or activities, watching movies, reading novels, and socializing with loved ones.
Obim is a Nigerian-Canadian that moved to Canada in 2011. She has a BSc in Biological Science from Ontario Tech University, and is currently pursuing her medical education at St. George’s University (SGU) Grenada.She also has over 6 years of experience working as a Senior Administrative Assistant at Princess Margaret Cancer Research Institute.
She is passionate about reproductive justice and addressing health inequalities, as well as mentorship, leveraging her experiences, skills, and knowledge to offer meaningful support to others.
Outside of medicine and research, Obim enjoys watching animal videos, spending time with her loved ones, sharing meals and listening to music.
Hi, I’m Chinweizu Okeke. I’m Nigerian, moved to Canada in 2013 for university in Toronto and currently work as a Research & Policy Associate for an environment economy think tank. I chose to be a mentor in this programme because my friend asked me, and because my time as an international student and then a work permit holder was instructive in my development here. As such, I feel like I can share lessons from those experiences with incoming students, while also learning from them and seeing what- if anything- has changed in the experience of an international student in Canada.
My hobbies include playing and watching far too much football, working out, reading, listening to music and podcasts, cooking, cycling and jamming with my friends (I play drums).
I’m Cynthia, a former international student from Nigeria who has built a career at the intersection of sports, media, and digital innovation. I hold a BA in International Relations from Carleton University and a Master’s in Digital Product Management from Queen’s University, and I currently work in project management. I’m passionate about continuous learning, so much so that I’m currently pursuing my MBA, while also volunteering in my community and consulting with non‑profit organizations on marketing and operational improvement. Outside of my professional and academic life, I love reading and unwinding with a good Netflix series, and I’m always looking for new ways to grow and support others on their journey.
Daniella Djaigbe is a bilingual mentor and University of Toronto graduate originally from the Benin Republic. Having studied in France, Tunisia, and Senegal—where she earned her International Baccalaureate (IB)—she brings with her a rich understanding of diverse cultures and global perspectives.
Daniella is passionate about uplifting youth and supporting their personal development. She brings a thoughtful, compassionate approach to mentorship, helping individuals build confidence, navigate challenges, and recognize their strengths. Her multicultural background, academic experience, and strong interpersonal skills allow her to create an encouraging environment where growth and development are always prioritized.
Deborah is passionate about guiding others through growth, healing, and self-discovery. Her journey began when she moved to Canada in 2016 at the age of 13, navigating a new country, a new culture, and a new education system. After completing high school, she pursued Social Services at Durham College, where her dedication to supporting others truly took shape.
With hands-on experience working with women and children fleeing abuse, she understands the importance of safe support systems and positive role models. Through mentorship, she aims to empower others to build healthy habits, strengthen their confidence, and see the greatness within themselves. Her mission is to encourage, uplift, and walk alongside others as they discover who they are and who they can become.
In her spare time, she loves any excuse to dress up, whether that’s checking out new food spots or enjoying random hangout events within her community. She believes joy, connection, and self-expression are all powerful parts of a healthy life.
Desiree Israel (she/her) is a Human Resources professional originally from Nigeria, who moved to Canada in 2014. With a passion for mentorship, Desiree chose to be a mentor in the Itoju Mentoring Program to empower international, helping them build confidence and break through personal and professional barriers. She is driven by the belief that mentorship fosters growth and opens doors to new opportunities. Outside of her professional life, you can find Desiree engaging in faith-based discussions, volunteering, reading, writing, and spending quality time with her family.
Evelyn Oboro is a multidisciplinary professional with over 15 years of experience in architecture,
urban planning, project management, and sustainability. She recently completed graduate studies at Seneca Polytechnic in Sustainable Business Management and Urban Transportation Planning, where she also served as a Student Support & Event Coordinator and Lead Mentor, supporting international and mature students in navigating academic, professional, and personal transitions.
Evelyn has a strong track record of mentorship, community engagement, and student advocacy, having represented thousands of students as a panelist during Seneca’s Open House and leading initiatives that foster inclusivity, resource accessibility, and career development. She is also deeply committed to values of care, collaboration, and empowerment, and brings a holistic, strengths-based approach to mentoring.
As a mentor, Evelyn is passionate about helping mentees build confidence, identify their goals, and develop strategies that support both their academic and personal growth. She believes that
mentorship is not just about guidance, but about creating space for connection, self-discovery, and long-term success.
Immigrated to Canada from Lagos, Nigeria in 2010, in search of a better education and a better way of life. I found myself in the kitchen, and I never looked back. I have worked in the numerous restaurants, where I have acquired the knowledge to successfully operate any type of restaurant concept. Food is my passion, and educating people is my calling. I am excited to share my knowledge with the next generation.
Funmi is a doctoral candidate in Forensic Psychology. She earned her bachelor’s degree in
Psychology from the University of Lagos, Nigeria, and completed her Master’s in Forensic
Psychology at Ontario Tech University. Recognizing that navigating university life can be
challenging, Funmi values mentorship as a source of guidance and support. She is
committed to making meaningful contributions to students’ well-being through her role as a
Mentor.
Grace is a Chemical Systems Modeling Engineer with a background in clean energy and data-driven system optimization. Passionate about mentorship and community building, she helps students and early-career professionals gain clarity, skills, and confidence in their journeys. Grace is committed to empowering underrepresented voices in STEM and guiding others toward growth and opportunity.
Kamsiyonna Obi is a software developer with a knack for solving problems and building systems that make work (and life) easier. Originally from Nigeria and now calling Canada home for almost a decade, Kamsiyonna blends technical skills with creativity, both at work and outside it. When he’s not coding or collaborating with teams, you’ll likely find him behind a camera, telling stories and exploring his passion for filmmaking. For him, technology and storytelling connect people and create impact.
Hi! My name is Moyo. I was born and raised in Lagos, Nigeria, and moved to Toronto, Canada in 2015 as an international student. Over the past decade, I’ve gained valuable (and still-growing!) insights into navigating adulthood, building community, and thriving as an immigrant.
Professionally, I work in Human Resources as a Talent Specialist, where I lead campus recruitment and support the development of students and early-career talent. As a mentor, I’m passionate about helping students recognize their potential, stay accountable to their goals, and prioritize holistic wellness.
Outside of work, I love yapping with friends (and my co-host on Peas In a Podcast), exploring the city, reading, listening to music, practicing calligraphy, and—of course—scrolling TikTok.
Hi, I’m Nneoma.
I moved from Lagos, Nigeria to Canada in 2010 as an international student. My journey navigating multiple post-secondary institutions in Canada as an international student is what inspires me to be a mentor with Itoju. As a mentor I would offer academic support, career development and practical tips for adapting to life in Canada. I hold a Master’s degree in Public Policy and Administration and currently work as a Policy Advisor at the Ontario Ministry of Health. Outside of work, I enjoy staying active- whether it’s attempting 5km runs, attending yoga and Pilates classes, or taking long walks. I’m also passionate about community service.
Ololade is a final-year Psychology student at Carleton University, with a concentration in Social
and Personality Psychology. She moved to Canada from Nigeria in 2022 to pursue her studies,
and since then, has served as a Peer Mentor, a community leader, and a residence assistant on
campus. Through her experience and working in these roles, she discovered her passion for
fostering inclusive communities and promoting individuals’ mental and social wellness. Ololade
is also passionate about her Christian faith and the ways it shapes her approach to mentorship
and care. Outside academics, she enjoys singing, dancing, and has even hosted and taught
dance workshops.
Born and raised in Nigeria, Omaina (she/her) moved to Canada from the United States in 2018 after completing her bachelors degree to pursue her Master of Social Work.
She is a creative, and adaptable professional with a strong background in mental health and social work, supporting Black-identifying postgraduate students
During her fellowship in Ghana, she supported female social entrepreneurs through the facilitation of impactful learning sessions.
Her passion for creative expression is evident through Zakilobakes, a custom dessert business where she combines her love of baking with community engagement, showcasing her unique desserts.
As a lifestyle content creator, she inspires others through reflections on self-awareness, mental health, and the importance of romanticizing life.
As a mentor, she is passionate about empowering others to build confidence, navigate new environments and unlock their potential.
In addition to making and content creation she loves solo dates spending time with friends, reality tv and anything romance!
Ronke is a Nigerian Canadian; she was born and raised in Nigeria and moved to Canada to earn her undergraduate degree. She graduated from Ontario Tech University with a Bachelor of Science (Hons) degree in Nursing in 2017. She is a Registered nurse and an aspiring infection control practitioner. Over the past seven years, she has provided nursing services in acute and public health settings and continues to do so. She was actively involved in mitigating the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada, including care for people acutely infected with COVID-19, mass vaccination clinics, contact tracing, and case management. Her work during the pandemic inspired her need for further education.
In 2024, she completed a master’s degree in public health at the University of Ottawa, focusing on public health practices. She is passionate about health, the impact social determinants of health have on one’s ability to make healthier lifestyle choices, and reducing the acquisition and transmission of infectious diseases in public and acute healthcare settings.
Outside work, she enjoys reading, weightlifting, taking long walks, visiting museums, fashion, and traveling.
Ronke overcame various challenges to achieve her goals and loves the opportunity to support others in their journey.
Rubby Nwaluka is a Nigerian – Canadian living, working, and schooling in Toronto. She has a strong knowledge of Social Justice Education with my current interest in Storytelling and Cross-Cultural solidarity. She is a Program Manager at the Ontario Trillium Foundation with over eight years of working in the philanthropic and non-profit sectors. She is currently doing a Professional master’s in social justice education with a Women and Gender Studies collaboration at the University of Toronto. Rubby is dedicated to finding her voice through learning, community, and reflection, which reflects how I engage with everything. Her journey with social justice has always been selfish, but I think this journey has birthed so much good. In her spare time, she loves to dance, watch anime, sleep, and talk and laugh with the people she loves.
Sayo is a Digital Shelf Lead at Kenvue with experience navigating complex corporate environments while building meaningful creative projects on the side as an aspiring stand-up comedian. Outside of work, he co-hosts one of Nigeria’s leading comedy podcasts, which keeps his approach to relationships grounded, human, and honest.
Ugochi Frances Nwadioke is passionate about wellness, personal growth, and helping people step into the best version of themselves. She has a background in human resources, health promotion, and peer support, and enjoys creating safe, encouraging spaces where others feel heard, understood, and confident in their journey.
Ugochi believes in the power of representation, community care, and showing up for others with empathy. Through mentorship, she hopes to empower young people to build self-awareness, explore their strengths, and trust their voice especially during moments of transition or uncertainty.
Outside mentoring, Ugochi enjoys journaling, learning new skills, mindfulness practices, and connecting with nature. She is guided by kindness, curiosity, and the belief that small encouragement can change the course of a life.
My name is Yomade Olagunju, I recently graduated with a Bachelors of Arts in Sociology from Brock University. I am passionate about supporting Black youth, refugees and individuals from other marginalized groups. Outside of school, I enjoy volunteering with community organisations that share the same values with me with the goal of making the world a better and more comfortable place for everyone to live in. I am very excited to be a part of Itoju and I look forward to both contributing my experiences and learning from others.