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Joy-Ebenezer-Alawode
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Nigerian - Calgary
Art by Emily Honderich
Joy-Ebenezer-Alawode story
Joy-Ebenezer-Alawode is a Nigerian-Canadian who lives in Calgary with her family. She is a mother of three wonderful children. She landed in Canada with her 17 month-old-son who is 6years old now and she has two beautiful daughters ages 4 and 2 who were born here in Canada. Joy is safety certified with OSHA United States (Occupational Safety and Health Academy) and she is currently studying Information Technology for her MBA with University of Cumbria, UK. Joy loves singing, travelling and writing and joined the “Shoe Project” team to enhance her writing, vocal and presentation skills.
Surprise Package
The COVID-19 outbreak has come as a nightmare to me, everyone, and the world at large. This virus shows that humans are the same, irrespective of class, gender, religion, and nationality. With COVID-19, there is no gender differentiation and the rich are as much affected as the poor. Looking at the present you can only imagine what the future holds with socialism and relationship, but one thing is sure, which is family time. I respect family and marriage, and COVID has taught me how to add value, sparkle, and appreciate my family even more. Although there is a high rate of divorce, to appreciate what you have aligns with longevity.
COVID-19 has impacted my life both positively and negatively. For example, it’s been a passion to further my education since last year, so I applied to various schools. I chose a school because of their faith background and submitted all the documents they requested. Yet I was denied admission, quoting, “I must provide proof of English proficiency.” I wrote an English language assessment test which I passed, but it was not accepted, even though their website states that you can demonstrate your English proficiency by other means. Also, an attestation letter from a writing coach, stating my proficiency in English, wasn’t honoured. This felt like racism and discrimination to me. “I have faced racism in so many ways and it is painful. COVID-19 has brought up this topic of “racism.”” No matter how it’s downplayed, discussed, or pampered, it exists. I hope there will be a balance someday.
I understand companies are going through a lot of difficult times, which has left them with no option but to lay off many of their employees. Two of my brothers and my sister-in-law lost their jobs too but in the line of positivity, I was finally admitted to an MBA program, which feels fulfilling.
In closing, I would like to thank the Canadian Government as they ensure that those without jobs and those with low incomes get financial support.
"This virus shows that humans are the same, irrespective of class, gender, religion, and nationality. With COVID-19, there is no gender differentiation and the rich are as much affected as the poor. Looking at the present you can only imagine what the future holds with socialism and relationship, but one thing is sure, which is family time."