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Congratulations to our 2025 fall graduates! We're so proud of what you've accomplished. Read more of our convocation features.

Name: Joanna Aruoriwo Oginni
Pronouns: She/Her
Program/Degree: Master of Social Work
Hometown: Aviara in Delta State, Nigeria

What inspired you to choose your field of study?

From a very young age, I have always been drawn to helping others. Growing up in Nigeria, I witnessed the harsh realities of poverty, social injustices, and the daily struggles of marginalized families. These experiences shaped my worldview. Initially, I pursued a degree in Law, believing that justice was the key to addressing inequality. But over time, I came to understand that real change also requires compassion, empathy, and direct service. Social Work became the path that allowed me to connect my legal background with my lifelong passion for serving others.

What was a moment at Dal that you'll never forget?

One unforgettable moment was during my Aboriginal Perspectives in Service Delivery course, where I learned about Indigenous worldviews and the parallels with African Nova Scotian community structures. It reshaped how I understood cultural humility and collective healing.
Another decisive moment was during the clinical simulation exercises, where I practiced real-life social work scenarios alongside other health professionals. It was a profoundly formative experience that strengthened my confidence and appreciation for interprofessional collaboration.

Who supported you along the way and how?

Dr. Marion Brown was an incredible source of encouragement and support throughout my program, and many other professors at the School of Social Work inspired and guided me throughout my studies. Dr. Marion Brown gave me several learning and job opportunities that were crucial to my integration and survival in Nova Scotia.

My field supervisors at the IWK Children's and Adolescent Intensive Services were also instrumental to my learning. They created a safe, supportive space that encouraged reflection, growth, and confidence. I am also profoundly grateful to my mentor, Joanne Lopez Valero, who has also been so supportive and whose words of wisdom have guided me along my career path. My classmates have also become my community – we shared ideas, challenges, and laughter that made the journey truly meaningful.

Most importantly, my incredible husband, Oluwafemi Oginni, was (and still is) so loving, patient, and understanding. His unwavering belief in me, support, and encouragement through every late night, early morning, and moment of self-doubt sustained me. Our three incredible children were so understanding. They have all been my greatest cheerleaders and a great reminder of why I chose this path.

Is there a course/research topic/placement or project that really impacted you?

I deeply enjoyed my clinical practice course, particularly the simulation component, where I learned to integrate theory with practice while collaborating with professionals from other disciplines. Those sessions taught me how to hold space, listen intentionally, and work effectively within complex systems of care. I completed my clinical placements at IWK Health's Adolescent Intensive Services (AIS) and Children's Intensive Services (CIS), and it was equally transformative. My supervisors were amazing and helped nurture my growth while challenging me to think critically and compassionately. Working with children, youth, and families helped me to see how healing unfolds through connection, trust, and relational safety – lessons that now form the foundation of my practice philosophy. My philosophy is simple – people are not broken; they are burdened. My role is not to "fix" people, but to help unburden and reconnect with purpose.

What does graduating mean to you?

Graduating is far more than earning a degree – it represents resilience, purpose, and a lifelong commitment to serve. It means I can now give back as a social worker candidate, uplifting individuals and communities while promoting justice, dignity, and inclusion. It is a reminder of my roots – from a small town in Delta State, Nigeria, to Nova Scotia – a testimony that dreams can transcend borders.

What is next for you?

I plan to continue practicing as a clinical social worker and community advocate in Nova Scotia, focusing on child, youth, and family support, while integrating Africentric, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive approaches. I plan to incorporate my backgrounds in Law, managerial psychology, and Social Work, and to bridge my experiences in Nigeria and Canada. My long-term goal is to contribute to policy reform that addresses inequality and strengthens culturally grounded mental health and social support systems.