From Lagos to Oklahoma: Bola Alabi’s Inspiring Journey to a U.S. Healthcare Career

Bola Alabi’s story is proof that with determination, the right support, and a little faith, dreams do come true. Today, she is a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) thriving in the United States, but just a short while ago, she was a young woman in Lagos, Nigeria, holding on to a big dream.

A Dream That She Wouldn’t Let Go

Bola grew up in Lagos with a heart full of compassion. Caring for her elderly relatives came naturally to her and sparked a strong interest in nursing. But like many young Africans, she didn’t have access to formal training or the means to pursue a career in healthcare.

After finishing high school, she worked as a shop assistant to help her family. Still, her dream of working in healthcare never faded.

In 2023, she heard about AfroHealth’s U.S. healthcare training program, a unique opportunity for Africans to receive certified training and job placement support abroad. With courage and hope, Bola signed up for AfroHealth’s Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) foundation course. That one decision changed everything.

Training with AfroHealth

Bola joined the 3-month virtual training program, a little nervous at first, especially since English was her second language. But the course was designed to be clear, practical, and accessible for learners from all backgrounds. With live interactive classes and hands-on skill practice, Bola quickly found her footing.

“The learning model made it easy to balance training with my daily responsibilities”, she says.

She learned essential CNA skills like:

• Measuring vital signs
  
  

• Safely transferring patients
  
  

• Infection control techniques
  
  

With help from AfroHealth tutors and a structured curriculum, Bola built the confidence she needed. After completing the program, she took her CNA certification exam and passed on the first try, joining the 95% of AfroHealth students who succeed.

From Certification to the U.S.

Getting certified was just the beginning. AfroHealth supported Bola with every step of the immigration and visa process, guiding her through complex paperwork and experienced immigration experts who handled her visa sponsorship and documentation.

Soon after her visa was approved, AfroHealth arranged job interviews with U.S. healthcare employers. Thanks to the growing demand for CNAs in long-term care facilities, several nursing homes expressed interest. Bola accepted an offer from a care facility in Oklahoma City, a place ready to welcome a dedicated international caregiver.

A New Life in Oklahoma City

In January 2024, Bola stepped off the plane into a world that felt both exciting and unfamiliar, her first time in the United States of America, greeted by cold winter air and warm smiles.

Her employer helped her settle into an apartment she shared with another Nigerian nurse, who quickly became a close friend. Adjusting to life in the U.S. was challenging at first; new systems, new routines, new culture, but Bola embraced it all.

At work, she mastered advanced tools like electronic health record systems and lifting devices. Her patients adored her gentle spirit and bright smile. During the International Food Day of 2024, she introduced her colleagues to Nigerian dishes, making everyone feel a little more connected.

Thriving as a CNA

Now, several months into her role, Bola is thriving. She confidently cares for 10 residents during her shift, forming strong bonds with both patients and their families.

“I love my job”, Bola says. “Every day, I get to comfort people and ensure they’re safe and cared for. It makes me happy.”

Her income now supports her life in the U.S. and helps pay for her younger siblings’ education back home, a dream come true for her and her family.

Looking Ahead with Big Plans

Bola is not stopping here. While working full-time, she has enrolled in evening classes at a community college to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). AfroHealth continues to support her with career mentorship, something that makes the program truly special.

“AfroHealth opened a door I thought was closed”, she says.
“They didn’t just train me; they walked with me from Nigeria to the U.S.”

Inspiring a New Generation

Today, Bola regularly speaks with friends and family back home, encouraging them to pursue careers in healthcare through AfroHealth. She shares her journey to inspire others, reminding them that if she could do it, they can too.

“Study hard, believe in yourself, and take that leap”, she advises.
“The reward is more than a paycheck, it’s a purpose.”

Bola’s journey from Lagos to Oklahoma is more than a personal success story. It reflects AfroHealth’s mission: to train, support, and empower Africa’s future healthcare leaders, one life, one job, one community at a time.

Start Your Own Journey

Are you inspired by Bola’s story? You could be next. Join AfroHealth’s upcoming training batch and take the first step toward a meaningful career abroad.

Take the leap today and join our next cohort here!