Seen and heard

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Naomi Ngobila works tirelessly to enhance the Black student experience at Western. Through organizing Black History Month initiatives, facilitating safe spaces and speaking out about important issues, Naomi is a force for change.

“When I arrived on campus in first year, I knew I was a part of a minority group. But I also knew that I deserved to be here. I want fellow Black students to feel as empowered as I do.”

Now a third-year student in the School for Advanced Studies in the Arts & Humanities (SASAH) at Western, Naomi dreams of becoming a lawyer to change the lives of marginalized people.

The power of identity

For Naomi, the importance of Black identity began at home. Her parents were born in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. They wanted to nurture tight familial bonds and a strong sense of culture while providing their family with a quality education.  

Canada offered enhanced opportunities for newcomers and the ability to continue speaking French. The family immigrated to Montréal, Québec and later moved to Hamilton, Ontario.  

“My parents ensured my two siblings and myself were equal to our peers and preserved the importance of our African heritage. They sacrificed a lot and I want to make them proud.”

“I want fellow Black students to feel empowered.”

In high school, Naomi enjoyed meaningful discussions about global and social justice issues but struggled with public speaking. She became inspired by the concept of criminal justice reform in Grade 11 and wanted to learn more.

“I researched universities and discovered SASAH at Western. The ability to earn a dual bachelor’s degree seemed like the best option, and I loved the opportunity to take smaller classes through the program.” Naomi enrolled in criminology and political science.

Joining in and speaking up

In Naomi’s second year she earned an executive position with the African Students’ Association (ASA).

“I stepped outside of my comfort zone and found my community,” she says.

Naomi discovered her voice advocating for the Black student experience. As a reflection officer at the ASA, she facilitated group discussions on challenging topics. Naomi is also a member of Black Future Lawyers and serves on the Social Science Students’ Council.

“I found my confidence at Western.”

Through Western’s Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, Naomi helped plan 2024 Black History Month initiatives where she met former governor general Michaëlle Jean – the first Haitian Canadian and Black person to hold this office. Speaking in French about Black issues with Michaëlle was a powerful moment Naomi will never forget.

Donor generosity ignites hope

Handling finances as a student was an adjustment for Naomi. “The daily struggle to manage bills along with the many demands of being a student is very stressful,” she says.

Naomi received a donor-funded award in her second year at Western, which covered the remainder of the tuition she owed. She was immediately relieved and proud to tell her parents the news.

“I will be attending law school which is very expensive. Donors recognize that students will pay for our educations long after we start our careers. Their giving means so much.”

“I’m so grateful to feel seen by Western donors.”

Naomi is hopeful about the Black student experience beyond her time at Western. “I want to graduate knowing I did everything I could so future Black students understand their value and know that they belong.”

This story is featured in Western's 2024 Annual Impact publication.