Anie Udofia (he/him)
Senior Digital Product Designer
Medavie

Anie Udofia sized

What are your family’s roots and how do you honour your heritage?

I am of Nigerian descent. I grew up in the small city of Uyo in the south-south region of the country. A decade ago, a portion of my family, including me, moved to the United Kingdom. We became a part of the Black communities there and also part of Nigerian communities as well. Despite being away from Nigeria for an extended period, I have always felt a strong connection to my heritage and culture.

My parents have always been my most authentic link to my heritage and Black culture. In Canada, I have been fortunate to find a diverse and inclusive Black community that has made me feel at home. As a Black designer, I believe it is my responsibility to design inclusive and equitable products that consider the needs of minority populations like my own.

I honour my heritage by giving back to my communities through volunteering, patronizing Black-owned businesses and through my work advocating for inclusive and equitable designs in health care. Also, the Nigerian and Caribbean food in Canada is banging.

What are the most significant contributions Black Canadians have made to Canada?

In my opinion, one of the most significant contributions that the Black community has made to Canada is their tireless efforts in fighting for equality and equity. The Black community has been at the forefront of advocating for the rights of marginalized groups and has brought attention to the issues of exclusion and inequality faced by many minority populations across Canada.

How do you think your life differs from those of your parents and grandparents?

My life differs significantly from that of my parents and grandparents in terms of opportunities, freedom, and access. One of the main ways in which this is true is in terms of international education and travel. Government restrictions, financial constraints, and biased immigration policies made it much more difficult for my parents and grandparents to pursue these opportunities.

However, I have had the privilege of studying in four different countries, including Canada, something that was almost impossible for them during their time. My experiences and opportunities have been shaped by the progress and changes that have occurred in both countries (Canada and the United Kingdom) over time, and I have benefited from the greater access and freedom to opportunities that have become available to the Black community in Canada.

How important is Black representation in the workplace?

Black representation in the workplace is crucial for creating a more inclusive and equitable workplace. Seeing Black individuals in leadership helps break down stereotypes and biases and is a powerful symbol of inclusion and equality. It helps to create a sense of belonging and validation for Black employees, inspires more people to pursue similar career paths, and attracts more talents.

Black representation can create a better workplace and more inclusive products and services. Representation is important not just for us as employees but also the population we serve.

How can co-workers be better allies to their Black colleagues?

Being an ally to Black colleagues means recognizing one's privilege and using it to speak up in support in the workplace. Silence is complicit and allies need to be willing to challenge harmful stereotypes, call out microaggressions, and advocate for policies that promote equity and inclusion. Additionally, allies should also listen and learn about the experiences and perspectives of their Black colleagues, amplify their voices, support Black-led initiatives, and educate themselves and others about the history and current state of racism, discrimination and social injustice in the workplace and society.

How can Canada become a more inclusive country?

I believe that Canada's diversity is a reflection of its greatest strength—"the Canadian will" to be inclusive, to create more opportunities for Black community, and the willingness of Canadians to strive for progress. However, it's important to recognize that diversity does not automatically equate to inclusivity. To truly become a more inclusive country, Canada must acknowledge the systemic barriers and inequalities that Black individuals face and actively work to dismantle them.


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Medavie is a health company that oversees Medavie Blue Cross and Medavie Health Services. Together, we’re bringing Canadians better health and access to care.