Olive Obusi earned a Bachelor of Science in Insurance and Risk Management and built experience in office administration before moving to Calgary from Nigeria in 2024. Since arriving in her new city, she has brought with her a strong community spirit, a love of learning, and a genuine desire to make a difference. Outside of volunteering, Olive enjoys reading, walking, dancing, and cooking, all of which reflect her warm and curious nature.
Open to new opportunities and eager to grow both personally and professionally, Olive was excited when another non-profit staff member introduced her to the opportunity to volunteer with CIWA. It quickly became clear that she was a wonderful fit. Staff have been deeply appreciative of her tremendous support, as she is often one of the first to step forward for both internal and external special events.
Olive has generously supported a wide range of CIWA initiatives, including Family Cricket Day, CIWA’s information table at Filipino Fest, the concession stand at Rogers Charity Classic, Employment Program support, Run Calgary events, CIWA casino days, and casino days for other agencies. In addition to her involvement in special events, she also provides regular Reception Support, offering a welcoming presence to staff and clients alike.
What stands out most about Olive is not only her willingness to help, but the way she carries herself in every role she takes on. She shows up with openness, dignity, and respect, always ready to learn and contribute wherever needed. For staff and clients alike, she has become a true treasure and a delight to work with.
For Olive, volunteering is deeply meaningful. She shared, “I enjoy helping and supporting women who may be vulnerable or new to the community. It feels meaningful to share information, and make a positive difference in their lives. I also enjoy working with diverse people and learning more about different cultures and experiences.”
She also reflected on the personal growth that volunteering has brought into her life.
Volunteering has helped me grow personally and professionally. It has improved my communication and teamwork skills, increased my understanding of different cultures and challenges women face, and strengthened my empathy and confidence. It has also helped me feel more connected to the community and gave me meaningful experience working with people in need.
Olive Obusi
CIWA staff speak highly of Olive’s impact and the care she brings to her work. They shared, “Olive’s volunteer experience at CIWA has been impactful, as she has learned quickly and made meaningful contributions by actively supporting clients and providing timely, respectful assistance and great strategy at the front desk.”
They further describe her as dedicated, responsible, adaptable, and always willing to support both clients and staff wherever needed. Olive is recognized for her outstanding customer service skills, punctuality, hard work, positivity, and strong organization. Her reliability and proactive approach have strengthened team operations and enhanced the quality of support provided to clients.
Olive’s journey at CIWA is a beautiful example of how one person’s willingness to serve can create a meaningful impact in the lives of others. Through her compassion, energy, and commitment, she has become an important part of the CIWA community, and her support continues to make a difference every day.
Want to learn more about how you can make an impact? Click here to see volunteer opportunities at CIWA.