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Collette White Reflects on Her First CFNU Convention Experience
June 19, 2025
For Collette White, attending her first CFNU Biennial Convention was nothing short of transformative. Although she had participated in several provincial conventions in Newfoundland and Labrador, stepping into a national gathering of nurses was an entirely different experience.
“It was empowering just to be in a room filled with nurses from across the country who all face similar struggles,” she said. “The energy—even just getting up in the morning to wave signs—was incredible.”
Collette was particularly moved by the opening session focused on Indigenous equity and reconciliation. The personal stories and calls to action resonated deeply.
“It brought feelings of sadness, shame, and injustice—but also a strong sense that we need to do better,” she said. “You don’t want to be part of the problem. You want to be part of the solution.”
In her rural practice, these conversations hit home. She reflected on the need for cultural inclusion—not just in policy, but in everyday patient care. She also saw parallels between the experiences of internationally educated nurses and Indigenous Peoples, especially in terms of belonging and respect.
Workshops on emotional intelligence and climate change also left a lasting impression.
“Being more self-aware and learning how to regulate yourself—it’s not just helpful at work, it’s something that affects how we relate to our families too,” she said. “We often bring work stress home, and this session really helped me reflect on that.”
As someone working in rural Newfoundland, Collette also highlighted the importance of mentorship and support for new nurses.
“We need to invest in mentorship. If new grads had a seasoned nurse to work with for a year or two, they’d be more likely to stay in rural areas. Right now, they’re often handed the keys and told, ‘You’re in charge.’ It’s overwhelming.”
Her candid account also touched on the realities of working in small communities, where boundaries between personal and professional life often blur.
“People show up at your door, send messages at night, even approach you at funerals. It never stops,” she said. “You isolate yourself to cope.”
Despite those challenges, Collette remains hopeful. She sees CFNU’s work on recruitment, retention, and violence in the workplace as crucial, especially the impassioned calls to action from union leaders like Janet Hazelton.
“That moment really struck me—when she said nurses shouldn’t have to decide whether to press charges after being assaulted at work. That should be the justice system’s job.”
Collette volunteered as a marshal during the Elbows Up rally and says she’s excited to share her experience back home with her branch.
“I’m just so thankful for the opportunity,” she said. “It’s an experience I’ll never forget.”