Tochukwu Daniel Oguejiofor passionately believes that “diversity fuels innovation.”

That’s why the third-year Medical Sciences student spends nearly every moment of his time outside of the classroom working on policies and initiatives to help make Brock a more inclusive space where “everyone’s voice can shine.”

Whether it’s representing the diverse University community as a Brock Senate Student Leader or working as a Brock Housing Services Don of Activities, Oguejiofor’s dedication to equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) in all areas of campus life contributed to his recent recognition as EDI Changemaker of the Month.

The award is presented by Brock’s Office of Human Rights and Equity (HRE) each month to a student, staff or faculty member that is committed to advancing human rights and equity across campus.

“He is what I would call a super student leader, volunteering across multiple departments, including Brock International as a Student Ambassador and as a member on the President’s Advisory Committee on Human Rights, Equity and Decolonization,” said Alana Lowe, HRE’s Manager of EDI Education and Outreach. “There is so much that he contributes to Brock, including his passion and enthusiasm for community engagement and connection, and his tireless dedication to promoting a culture of respect and cross-cultural understanding.”

Oguejiofor said the recognition is “an honour and a responsibility.”

“I believe that fostering diversity and accessibility opens up a world of opportunities and this recognition encourages me to keep building bridges for others, celebrates the progress we’ve made and motivates me to keep pushing for equity on a bigger level,” he said. “As they say, ‘recognition is fuel for future action,’ and I’m more determined than ever to advocate for inclusion for everyone around me.”

As an international student hailing from Anambra State in Nigeria, Oguejiofor comes from a close-knit family. Like the environment found within a supportive family unit, he said creating a culture of inclusion, respect and understanding on campus ensures people feel acknowledged, appreciated and free to “express their authentic selves.”

“This paves the way for personal growth and innovation,” he said, adding that “world-changing ideas often stem from these interactions.”

A firm believer in the importance of getting involved on campus, Oguejiofor has already completed the Campus Wide Co-Curriculum ahead of schedule, is a member of the Brock University Volunteer Association and has been involved in several other University clubs and committees.

“Being actively engaged in campus life is incredibly important to me because I genuinely love connecting with students, and there’s no better way to learn and engage in meaningful conversations than by talking to people,” he said. “Every interaction enriches my understanding and strengthens our community.”

A personal milestone for Oguejiofor was when he was able to participate in last year’s Building Better Research event during Black History Month as a speaker panellist.

“This allowed me to highlight the significance of embedding EDI in research — a message that resonated deeply with our community and continues to inspire me today,” he said.

EDI Changemaker criteria and nomination information is available on the HRE website.