Heritage meets health care in Tanzania
By: Emily Totzke (she/her)
From community engagement to cancer research, Bourdeau’s international co-op experience shaped his path toward a career in health care.
When Zeeyaan Bourdeau (he/him) began his Health Sciences degree, he had a goal to complete an international work term that would deepen his connection to his Tanzanian heritage. Four years later, that goal became a reality.
Bourdeau was driven to arrange his own work term at the Aga Khan Hospital because it’s where his grandfather received care during the pandemic. He reached out to the hospital and landed a research assistant position contributing to the Tanzania Comprehensive Cancer Project.
“Although they were different in their own ways, [my co-op work terms] were all very community-centric,” Bourdeau says. “I was lucky to see how each stakeholder plays a role in health care in Ontario, and eventually, in Tanzania.”
Advancing cancer care
At the Aga Khan Hospital, Bourdeau conducted a research project where he interviewed hospital staff and learned about the country’s evolving approach to cancer care. Bourdeau was inspired by the hospital’s commitment to modern technologies and culturally competent care, especially in a region where cancer remains a significant public health challenge.
“The most important thing I learned was how cultural competency shapes healthcare delivery,” Bourdeau explained. “You need to be respectful and mindful of the customs of the communities you’re serving. That’s something I’ll carry with me into my future career.”
Zeeyaan Bourdeau, Health Sciences co-op student, posing in front of the Cancer Care Centre
Rediscovering family roots
Beyond the professional growth, Bourdeau’s time in Tanzania offered a rare opportunity to reconnect with his heritage. His mother, who was born in Tanzania, joined him briefly to help him settle in. During his stay, he visited the kindergarten she attended, explored neighbourhoods where his family once lived and reunited with relatives he hadn’t seen in nearly eight years.
It was more than just a work term. It was a chance to understand my family’s story. I gained a deeper appreciation for my roots and the rich history of Tanzania. That connection made the experience incredibly meaningful.
Navigating the city independently also helped Bourdeau grow personally. “That experience gave me a new sense of independence and confidence,” Bourdeau says.
Skills beyond borders
Across his five work terms, Bourdeau explored a diverse range of roles including community engagement, health care policy, compliance and research. Each experience helped shape his understanding of health care as a multifaceted system.
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United Way Waterloo Region: In his first work term, Bourdeau supported local community projects and collaborated with nonprofit organizations.
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Ontario Medical Association: In his second work term, he contributed to the Knowledge Translation and Implementation team to help physicians stay informed about health care system updates.
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Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario: In his third work term, Bourdeau worked on the compliance team, ensuring that dentists adhered to regulatory orders.
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Aga Khan Hospital, Tanzania: In his fourth work term, he conducted research on a recently completed cancer care initiative.
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York Region Paramedics: In his fifth work term, Bourdeau supported youth-focused programs and further developed his passion for community engagement.
Zeeyaan Bourdeau, Health Sciences co-op student, standing outside of The Aga Khan Hospital
Throughout his co-op journey, Bourdeau developed a wide range of technical, professional and personal skills. In Tanzania, he honed his communication and interpersonal abilities while conducting interviews and managing an independent research project. He also learned the value of hospitality and warmth in professional settings, traits he later applied while working with youth in Canada.
“Every person I met in Tanzania greeted me with a warm smile,” he recalled. “That attitude of kindness and connection is something I want to bring into my future work.”
His experiences across different sectors also taught Bourdeau time management, organization and adaptability, which are skills that will serve him well as he pursues his goal of a career in health care.
Advice for co-op students
For students considering an international work term, Bourdeau offers simple but powerful advice. “Don’t hesitate. Just do it. These opportunities are rare and incredibly special. Be open to trying new things, embrace the culture and learn from the people around you.”
He encourages students to see each co-op term as a chance to grow, not just professionally, but personally.
Try to take one piece of advice or one new skill from every experience. We’re in an era of lifelong learning, and every opportunity helps shape who you are.
What's next
As Bourdeau enters the final stretch of his undergraduate degree, he’s exploring health care career pathways, carrying with him the lessons and stories from each co-op term. His journey from local community organizations to international health care settings serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of co-op education.
“I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to go to Tanzania,” he says. “It was one of the highlights of my co-op journey and of my undergraduate career.”