From dietician in Saudi Arabia to a rising safety star in Canada

In a world where safety has become increasingly vital, Safaa Elmi has emerged as a rising star, and she did it having grown up in Saudi Arabia, where Elmi says there wasn’t much of a priority placed on health and safety in the workplace.

Elmi’s journey into safety was sparked by a life-changing experience during her previous career as a dietician in Saudi Arabia. "I remember a specific situation where the workplace was not safe at all due to ongoing construction," shares Elmi. "That made me curious about whether there was a field dedicated to ensuring the safety of workers."

However, her determination to improve workplace safety pushed her down an educational path that would also bring her to Canada. After doing extensive research, Elmi decided to enroll at Western University in London, Ontario. She initially enrolled in a business course, but then transferred to health and safety in her second year.

Challenges and triumphs in the safety field

Elmi’s journey into the world of safety was not without its challenges. "Coming from a different field and stepping into a new environment can be intimidating," she admits. But Elmi’s passion for learning, adaptability, and her ability to quickly grasp new concepts allowed her to thrive in her new role.

As the environmental health and safety coordinator at QM Environmental, Elmi’s responsibilities are diverse and demanding. She works on a construction site in downtown Toronto. Elmi oversees various aspects, including audits, inspections, PPE management, environmental controls, incident investigations, and training. Being on a construction site, “the pace is relentless,” says Elmi, but her dedication and team-oriented approach have earned her the respect of her colleagues and peers.

Recognized as a Young Achiever

Elmi’s commitment to her work and her ability to bridge the gap between safety protocols and the construction industry have not gone unnoticed. Recently, she was honored with the Young Achiever award, acknowledging her significant contributions to the field.

"I was surprised when I first received the email about the award," says Elmi. "I think my dedication to learning and being a team player might have been some of the reasons behind it."

Advice for aspiring safety professionals

For young professionals contemplating a career in health and safety, Elmi offers valuable advice. "Take your time and don't rush yourself into learning everything at once," she suggests. "Experience comes with time, and there's no such thing as a bad learning experience."

Her words of wisdom resonate with those starting in any new field, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and embracing every experience as an opportunity to grow.

The future of safety

As Elmi continues to make strides in her career, she remains dedicated to promoting a culture of safety, particularly in industries where safety protocols are often perceived as obstacles. Her approach, which emphasizes collaboration and support, continues to be invaluable in fostering safer workplaces.

With her passion, expertise, and innovative mindset, Elmi’s influence on her job site and in the broader safety landscape will continue to grow. As she leads by example, her contributions will undoubtedly pave the way for a safer future in the workplace.