A 64-year-old Nigerian, John Adesoye, has achieved a remarkable milestone after graduating as a registered nurse in the United Kingdom, proving that age is no barrier to pursuing education, changing careers and fulfilling lifelong dreams.
Adesoye, a father of five, recently completed a registered nurse degree apprenticeship at the University of the West of England (UWE), Bristol, while working at Southmead Hospital, where he has served for more than a decade.
His inspiring journey from electronics technician to qualified healthcare professional has drawn widespread admiration, with many describing his story as a testament to resilience, determination and the power of lifelong learning.
Journey from Nigeria to the United Kingdom
Adesoye’s path to becoming a registered nurse was far from conventional.
He grew up in Nigeria before relocating to Greece, where he worked as an electronics technician for several years.
After spending time in Europe, he moved to the United Kingdom in 2013 in search of better opportunities and a new beginning for himself and his family.
Although his professional background was in electronics, Adesoye soon developed a passion for healthcare after settling in Britain.
Rather than remaining in his previous field, he decided to pursue a completely different career—one focused on caring for people and improving lives.
His decision marked the beginning of a journey that would eventually transform his professional life.
Starting as a healthcare assistant
In 2014, Adesoye secured a position as a healthcare assistant at Southmead Hospital in Bristol.
Working closely with nurses, doctors and other healthcare professionals gave him first-hand experience of patient care and inspired him to aim even higher.
The role enabled him to build valuable clinical experience while learning the responsibilities and demands of the nursing profession.
Over the years, his commitment, compassion and willingness to learn convinced him that becoming a registered nurse was an achievable goal.
Despite being in his late fifties when he began pursuing the ambition, he remained determined to make it a reality.
Balancing studies, work and family
To realise his dream, Adesoye enrolled in a registered nurse degree apprenticeship at the University of the West of England.
The programme combined classroom learning with practical hospital experience, allowing him to continue working while studying for his professional qualification.
Balancing university lectures, assignments and clinical placements alongside hospital shifts required discipline, sacrifice and careful time management.
At the same time, he remained committed to his responsibilities as a husband and father of five.
During his training, Adesoye gained experience in several specialist departments, including cardiology, accident and emergency, and intensive care.
These placements equipped him with the clinical knowledge, practical skills and confidence required to qualify as a registered nurse.
His ability to successfully combine education, work and family life has been described as one of the most inspiring aspects of his journey.
Dream becomes reality
After years of dedication and perseverance, Adesoye successfully completed the programme and officially qualified as a registered nurse.
His achievement was further rewarded with a permanent nursing position at Southmead Hospital, where he had already spent years caring for patients as a healthcare assistant.
The appointment marks the beginning of a new chapter in his career, allowing him to continue serving patients in an expanded professional capacity.
His success also highlights the opportunities created by apprenticeship programmes, which provide individuals with the chance to earn professional qualifications while remaining in employment.
Healthcare leaders have increasingly encouraged such pathways to address workforce shortages while helping workers develop their careers.
“It’s never too late”
Reflecting on his remarkable achievement, Adesoye said his decision to pursue nursing was driven by a genuine passion for helping people.
He encouraged anyone with a dream to remain focused regardless of their age or circumstances.
According to him, determination and hard work can overcome many obstacles.
“It’s never too late,” he said, urging others not to abandon their ambitions because of the stage they have reached in life.
Adesoye also disclosed that qualifying as a registered nurse is not the end of his educational journey.
He expressed a desire to pursue a master’s degree in the future if given the opportunity, saying he remains committed to continuous learning and professional development.
An inspiration to many
Adesoye’s story has resonated with many Nigerians both at home and in the diaspora, particularly those considering returning to school or changing careers later in life.
His journey demonstrates that success is not limited by age and that persistence, resilience and self-belief can open doors to new opportunities.
For aspiring professionals, mature students and career changers, his achievement serves as a powerful reminder that it is never too late to acquire new skills, pursue higher education or fulfil long-held dreams.
As he begins his career as a registered nurse in the United Kingdom, Adesoye’s story stands as an inspiring example of courage, determination and the enduring value of lifelong learning.