2017 BSN alumnus Erika Wiklund practiced in a variety of nursing roles before finding her bliss as co-owner and operator of Organic Glow Medical Aesthetics.
Our skin’s health is more than skin deep. As Erika Wiklund, 2017 Bachelor of Science in Nursing alumnus, explains, “So much is connected to our skin’s health. It is a reflection of our general wellbeing, both physically and mentally, and plays a major role in confidence and feeling like our best selves.”
Pairing skin care with sound science is Erika’s passion. So much so that in 2019 she transitioned from her nursing position with Interior Health Outreach Urban Health to co-owning and operating her own business, Organic Glow Medical Aesthetics.
Her decision to take an entrepreneurial path stemmed from a few factors.
“I am the daughter of entrepreneurs and grew up with, and worked in, my family’s business,” says Erika. “I love the ability to create freely, build an intentional community, and develop a team that makes sense for us.”
“I view each piece of my career as a unique learning experience that shaped me into the nurse I am today.”
Additionally, while Erika had practiced in various roles, including in community nursing, long-term care and acute care, she didn’t feel she had yet found her niche and admits feeling a lot of guilt.
“You start to ask yourself, ‘Am I still a nurse?’” says Erika. “But I think what I learned is that we each need to find the role that reflects the best in ourselves and allows us to flourish. I view each piece of my career as a unique learning experience that shaped me into the nurse I am today.”
It’s no exaggeration to say that Erika glows as she talks about her work at Organic Glow. She relates stories of clients who first come to her in tears over skin issues and end up in tears of gratitude at having these issues resolved.
Erika spent several years working in acute and primary care nursing before launching her business. A registered nurse, she is also a member of the Dermatology Nurses Association and is certified through the Canadian Association of Medical Aesthetics.
“Medical aesthetics can be viewed by some as a frivolous thing,” says Erika, “But there is so much to know about our skin and it’s many processes and the effects of such factors as sleep and diet. With my clients, I am an educator first, listening to their health needs and ensuring they understand their skin. I am also a big proponent of sun safety and helping clients protect themselves against skin damage and cancers.”
As Erika reflects on the changing landscape of nursing, she advises prospective and current students to keep an open mind and not be afraid to step out of stereotypes: “The education you receive is a great foundation that opens doors to many different paths.”
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