Nigerian-Born Bolu Ogunyemi Elected First Black President of Canadian Medical Association in 158 Years

Bolu Ogunyemi, a Nigerian-born dermatologist and clinical associate professor of medicine at Memorial University of Newfoundland, has made history as the first Black president-elect of the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) in its 158-year existence.

Ogunyemi achieved this milestone by winning a tightly contested election against Susan MacDonald. He will serve as president-elect until May 2025, at which point he will officially take on the role of CMA president for a one-year term, subject to approval by the association’s general council.

A practicing dermatologist based in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, Ogunyemi is widely recognized for his commitment to healthcare equity and social accountability.

From 2020 to 2023, he held the position of inaugural assistant dean of social accountability at Memorial University, where he spearheaded initiatives to promote equitable healthcare policies. Additionally, he serves on the Labrador Medical Association Board of Directors, further highlighting his dedication to healthcare advocacy.

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Ogunyemi’s academic and professional accomplishments extend beyond clinical practice. In 2024, he completed a fellowship in health services improvement at the University of Alberta’s School of Public Health.

This advanced training underscores his role as a thought leader in healthcare reform and innovation, positioning him to drive meaningful change within the Canadian healthcare system during his term as CMA president.


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