Dr. Bolu Ogunyemi becomes Canada's first Black medical association president
Dr. Bolu Ogunyemi becomes Canada's first Black medical association president
Dr. Bolu Ogunyemi becomes Canada's first Black medical association president
Dr. Bolu Ogunyemi has made history as the first Black president of the Canadian Medical Association. The appointment was announced on 29 May 2026, marking a significant moment for the organisation. A physician from Newfoundland and Labrador, he is also among the youngest leaders ever to hold the role. Dr. Ogunyemi brings a unique perspective to his new position. Based in Canada’s easternmost province, he has witnessed first-hand the challenges of an ageing population—a trend now spreading nationwide. His region’s resilience after the cod fishing moratorium has shaped his approach to tackling broader health-care issues.
He is the first president to have graduated from Memorial University’s medical school. His leadership priorities include diversifying the medical workforce to better reflect Canada’s patient demographics. He hopes to encourage professionals from all backgrounds to contribute their skills and experiences to the field. As president, Dr. Ogunyemi will push for solutions to pressing health-care problems across the country. His background in Newfoundland and Labrador, combined with his commitment to inclusivity, sets a distinct direction for the association. The Canadian Medical Association now looks to his leadership to address long-standing and emerging challenges in the sector.