ACADEMIC CHAPTER LEADERS
Meet Our Academic Chapter Presidents
Student leaders. Change makers. Future nurse leaders. Together, they strengthen connections between students, faculty, healthcare organizations, and the broader nursing profession while advancing CBNA's mission.
Hello, My name is Bliss Anyacho, a 4th year Nursing student at the university of regina. I am deeply honored to serve as the president of CBNA- university of regina chapter for the 2026-2027 academic chapter. Being a leader has been an important part of who I am. During my elementary school years, I proudly served as an Assembly Prefect, where I learned the importance of discipline, responsibility, and leading by example. In high school, I had the honour of becoming the first-ever female Regulatory Prefect in my school’s history. Breaking that barrier taught me the value of courage, accountability, and perseverance, and inspired me to lead with confidence while encouraging others to believe in their own potential. These early experiences laid the foundation for my commitment to serving others and continue to influence my leadership style today.
My involvement with CBNA has been one of the most meaningful parts of my university experience. During the 2025–2026 academic year, I had the privilege of serving as the Director of Public Relations and Communications. In this role, I helped promote and organize chapter events and social media platforms.Working alongside an incredible executive team allowed me to witness the power of community, representation, and further strengthened my commitment to the organization’s mission of supporting and uplifting Black nursing students.
As President, my vision is to build upon that foundation by creating a chapter where every member feels welcomed, valued, and empowered to succeed. I hope to strengthen mentorship opportunities, organize professional development and networking events, promote academic excellence and student wellness, and celebrate Black culture and achievement within our university community. I also want to encourage students to step into leadership, develop their confidence, and recognize that their voices and contributions matter. By fostering collaboration and meaningful connections, I believe we can continue building a chapter that inspires excellence and creates lasting opportunities for future generations of Black nursing students.
I am committed to leading with humility, integrity, and purpose while creating an environment where everyone feels supported, heard, and inspired to grow. I look forward to working together to strengthen our chapter, celebrate our achievements, and make a lasting impact both within the University of Regina and beyond.
Dorcas is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Trent University, where her academic and extracurricular involvement reflects a strong commitment to health equity, advocacy, and mentorship. With a deep-rooted passion for supporting underserved communities, Dorcas serves as the President of the Canadian Black Nurses Alliance – Trent University Chapter (CBNA-Trent). In this role, she champions initiatives that promote inclusion, cultural safety, and representation in healthcare spaces.
As a student peer mentor, Dorcas exemplifies leadership by actively guiding and supporting fellow nursing students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. Her dedication to creating a safe and empowering environment for Black nursing students stems from both her academic knowledge and lived experiences. Through peer support, advocacy, and community-building, she works to ensure that her peers not only survive but thrive in their academic and clinical journeys.
Dorcas is especially passionate about health policy reform and cultural competency within nursing education. She believes that a more equitable healthcare system begins with culturally informed learning environments and leadership that reflects the diversity of the populations it serves. Her goal is to bridge the gap between academic institutions and the communities they impact, creating pathways for Black (nursing) students to be leaders and change-makers in healthcare.
“As the President of CBNA-Trent Chapter, I am excited to bring my passion for health equity to the forefront. My journey in nursing has shaped my commitment to advocating for policies that enhance healthcare delivery and experiences.”
In all she does, Dorcas remains steadfast in her mission to uplift others, promote justice, and contribute meaningfully to the nursing profession. She continues to inspire those around her by cultivating space for advocacy, compassion, and purposeful action.
Emmanuella Adeboye is a second-year nursing student at Toronto Metropolitan University and the inaugural President of CBNA-TMU. In this leadership role, she is dedicated to uplifting Black nursing students by fostering a welcoming and empowering community where they can thrive academically, professionally, and personally. Through mentorship, collaboration, and advocacy, she is committed to creating a space where students feel supported, build meaningful relationships, and gain access to opportunities that promote their success.
Emmanuella earned her bachelor’s degree in Medical Biochemistry from the University of Benin, Nigeria. She is deeply passionate about advancing women’s health and promoting equitable, patient-centered care. This passion is reflected in her work as a Patient Care Assistant at North York General Hospital, where she provides compassionate care while advocating for the dignity, well-being, and diverse needs of every patient.
With a strong foundation in biomedical sciences and valuable frontline healthcare experience, Emmanuella’s commitment to nursing is driven by her belief in advocacy, representation, and patient empowerment. Recognising the need for greater support and equitable access within healthcare, she hopes to contribute to meaningful change by championing the needs of women, patients, and healthcare professionals.
As President of CBNA-TMU, Emmanuella is focused on strengthening the organisation’s impact within the School of Nursing. She is passionate about connecting Black nursing students to a vibrant community where they feel represented, respected, and empowered — while cultivating a lasting sense of belonging both on campus and throughout their professional journeys.
Esther Abire is a nursing student at McMaster University and the 2026/2027 President of the Canadian Black Nurses Alliance McMaster Chapter. She is committed to fostering inclusive healthcare environments and empowering future nurses through leadership and advocacy. She is interested in pediatric and community health research, particularly in areas that promote equitable access to care and improved health outcomes for diverse communities.
Arianna est étudiante en deuxième année du programme accéléré de baccalauréat ès sciences infirmières de l’Université de Toronto. Elle occupe actuellement le poste de présidente de la section de l’Association canadienne des infirmières et infirmiers noirs de l’Université de Toronto (CBNA-UofT). Dans le cadre de ses fonctions, elle s’engage à renforcer les liens entre les étudiantes et étudiants noirs en sciences infirmières en créant des espaces où ils peuvent échanger, partager leurs expériences et se soutenir mutuellement tout au long de leur parcours universitaire et professionnel. Par l’organisation d’événements, la mise en œuvre de programmes et des initiatives de défense des intérêts, elle souhaite accroître la présence de la CBNA-UofT au sein de la Faculté des sciences infirmières, tout en facilitant l’accès des étudiants à des occasions de mentorat, de développement professionnel et personnel, ainsi qu’à un véritable sentiment d’appartenance à la communauté.
Avant d’entreprendre ses études en sciences infirmières, Arianna a obtenu un diplôme de premier cycle en biologie. Sa passion pour les sciences, conjuguée à son désir d’accompagner les personnes lorsque leur état de santé devient incertain, l’a finalement conduite à choisir la profession infirmière. En tant que présidente de la CBNA-UofT, Arianna souhaite continuer à défendre les intérêts des étudiantes et étudiants noirs en sciences infirmières, tout en favorisant un environnement dans lequel ils se sentent représentés, valorisés et encouragés à réaliser leur plein potentiel.
Goodness Anifowose is the 2025–2026 President of the Canadian Black Nurses Alliance – Cape Breton University Chapter (CBNA–CBU). A dedicated nursing student and emerging leader, Goodness is passionate about community engagement, representation, and the professional development of Black nursing students in Atlantic Canada.
In her role as President, Goodness leads with a vision centered on connection, empowerment, and inclusion. She is committed to building a vibrant CBNA–CBU community where Black nursing students feel seen, supported, and equipped to excel academically and professionally. Through collaborative programming and strategic partnerships, she is fostering a chapter that serves as both a safe space and a launchpad for leadership within the broader nursing landscape.
Goodness’s leadership philosophy is grounded in the belief that representation is not only powerful but necessary in transforming the future of healthcare. She advocates for equitable access to mentorship, culturally responsive education, and opportunities that enable Black nursing students to thrive in their studies and careers.
Beyond her academic and leadership pursuits, Goodness is deeply involved in volunteerism and peer mentorship, reflecting her commitment to service and community-building. She aspires to contribute to a healthcare system that values diversity, compassion, and holistic care — principles she continues to model through her academic journey and leadership with CBNA–CBU.
As she leads the chapter into a new year, Goodness remains dedicated to advancing the CBNA’s national mission of equity, excellence, and belonging in nursing. Her work at Cape Breton University stands as a testament to the power of young Black leaders who are shaping the future of the nursing profession across Canada.
Joel Agyei is the proud President of the CBNA-York University (CBNA-YorkU) chapter and a passionate advocate for representation, empowerment, and equity in nursing. Currently entering his third year in the Direct Entry Nursing Program at York University, Joel has always had a clear drive to uplift, empower, and advocate for those around him, which drew him to this role.
Growing up, Joel rarely saw black role models in the spaces he aspired to be in, particularly in healthcare and policy, where there was a severe lack of Black healthcare professionals who could serve as both guidance and proof that success in the field as a Black male was possible. This served as his motivation to pursue a role where he could help empower other aspiring black healthcare professionals while also advocating for change in the healthcare system and its lack of representation.
Beyond the classroom and his role, Joel enjoys challenging himself through sport, as shown in his commitment to the York University Track and Field club. Additionally, he regularly volunteers at his local food bank and is always looking for new opportunities to surround himself with like-minded people with a drive to help others.
As president, Joel is committed to ensuring that every black nursing student at York University feels empowered to reach their full potential and confident in their ability to lead, heal, and thrive in society. Additionally, Joel is committed to advocating for students who may feel like they don’t have a voice, and being the change that his younger self would have wanted to see in the healthcare field.
Kimberley Saira is a third-year Bachelor of Nursing Science student at Queen’s University and the incoming Co-President of the Canadian Black Nurses Association (CBNA) Queen’s Chapter for the 2026–2027 academic year. Her passion for nursing is anchored in a desire to radically and intentionally serve others while cultivating a community built on equity and belonging.
Studying and working in a region where Black healthcare professionals are historically underrepresented—Kimberley’s dedication to CBNA is deeply personal. She understands the impact a lack of visible representation can have on a community and being motivated by this reality, she is committed to bridging the gap and working towards changing this disparity. For Kimberley, representation is a critical intervention that empowers the next generation of nurses and strengthens clinical outcomes.
Her frontline experiences, including clinical placements in oncology and transition care, have underscored the importance of patient advocacy, access to care and the need for robust support systems for individuals and families navigating complex healthcare structures. Her dedication to family-centered care was further deepened through her work at Camp Fire Circle, where she served families with children navigating cancer and chronic illnesses. This experience ignited a strong interest in bridging gaps in pediatric healthcare, fueling her belief in creating safe, nurturing environments where both patients and healthcare providers can grow and thrive.
A proven community builder, Kimberley brings valuable leadership experience from her roles with the Queen’s Black Premedical Association, her two years as an active CBNA Queen’s member, and her work as an orientation leader for incoming nursing students. As CBNA Co-President, she is focused on creating spaces where Black nursing students feel seen, supported, and empowered to break barriers. Her vision for the chapter includes helping to connect students with mentors to equip them for practice, organizing meaningful professional development events, and promoting academic wellness. To broaden this impact, Kimberley is also committed to working towards cultivating an inclusive digital community and partnering with other educational institutions to expand this vital network of support.
Looking ahead, Kimberley aims to continue developing her interests in public health, systemic health equity, clinical research and pediatric health. She also hopes to strengthen partnerships with other schools and organizations to expand CBNA Queen’s impact beyond campus.
Lisa Tiop is a second-year nursing student in the University of Calgary’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. Her extracurricular work reflects a deep commitment to equity, community building, and creative leadership. As one of the Co-Presidents of the Canadian Black Nurses Alliance – University of Calgary (CBNA – UofC), Lisa has played a pivotal role in establishing the chapter as a Student Union (SU) registered club, and helped shape its long-term mission and vision.
Lisa’s leadership across academic, research, and community-based initiatives equips her to support both the development of the club and the growth of its members. As Co-President, she is committed to building CBNA – UofC into a space that empowers Black nursing students to thrive — academically, professionally, and personally.
As a first-generation immigrant, Lisa has navigated academic spaces without mentorship or a clear path forward. These experiences have helped shape her belief in the power of inclusive, supportive communities — and her passion for creating spaces where mentorship, representation, and mutual uplift are the norm. She believes that when students feel seen and supported, they’re better positioned to succeed and grow.
Outside of CBNA, Lisa works as a summer student researcher, investigating the effects of prenatal cannabis exposure on infant neurodevelopment. In this role, she collaborates with clinicians, graduate students, and scientists to explore critical questions in maternal-child health. She’s also actively involved with Golden Mti, a nonprofit focused on educational equity, and privately tutors students from low-income and marginalized backgrounds — a passion fueled by her desire to support youth who lack access to academic resources. Additionally, Lisa has volunteered with the Football and Hockey League (FHL), a program dedicated to increasing access to sports for kids in low-income families.
Ultimately, Lisa is honoured to step into this leadership role and help grow a community she deeply believes in. As someone who has carved her path without a blueprint, she’s passionate about building a foundation others can lean on. With a focus on creativity, warmth, and purpose, she hopes to help shape CBNA – UofC into a space where Black nursing students feel celebrated, supported, and seen — both now and for years to come.
Matthew Young is a fourth-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing student at the University of Windsor.
With a strong passion for community involvement, his extracurricular pursuits reflect his dedication,
resilience, and commitment to fostering an engaged and inclusive society. As Co-President of the
UWindsor CBNA Chapter, Matthew played an instrumental role in establishing the chapter from the
grassroots level. By supporting, connecting, and empowering fellow nursing students, his goal has been to
create a space within the UWindsor CBNA Chapter where Black nursing students can engage, grow, and
uplift one another. His leadership and involvement extend beyond the chapter, spanning the Windsor
Essex Region to provincial levels through meaningful engagement in both academic and community
initiatives.
Beyond his work with the UWindsor CBNA Chapter, Matthew serves as a Peer Mentor in the Faculty of
Nursing’s Clinical Learning Centre Simulation Lab, guiding nursing students in integrating collaboration
and critical thinking to foster professional and personal development. He is also the Membership Officer
for the Nursing Students of Ontario (NSO), collaborating with nursing students and healthcare
professionals across the province to promote continuous growth, advocacy, and advancement within the
nursing profession. Additionally, Matthew represents students in both the Windsor-Essex RegisteredNurses’ Association of Ontario (RNAO) Chapter and the Faculty of Nursing’s Nursing Society, bridging
the voices of nursing students with professional organizations to enhance engagement, representation, and
leadership development within the nursing community.
Driven by a commitment to his community, Matthew strives to create environments where collaboration,
mentorship, and empowerment thrive through exposure to learning opportunities. Whether through
advocacy, collaboration, or student engagement, he aims to leave a lasting impact on those around him.
When not actively participating in these initiatives, Matthew enjoys winding down by going for
long-distance runs while listening to classical music, working out, or taking night drives.
Oluwatamilore (Tami) Adedokun is a second-year nursing student in the University of Calgary’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. Tami is the founder and a Co-President of the Canadian Black Nurses Alliance – University of Calgary (CBNA – UofC), a chapter that his executive team launched earlier this year. He has played an integral role in establishing the organization as a Student Union (SU) registered club. As Co-President, Tami aims to build this chapter into an inclusive space that fosters academic and professional excellence and strengthens the relationships and networks of Black nursing students on campus.
In addition to his work with CBNA – UofC, Tami is involved in leadership, research, and volunteering. He is the Vice President of Events for the Children’s Care Collective (CCC), a student-led nonprofit organization dedicated to raising money and materials to support the Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation. He is also the Vice President of Academics for the Nigerian Students’ Association, where he supports professionally focused events and collaboration with other student groups. Tami also works as a summer student researcher at the McCaig Institute for Bone and Joint Health and volunteers at the Arthur J.E. Child Comprehensive Cancer Centre and his local church.
Tami is excited to step into this leadership role and is committed to ensuring CBNA – UofC is a welcoming place where Black nursing students feel supported, connected, and empowered to thrive.
Tess Ogunjinmi is a fourth-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing student at the University of Windsor who believes some of the best opportunities begin with simply saying yes. Whether she’s organizing events, mentoring students, conducting research, or speaking on behalf of nursing, she’s always looking for ways to build meaningful connections and leave things a little better than she found them.
As Co-President of the Canadian Black Nurses Alliance, University of Windsor Chapter (CBNA UWindsor), Tess helped lead the chapter through its ratification and has since worked to grow it into a welcoming community for Black nursing students and their allies. Her goal is simple: create a space where students feel supported, and excited to grow together.
As an Outstanding Scholar, Tess conducts research alongside faculty at the University of Windsor. Her current project examines arts-based approaches to intimate partner violence (IPV) help-seeking, combining her interest in healthcare with storytelling and creative expression. She is also a Fellow at the Care Lab, where she collaborates on interdisciplinary projects centered on care, and social change.
Tess also serves as a Peer Mentor in the Faculty of Nursing’s Clinical Learning Centre, helping students build confidence in their clinical skills. She is the Vice President of the Mentorship Team for University of Windsor Welcomes Nursing Students (UWNS), where she enjoys connecting with incoming students and helping them find their footing in nursing school.
Within the Faculty of Nursing, Tess serves on both the LEAD Medallion Committee, helping shape the faculty’s first-ever LEAD program, and the Recruitment and Publicity Committee, where she contributes to student engagement initiatives.
Outside of nursing, Tess is the Research Liaison for the University of Windsor Book Club and is always happy to recommend a good read. When she’s not in scrubs or buried in research, you’ll probably find her shopping, spending time with family and friends, curled up with her Kindle, or catching up on the latest season of The Real Housewives.
Ewuradjoa is currently completing her third year of the Honors Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the University of Alberta. She is passionate about nursing, leadership, and creating meaningful opportunities for students to connect, grow, and feel supported throughout their academic and professional journeys.
As a member of CBNA-UAB, Ewuradjoa is committed to fostering a welcoming and inclusive community for Black nursing students. She believes that representation, mentorship, and shared experiences play an important role in helping students navigate nursing school with confidence and build strong professional networks.
Ewuradjoa is particularly passionate about creating engaging initiatives that bring students together while encouraging academic, personal, and professional development. She hopes to contribute to a community where students can learn from one another, celebrate their achievements, and access the support and resources they need to succeed.
Looking ahead, Ewuradjoa is excited to continue developing her leadership skills and contributing to initiatives that promote connection, representation, and excellence within nursing. Through her involvement with CBNA-UAB, she hopes to help create lasting opportunities for students and strengthen the sense of community among Black nursing students at the University of Alberta.
She is grateful for the opportunity to be part of CBNA-UAB and looks forward to the experiences, connections, and accomplishments that lie ahead.
Alya Amusat is currently in her fourth year of the University of Alberta Bachelor of Science in Nursing Honors program. She serves as Co-President of the Canadian Black Nurses Alliance - University of Alberta (CBNA-UAB) and is passionate about fostering a welcoming and supportive community where Black nursing students feel seen, connected, and empowered.
Alya strongly believes in the importance of mentorship and shared experiences in helping Black nursing students navigate their education and prepare for their professional careers. She hopes to create opportunities that support students’ academic, professional, and leadership development while strengthening connections across nursing cohorts.
Alya’s vision is to expand CBNA-UAB’s impact through community service, advocacy, and collaboration. She is particularly passionate about supporting students through welcoming initiatives, creating accessible opportunities for members to get involved, and building partnerships with other student organizations and the broader community.
Alya also hopes to strengthen relationships with the Faculty of Nursing and contribute to conversations surrounding representation, health equity, and anti-racism in nursing education.
Beyond CBNA, Alya is involved in research, plays soccer, and enjoys trying new things. She is honoured to serve as Co-President and looks forward to working alongside the executive team and members to build a stronger, more connected, and empowered Black nursing community!
