About the academic chapter CBNA-University of Saskatchewan
CBNA-Univeristy of Saskatchewan is a Black-led student extension of the national Canadian Black Nurses Alliance at the University of Saskatchewan. Our mission is to create a supportive community where Black nursing students, across all levels and sites at the U of S, feel seen, connected, and empowered. We aim to offer meaningful connections among students, networking opportunities with professional Black nurses provincially and nationally, and access to scholarships postings, job postings, and more. While we are Black-focused, we welcome membership from individuals of all races who share our vision and mission.
About the CBNA-USak president
My name is Ajah Maluk, and I am in my 4th year of the BSN program at the University of Saskatchewan. During my first semester of nursing school, one major challenge I faced was the lack of support. I knew very few senior Black BSN students—only one, in fact—and I often wished I had someone to guide me through what is widely considered a demanding program. This experience motivated me in subsequent years to reach out to other Black students, particularly those in junior classes, to serve as a source of support when they needed it most.
In working with these students, I quickly realized there are challenges that are unique to Black nursing students. Systemic racism, stereotyping, underrepresentation, limited mentorship, and a lack of equitable guidance all create hurdles that can hinder progress and success. These experiences inspired me to step out of my comfort zone and initiate CBNA-USask, the first supportive club for Black nursing students at the University of Saskatchewan’s College of Nursing.
CBNA-USask is an extension of the nationally established Canadian Black Nurses Alliance (CBNA). This connection allows Black nursing students at USask to form meaningful connections with one another, access mentorship from professional Black nurses, receive guidance when dealing with racism, and access information about scholarships, job opportunities, and other resources to support their academic and professional journeys.
Looking ahead, I plan to advocate for CBNA-USask to be formally introduced at the College of Nursing’s orientation day. This will ensure that new Black students are aware of the support available to them right from the start of their program. Additionally, I aim to recruit faculty members who share our vision and host events that foster unity, empowerment, and growth within our community.
As I approach graduation, I am committed to supporting this initiative as an alumna, continuing to work with CBNA-USask and its national organization. My goal is to contribute in my future role as an Academic Alumni Liaison, ensuring that future generations of Black nursing students have access to the support, mentorship, and empowerment they deserve. Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive nursing community.
About the academic chapter CBNA-Memorial University of Newfoundland
CBNA-MUN is a chapter created by Black nursing students at Memorial University of Newfoundland, with the goal of fostering a strong and supportive network. By connecting students across all levels and sites of the nursing program, CBNA-MUN is committed to providing the resources and tools necessary for academic and professional success.
Our chapter is dedicated to ensuring access to opportunities, empowering students to overcome challenges, and inspiring them to excel in their professional journeys. We strive to create a safe and inclusive environment where Black nursing students are seen and supported. Through professional development and community engagement, CBNA-MUN empowers its members to embrace their unique paths and make a lasting impact in the healthcare field. Together, we are shaping a future where diversity and excellence are at the forefront of nursing.
About the CBNA-MUN president
Kamso Nzewi is a third-year nursing student in the Centre for Nursing Studies Collaborative Program with Memorial University of Newfoundland. When she first began her nursing education, Kamso found the transition challenging, particularly due to the limited presence of Black nursing students who could offer guidance and mentorship. This experience sparked her passion for supporting other Black students in the program, and she quickly recognized the importance of fostering a sense of community and connection among them.
Well involved in leadership roles, Kamso serves as the CRRNL (College of the Registered Nurses of Newfoundland and Labrador) student representative for her class, where she communicates between the body and her class. She is committed to helping create positive changes within the nursing program and ensuring that all students feel supported. She aims to create a strong network for Black nursing students across the different sites of the program, ensuring that they have the resources, mentorship, and guidance needed to succeed.
Kamso is particularly passionate about supporting first-year students, helping them navigate the rigorous demands of nursing school, and connecting them with a community of peers who share similar experiences. Through CBNA, Kamso works to create a space where Black nursing students can share their stories, learn from one another, and build meaningful relationships that
extend beyond the classroom. Outside of her leadership roles, Kamso enjoys volunteering and experimenting with new recipes. She is deeply committed to helping her community and making a positive impact both within her academic setting and beyond. Kamso is excited about her future contributions to CBNA.
About the academic chapter CBNA-McMaster
CBNA-McMaster hopes to connect Black nursing students across all sites, levels and streams of McMaster’s nursing program. With the support of the CBNA, CBNA-Mac works diligently to equip Black nursing students with resources for successful academic journeys, ensure their equal access to opportunities, and inspire them to step boldly into their nursing careers. All while helping them with any challenges they may face.
Advocacy, empowerment and leadership are the three pillars of our Chapter’s mission.
About the CBNA-Mac president
Lily Brown is currently in her third year of the Conestoga College-McMaster University nursing program. In previous years, Lily has been a member of CBNA-Mac’s executive team as a Liaison. Currently, Lily co-leads the club of 9 members as a President and is ecstatic to increase her involvement within the club as well as her impact on the local nursing community. This year CBNA-Mac has hosted events such as Mixers, Let’s Talk About It and various collaborations. The team anticipates having events filled semester for the next term!
Lily has been consistently driven to make changes within her community – taking part in activist groups since she was young. In high school, she was a driving force in the creation of a union for people of colour and co-hosted an educational podcast during BHM. Her contributions to the community have been recognized by the Canadian Caribbean Association of Waterloo Region, Sunbeam Community and Developmental Services and the Waterloo Chapter of the Congress of Black Women of Canada.
As she progressed into the nursing profession, Lily noticed the clear discrepancies between black healthcare practitioners and their non-black counterparts. Luckily, Lily was able to find CBNA and CBNA-Mac early in her journey. Within both spaces, Lily felt empowered to advocate for herself and her peers. In her new role, Lily hopes that she will continue to foster a space that encourages fellow black nursing students to grow to new heights in the healthcare sector and can be one of the many models of the strength and resilience of black healthcare professionals.
About the academic chapter CBNA-University of Toronto
The Canadian Black Nurses Alliance – University of Toronto (CBNA-UofT) is a student-led chapter of the Canadian Black Nurses Alliance (CBNA), dedicated to supporting and empowering Black nursing
students at the University of Toronto.
CBNA-UofT fosters a welcoming environment where students can connect across all levels of the nursing program, share experiences and resources, and offer academic and professional support. We address the underrepresentation of Black students and educators in our nursing program by ensuring that students feel heard, supported, and equipped with the resources and opportunities they need for growth. Our initiatives focus on building professional networks, offering mentorship, and organizing events that promote both academic and career development. We also foster a tight-knit community where students can relate to one another, share their cultural experiences, and discuss their journeys in nursing. These activities provide opportunities for students to connect with nurses of color who serve as mentors and role models across various nursing fields.
By building community and providing mentorship, CBNA-UofT empowers members to pursue leadership roles, overcome challenges, and excel academically and professionally. We are committed to amplifying the presence of Black nursing students within our faculty, ensuring they feel connected, supported, and inspired to thrive both academically and professionally while driving positive change. CBNA-UofT is dedicated to creating a vibrant and supportive community where Black nursing students can excel and contribute confidently and proudly to the future of nursing.
About the CBNA-University of Toronto president
Morayo Aladejana is a second-year student in the University of Toronto’s accelerated Nursing Program and currently serves as the president of the CBNA-UofT Chapter. In this leadership role, she is committed to empowering and supporting Black nursing students as they navigate their professional journeys, creating a strong and supportive network for students to share experiences, build meaningful connections, and access valuable opportunities for growth. Beyond her leadership at CBNA-UofT, Morayo has volunteered extensively, mentoring Black high school students interested in healthcare professionals and has contributed to panels where she shares her insights and experiences.
Morayo completed her undergraduate degree in Biomedical Sciences at Toronto Metropolitan University, where she advocated for student concerns as a member of her program’s course union and served as Vice President of Equity for the Association of Undergraduate Women in Science, working to create inclusive and equitable spaces for all students. Her dedication to fostering supportive environments extends to her role as a Patient Experience Ambassador at Sunnybrook Hospital, where she has championed the needs of underserved populations.
Her desire to pursue nursing was deeply influenced by the impact of a Nigerian nurse, who, like her, was dedicated to improving care for Black patients with sickle cell disease; patients like her father. This experience solidified her passion for the profession. Having experienced disparities as a patient, student, and in the workforce, Morayo aspires to bridge the gap in resources, advocacy and support for both Black patients and healthcare providers. At the University of Toronto, Morayo is committed to amplifying CBNA’s presence within the nursing faculty. She strives to connect Black students with valuable opportunities early in their academic journeys and organize events that foster a sense of family and community on campus and beyond.
About the academic chapter CBNA-UAlberta
CBNA-University of Alberta (CBNA-UAB) is a chapter created by Black nursing students for Black nursing students. Along with the CBNA we are dedicated to the service of our community within the University of Alberta and to creating an enabling and capacity-building platform that propels nurses to academic and professional excellence in all spheres of society.
About the CBNA-Alberta president
Precious Majekodunmi is currently completing her third year of the University of Alberta Collaborative Nursing program. She serves as the president of CBNA-UAB and has guided the club with the support of dedicated executive members and alumni. She aims to foster a sense of community among Black nursing students. Precious strongly believes in the significance of making Black nursing students feel supported and empowered. This can be achieved through the exchange of expertise as nursing students and shared lived experiences.
Precious is passionate about advocating for the betterment of the challenges that nursing students face and aims to create opportunities that enhance the professional development of Black nursing students. She places emphasis on ensuring that first year students are aware of CBNA early on to provide them with a community, networks and several resources.
Looking ahead, Precious plans to execute fun and inspirational events throughout the year. She is ecstatic about the opportunity to advocate for increased representation and a healthcare system that reflects the diversity of colour and experiences. Beyond her role at CBNA-UAB, Precious also serves as the nursing faculty representative on the student council at her university and she envisions integrating both roles strategically to bring about positive change.
Precious is grateful and honoured to be a part of CBNA-UAB and eagerly anticipates the remarkable achievements that lie ahead.
About the academic chapter CBNA-Cape Breton University
CBNA-Cape Breton University (CBNA-CBU) is s a Black-led student extension of the Canadian Black Nurses Alliance Initiative. The goal of this chapter at Cape Breton University is aimed towards creating a community for Black nursing students here on campus.
Our mission is to provide an open and professional space where we can network with other students across various levels of the program, encourage and support each other. The CBNA intends to be a source of mentorship, coaching and resource to Black nursing students at Cape Breton University, with this support CBNA-Cape Breton will work to ensure equal access to opportunities for Black nursing students and inspire these students to step boldly into their nursing career while helping them with any challenges they may face.
About the CBNA-Cape Breton University
Ifeoma is a term eight Cape Breton University (CBU) nursing student. Currently, Ifeoma has undertaken the role of the president of CBU’s first chapter of the CBNA.
Ifeoma has consistently shown interest and support in our goal to increase Black representation and empowerment at CBU school of nursing, and has been a driving force in bringing our chapter to life.
Her commitment to leadership stems from her previous experiences both personally and professionally. When asked to reflect on what has led Ifeoma to nursing as well as the CBNA chapter she quotes, “moving to Canada in 2018 from Nigeria was challenging due to cultural differences. I started my journey into Nursing after a year in Canada, in an Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program which was one of the most challenging years of my life due to being the only Black person in the entire school.
Now bridging into the Registered Nursing program here at CBU, the diversity has increased, however there is still a need for improvement. As the president, I am excited to start a chapter of the CBNA here at CBU with fellow students and faculty support to ensure Black nursing students like myself have a sense of belonging, experience equity and a community where they can feel like themselves and close to home, especially when considering our new nursing students.
With this chapter I hope to build a safe space for Black nursing students where their feelings are heard, validated and there is improvement in our clinical experiences not only in Halifax but across the nation. My hope is that our experiences are continuously shared in an effort to reduce systemic racism in acdemia amd the healthcare environment.”
About the academic chapter CBNA-Université de Montréal
CBNA-Université de Montréal (CBNA-UDEM) is a chapter created by francophone nursing students of all backgrounds. Given the lack of diversity in the faculty, CBNA-UDEM wants to create a safe environment where students of colour can grow together and feel seen and protected. Along with CBNA national, this academic chapter is dedicated to ensuring that Black nursing students have the resources they need to succeed.
About the CBNA-Université de Montréal president
Shekinaah is a second year student at the faculty of nursing of Université de Montréal. She is the president of CBNA-UDEM and has been leading this chapter with 11 amazing nursing students. Jointly, they organized study dates, informational posts and collaborative events. Their purpose is to raise awareness about the struggle that plagues Black communities.
Shekinaah is an energetic person who is willing to do anything to put a smile on people faces. Outside of CBNA, Shekinaah is devoted to her community and serves in different spheres. She worked alongside kids and the youth of her local church. Her purpose is to be a part of the change for people who who like her wants to grow in a world where there is equity and love.
She is grateful to be apart of CBNA-UDEM and with her team she will be able elevate the Black voices in the healthcare community. She believes that future generation should be able do what they love with being stopped by theirs skin colors. She is fighting for a better healthcare system that actually represents the colors of the world we live in.
About the academic chapter CBNA-McGill
CBNA-McGill University (CBNA-McGill) is a chapter created by Black Francophone nursing students. Along with the CBNA national CBNA-McGill is on a mission to empower the local Black community by giving them to tools they need to be their own advocates in their care. Our goal is to establish ourselves as a stronghold for developing as nursing students the attributes of leadership and self-assurance that will enable us to be the future faces of Black healthcare excellence in the nursing profession.
About the CBNA-McGill president
About the academic chapter CBNA-York University
CBNA-York University (CBNA-YorkU) is a chapter created by Black nursing students. Given the great diversity at York University, the lack of representation in faculty and leadership positions is quite evident. This prompted discussions with CBNA National on creating a space and environment which allows Black nursing students to feel motivated, empowered and supported. The whole prospect of this academic chapter is to enable Black excellence and address this prevailing issue.
About the CBNA-YorkU president
James Ehiagwina is currently in his second year at York University, where he’s pursuing a degree in Nursing. Known for his compassionate nature and a deep commitment to community and advocacy, James holds the role of president within the Canadian Black Nurses Alliance – York University Chapter.
Guiding a dedicated team of 20 members, he passionately advocates for the support and community-building essential for black nursing students. His devotion extends beyond the campus borders as James maintains a profound connection to his community, placing a particular emphasis on the mental health and well-being of individuals, especially within the black community. I
Amid his academic journey, James enjoys moments of leisure, engaging in activities like playing frisbee, sharing quality time with friends, and immersing himself in captivating films. Furthermore, in his role as a student success peer mentor with Black Excellence at York University, James exemplifies his unwavering commitment to supporting and uplifting his peers.
His goal is to be a kind and supportive leader, ensuring a welcoming and friendly place for all black nursing students at York University.
About the academic chapter CBNA-Western University
The Canadian Black Nurses Alliance Western Chapter is devoted to bringing awareness to racial inequality in healthcare, providing resources to Black nurses that will help them to overcome such inequality, and creating a supportive community in which undergraduate and graduate Black nurses can mentally, academically, and socially thrive. We value the empowerment and confidence instilled in Black students when they know they have a community cheering them on.
Our chapter is determined to provide social, financial, and academic support tuned to the Black experience as we collaborate with other CBNA Chapters and Black clubs at Western to reach as many Black nurses and students as possible. We aspire to establish pillars of appreciated vulnerability, social justice, emotional validation, and academic and career success within our Black community. We are incredibly grateful that CBNA has provided the opportunity to do so.
About the CBNA-Western president
Paula Ginikachi Umeh is in her 3rd year in the collaborative BScN Program at Western University. She succeeds Gail Lywood, an aspiring graduating nursing student who established the academic chapter in 2022 and left large shoes to fill. Paula is grateful to be a part of an inspiring organization and is determined to help fulfill the mission of CBNA: “to serve, mentor, and empower Black Canadian Nurses through the power of community”. She is confident that she can support this mission by exercising the leadership and collaboration skills that she acquired throughout her 4 years of experience in social justice and support for Black students as an executive (3 years) and general member (1 year) of her high school’s Black history month team.
She was recognized for her efforts by Ontario’s Lieutenant Governor, Elizabeth Dowdeswell, and the Ontario Heritage Trust when she was awarded a Youth Achievement Award at the 2020 Lieutenant Governor’s Ontario Heritage Awards, then featured in an article on Toronto.com.
Wanting to become more involved in advocacy, community building, and leadership, she ran for and won grade 11 and 12 representatives on her high school’s student council and then year 1 and 2 representative on the Western Fanshawe Nursing Student Association at Western University on which she is also co-VP Events for her 3rd year.
When she is not participating in student politics, she has a passion for charity which encouraged her to start an unofficial non-profit organization called UntitledBlessings (@untitledblessings on Instagram). She wishes to be a part of a non-profit organization after her undergraduate studies and use her Nursing degree to help people around the world, especially in her home country Nigeria.
Coming from Nigeria, Paula had no concept of racism until she got to Canada. After witnessing her colleagues experience discrimination from patients and other colleagues in healthcare, Paula understands the negative effects that racism within healthcare can have on black nurses. She demands change and is determined to make it. Paula is excited to work with her team members to build a strong community at Western that will benefit future, past, and present black nurses, give them a safe space to express their valid feelings and opinions and instill hope that racial inequality in Canadian healthcare can be overcome.
We all bleed the same colour and health care is an environment in which this is even more apparent. It is time people start acting like it.
About the academic chapter CBNA-Trent
Along with the CBNA national, CBNA-Trent promotes the welfare and interests of Black nursing students at Trent University through the provision of support, activities, publications, social forums and events. It additionally acts as a bridge between students and faculty; providing insights into cultural competency that can be applied in the classroom and clinical settings. At its core, it serves as a safe space for Black nursing students to come together and discuss their difficulties, successes, and experiences, both in and out of the classroom. CBNA-Trent events often center around much-needed mentorship from Black nursing professionals and increasing awareness of issues faced by Black nurses & nursing students. Through executive and committee roles, CBNA-Trent members may partake in invaluable, real-world opportunities to practice leadership skills that allow them to gain confidence and expertise.
About the CBNA-Trent president
Dorcas is currently pursuing a degree in Nursing, where she is deeply committed to health equity.
Known for her dedication and passion, Dorcas holds the role of President within the Canadian Black Nurses Alliance – Trent University Chapter.
As a student peer mentor, Dorcas exemplifies her unwavering commitment to supporting and uplifting her peers.
“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”.
Dorcas has been steadfast in her mission to cultivate a supportive and empowering environment for Black nursing students, enabling them to give back to the Black community. She achieves this by imparting her knowledge as a nursing student and leveraging her personal experiences. This dedication not only nurtures a sense of community but also inspires others to actively participate and contribute.
Images from the CBNA-Mac
Images from the CBNA-UAB
Images from the CBNA-UDEM
Images from the CBNA-McGill
Images from the CBNA-YorkU
Additional information
To find out more about CBNA-McMaster and CBNA-UAB please follow them on Instagram and/or Linkedln