Black Nursing Leaders Inspiring Health Systems Change
A Virtual Panel Event
Black Nursing Leaders: Inspiring Health Systems Change
A Virtual Event
Thursday, February 27, 2024 | 6:00 PM – 7:10 PM EST | Online via Zoom
In celebration of Black History Month, we invite you to join us for a panel discussion featuring Black nursing leaders who are shaping healthcare through advocacy, policy influence, and innovation. The panelists will explore how their work is transforming health systems, addressing inequities, and inspiring the next generation of nurses.
Moderator

Ava Onwudegwu, RN, MN
Clinical Director Lakeridge Health, VP, Canadian Black Nurses Alliance, Adjunct Lecturer, Lawrence Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing
Ava Onwudegwu is an innovative healthcare leader, VP of the Canadian Black Nurses Alliance (CBNA), and Director of Academic Relations. As Clinical Director at Lakeridge Health, she drives transformative initiatives, fosters collaboration, and champions excellence in patient care, leadership, and equity in healthcare.. She also serves as an Adjunct Lecturer at the U of T Lawrence Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing.
Panelists

Dr. Angela Cooper Brathwaite, RN, PhD (2004)
Past President RNAO
Dr. Angela Cooper Brathwaite is a Past President of the Registered Nurses Association of Ontario, Co-Chair of RNAO’s Anti-Black Racism Task Force, and Adjunct Professor at Ontario Tech University. She holds a PhD in Nursing from the University of Toronto and has provincial and international experience in leadership positions. She is a researcher and policy advocate.

Ovie Onagbeboma, RN
CEO, Canadian Black Nurses Alliance
Ovie Onagbeboma is a nurse leader, researcher, and equity advocate. As CEO of the Canadian Black Nurses Alliance, she drives national expansion and empowerment. A Research Associate at TMU’s Diversity Institute and advisory member to Canada’s Chief Nursing Officer, she champions systemic change in healthcare.