Dr. 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 secured the position after defeating fellow candidate Susan MacDonald.
In his new role, Ogunyemi will represent the CMA in engagements with the media, provincial and territorial medical associations, government bodies, and partner organizations across Canada.
Ogunyemi’s extensive leadership experience includes serving as the inaugural assistant dean of social accountability at Memorial University from 2020 to 2023 and holding a position on the Labrador Medical Association Board of Directors. In 2024, he completed a fellowship in health services improvement at the University of Alberta’s School of Public Health.
Ogunyemi will serve as CMA president-elect pending formal approval at the association’s general council in May 2025, after which he will begin his one-year term as president.
Following his election, Ogunyemi expressed his commitment to strengthening Canada’s healthcare system and fostering healthier communities.
“My track record in medical leadership, spanning 15 years, has provided me with expertise on pressing issues facing our healthcare system today,” he said. “As CMA president-elect, I will advocate for a unified and respected profession, a robust healthcare system, and healthier communities.”
Ogunyemi’s election marks a significant milestone in the history of the CMA, reflecting a broader commitment to diversity and inclusion within the medical profession.