Dr. Bolu Ogunyemi, a Nigerian-born 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). Dr. Ogunyemi, who is a practicing medical dermatologist in St. John’s, Newfoundland, and a visiting specialist in Labrador City since 2018, was elected during a vote held from November 20 to December 4, 2024.
The election saw Dr. Ogunyemi triumph over Dr. Susan MacDonald, a renowned palliative care specialist, for the position. In a statement following his victory, Dr. Ogunyemi expressed his commitment to advocating for a unified medical profession, a strong healthcare system, and healthier communities.
Pending approval at the CMA’s Annual General Meeting in May 2025, Dr. Ogunyemi will officially assume the role of president-elect, with his term as president set to begin in May 2026. His groundbreaking achievement has garnered widespread praise from both Canadian and Nigerian communities, symbolizing progress in breaking barriers and inspiring future leaders in medicine.
