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Peter O. Nwosu became the 11th president of SUNY Oswego in August 2023. Nationally recognized for advancing access to higher education, driving student success, and championing higher education as a catalyst for social and economic mobility, President Nwosu brings a bold vision and a record of transformative leadership. In September 2023, he introduced Vision 4040: Expanding SUNY Oswego’s Promise, a bold initiative to increase educational attainment and spur economic development across Central New York. Building on that momentum, SUNY Oswego unveiled its five-year strategic plan in February 2025—Transforming Lives, Igniting Possibilities—a roadmap for delivering on the goals of Vision 4040. President Nwosu joined SUNY Oswego from the City University of New York (CUNY) Herbert H. Lehman College in the Bronx, New York, where he was Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Success. Previously, he served as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, Associate Vice President for Academic Programs at California State University, Fullerton, and Special Assistant to the President and Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs, Planning, and Assessment at Tennessee State University, Nashville. President Nwosu holds leadership positions on several regional and national boards related to economic development and higher education. He serves as chair of the Oswego County Micron Strategy Steering Committee and is a member of the board of CenterState CEO (New York’s premier business leadership and economic development organization). He is also on the board of Operation Oswego County. In February 2025, he was appointed by Governor Kathy Hochul to the Central New York Regional Economic Development Council (CNYREDC). In the field of postsecondary education, President Nwosu serves as chair of the Committee on Student Success for the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU). He is a former chair of the board of directors and currently a member of the Institute for Higher Education Policy (IHEP), located in Washington, D.C. A Fulbright Scholar and American Council on Education Fellow, President Nwosu is the author of over 100 scholarly works, including three books. He is a graduate of the Harvard University Institutes for Higher Education. He earned his doctorate in Communication Studies from Howard University and a master’s degree from Towson University in Maryland.
Tola Jimoh is a dynamic, multi award-winning leader whose expertise spans two worlds rarely seen together, Information Security & high-end, narrative-driven photography. As a seasoned cybersecurity strategist, Tola has advised governments, guided international organizations, and led the creation and execution of robust security programs for over 100 companies across industries. Her career includes serving as a state security advisor, developing policies across multiple African nations, and partnering with leading tertiary institutions in the USA, Canada, and Nigeria to advance technology and information security initiatives. A sought-after voice on global security issues, she has mentored hundreds of professionals into thriving careers in cybersecurity, helping bridge the gap between aspiration and achievement. Equally accomplished in the creative realm, Tola is a multi award-winning photographer and visual storyteller, renowned for capturing the essence of people, brands, and moments with sophistication and depth. Through her luxury portraiture and brand-focused productions, she has worked with individuals and organizations to create imagery that commands attention, tells authentic stories, and builds legacies. Her lens has become a platform for empowerment, amplifying underrepresented voices and fostering cross-cultural connections through the art of visual narrative. Whether developing Managed Security Services to safeguard businesses or crafting evocative imagery that elevates personal and brand identity, Tola’s work is united by a singular mission, to empower people and organizations to thrive, with confidence, vision, and resilience. Today, she continues to shape the future of both the digital and creative landscapes, one secure system and one powerful image at a time.
Toyin Kayo-Ajayi is a Nigerian-Canadian farmer, agricultural and food sovereignty activist, entrepreneur, mentor, and cultural leader. Originally from Ekiti State, Nigeria, he began farming at age five alongside his grandparents, learning traditional African farming and natural food preservation practices. After immigrating to Canada in 2001, he entered dairy farming in 2003, gaining deep expertise in Canadian agricultural systems and agribusiness. For over two decades, Toyin has mentored Black, African, and Caribbean (BAC) farmers, supporting their entry into Canadian agriculture and entrepreneurship. In 2019, he launched the Kara-Kata Africa Village Project, pioneering the successful cultivation of African cultural vegetables and herbs in Canada through innovative, organic, and climate-responsive farming practices. His work advances BAC food sovereignty and strengthens agricultural productivity across Canada and Africa. A passionate advocate and community builder, Toyin founded the Kara-Kata Afrobeat Society of Canada and leads cultural initiatives that merge music, food, and community empowerment. In 2022, he established the Canadian Black Farmers Association, creating pathways, partnerships, and policy advocacy for BAC farmers nationwide. A sought-after speaker, Toyin regularly contributes to agricultural, food security, and sustainability forums across Canada.
Adeola Fayehun is the host of Keeping It Real with Adeola, a YouTube satire show that discusses African politics. She is a Nigerian journalist who specializes in covering current geopolitical, social, and economic issues that affect the daily lives of Africans.
Jasmine Uboma is a recent Honours Statistics graduate from Western University and will be pursuing her master’s degree at Columbia University in New York City. She is the founder of the Beyond Math Foundation, where she authored analytical math books and successfully raised over $15,000 through grants and crowdfunding, establishing partnerships with organizations such as WagJag and the Government of Canada. Jasmine has also gained industry experience as a Finance Data Analytics Intern at Bell Canada, where she developed data-driven solutions to support business decisions. Her work and advocacy in education and STEM have earned her recognition, including the Actuarial Foundation of Canada’s Equality of Opportunity Scholarship and the Youth Change Leader Award. She remains committed to driving positive change in education and empowering future generations through mathematics and analytics.
Professor Caroline Makaka is a globally respected humanitarian and transformative leader dedicated to empowering communities, uplifting survivors, and uniting cultures worldwide. She is the Founder, President, and CEO of Leaders of All Nations International (LOANI), a globally recognized nonprofit advancing inclusive leadership, sustainable development, and cultural diplomacy. Under her visionary leadership, LOANI has grown from a grassroots initiative into a worldwide movement with impact across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Americas, Australia, and Antarctica. Grounded in the belief that “All Means All,” the organization amplifies marginalized voices, bridges cultural divides, and delivers education, resources, and opportunity to underserved communities. Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, Professor Makaka’s work addresses critical global challenges including poverty alleviation, social inequality, gender equity, environmental sustainability, and inclusive economic growth. A distinguished academic and mentor, she is also shaping the next generation of global leaders with the vision, resilience, and skills to navigate complex international challenges. Renowned for her ability to unite diverse stakeholders and mobilize collective action, Professor Makaka stands as a powerful force for global progress, championing justice, dignity, and sustainable change for communities around the world.
Dr. Akolisa Ufodike is an Associate Professor in the School of Administrative Studies, where he teaches auditing. He also holds an appointment in the graduate program in Public Policy, Administration, and Law, where he teaches public sector finance at the graduate level. His research interests include accountability, actor networks, common pool resources, public sector finance, and public-private partnerships. He serves as an ad hoc reviewer for several academic journals, including the Journal of Business Ethics, Accounting Perspectives, Chinese Management Journal, and Sustainability. His research has been presented at prominent conferences such as the British Accounting and Finance Association (BAFA), the American Accounting Association (AAA), and the Canadian Academic Accounting Association (CAAA), where he has also served as a reviewer. Dr. Ufodike is a CPA case examiner and brand ambassador. Before entering academia, he spent 25 years as a finance executive, with professional experience across industries including telecommunications, banking, oil and gas, utilities, and consumer packaged goods. He held leadership roles at organizations such as Bell Canada and Molson Coors. Notably, he was the co-founder and CFO of Jaguar Wireless, a participant in the 2007 Canadian wireless spectrum auction, and later served as CFO and COO of Corridor Communications Inc. (CCI Wireless), one of Canada’s largest wireless ISPs. A graduate of the Haskayne School of Business PhD program and Cornell University’s MBA program, Dr. Ufodike is a Canadian FCPA, a U.S. CPA, a UK FCCA, a Certified Fraud Examiner, and a Certified Director (ICD.D) through the Institute of Corporate Directors. He is the founder of the John Ware Institute—an organization that has placed more Black Canadians on paid boards than any other in the country. His public service includes roles on the Provincial Audit Committee for Alberta, the Board of the Canada-Nigeria Chamber of Commerce, and the Senate of the University of Calgary. He also served on the board of the TSX-listed Loyalist Group, where he chaired the Audit Committee, and on the boards of several charities, including the Peel Literacy Guild (as Treasurer) and the Black Business and Professional Association. Additionally, he served as Treasurer and later Chairman of Scouts Canada’s Chinook Council. In 2022, Dr. Ufodike made history as the first Black Canadian appointed as a Deputy Minister in the history of Alberta. During his tenure, he led two ministries: Trade, followed by Immigration and Multiculturalism. In recognition of his public service and scholarly contributions, he has received several prestigious honors, including the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal, the Institute of Public Administration of Canada (IPAC) Established Leader Award, and the King Charles III Coronation Medal.
Dr. Adeola Olubamiji, fondly called Dr. Addy, stands at the forefront of Digital Transformation and Additive Manufacturing, influencing these fields significantly across North America, Africa, and Europe. In 2017, she distinguished herself as the first black individual to earn a Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Saskatchewan, Canada, underscoring her pioneering status in the academic community. She started her career in Canada right after her PhD, relocated to the US to join a Fortune 500 company to help pioneer Additive Manufacturing. Within 4 years of starting out post-PhD she rose to the position of Director in the USA, became a Global Thought Leader in North America, Africa and Europe, Global Speaker and got several recognitions for her scientific, humanitarian and thought leadership work. In addition, Dr. Addy Olubamiji is a Distinguished Serial Entrepreneur, she is the CEO of D-Tech Centrix, a US-based Ed-tech company that champions study abroad, career coaching and immigration consulting. This company has impacted the lives of over 15,000 professionals across the US, Canada, the UK and intending migrants from Africa. Co-founder and Vice President of Synergy Private Equity Corp. Synergy Private Equity Corp is a real estate company with investment portfolio in the US and Canada with portfolio of over 60 investments in new construction, fix and flips, short-term and long-term rental properties, and lands. She is the Founder of STEMHub Foundation, a Canadian Charity organization that has profoundly impacted over 15,000 minority professionals and youths, providing them with free hands-on STEM programs, skill acquisition trainings and professional mentorship for new immigrants. Dr. Addy, a visionary leader, contributes to several boards and committees, including Women in 3D Printing, Midlothian Angels Network, and leads the Technology Track at the TIPE annual conference. Her academic contributions have yielded several scholarly scientific publications, scientific conference presentations, and a TEDx talk. Some of the awards she has won include 2022 Women of the Year by DMZ Canada, 2020 Canada's Top 100 Most Powerful Women, 2020 STEP (Science technology Engineering and Production) Award by the American Manufacturing Institute, RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrant 2020, 2019 Influential Women in Manufacturing Award by Putman Media, 2019 L'Oréal Paris Women of Worth Canada Honoree, 2019 Canada's Top 100 Black Women to Watch, and so many others.
Ejibola Adetokunbo-Taiwo Ejibola is an award-winning entrepreneurship advocate, business growth strategist, two-time TEDx speaker, and international consultant committed to advancing women’s economic empowerment through entrepreneurship. A former business banker and investment wealth analyst with over 15 years’ experience at two of Canada’s Top 5 banks, she brings deep financial expertise and strategic insight to building scalable, women-led businesses. She is the Founder and CEO of Simply Ejibola Inc., Simply Ejibola Consulting, Sedulous Women Retail iHub, and the Founder and Principal Lead Consultant of de Sedulous Women Leaders—a national platform advancing SDG 5 (Gender Equality) under the banner #NoWomanShouldBeLeftBehind. Through her work, Ejibola supports startups, side-hustlers, and growth-stage enterprises, particularly immigrant, Black, and BIPOC women toward sustainable and scalable success. Ejibola is a key leader within Canada’s women entrepreneurship ecosystem. Her research and impact have been nationally recognized, with her work referenced in the Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub (WEKH) State of Women Entrepreneurship in Canada reports (2024 & 2025) presented to the Prime Minister. She is the creator of several nationally recognized initiatives, including femImmiGRANTS, iiNTEGRATE NEXT, and the award-winning REAP+iLaunchHER program, which has successfully placed immigrant women-owned products in major Canadian retailers such as Walmart, Costco, Sobeys, Winners, and Homesense. A respected community leader and policy contributor, Ejibola has served on multiple municipal advisory committees and currently sits on the Advisory Committee to Alberta’s Minister for Status of Women. Her numerous honours include the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal, Top 25 Women of Influence in Canada, and Top 75 Canadian Immigrants. Driven by compassion, creativity, and lived experience as a Nigerian-Canadian entrepreneur, Ejibola continues to amplify underrepresented voices, build inclusive ecosystems, and create pathways for women to lead, scale, and thrive.
Celebrating Diversity and Community Leadership
Khadijah Haliru has the distinguished honor of being the first Black woman to serve on the Ingersoll town council, where she has been a pivotal advocate for inclusivity and representation. Her unwavering commitment to forming an inclusion and diversity committee and spearheading Ingersoll's potential membership in the Coalition of Inclusive Municipalities underscores her dedication to creating a welcoming and valued community for all residents. Khadijah's work enriches the social fabric of Ingersoll and sets a powerful example for other small towns across Canada. An immigrant to Canada in 2006, Khadijah holds a master's degree in Mental Health and Human Services, a degree in Public Administration, and certifications in coaching and supply chain material and product management. Her diverse career includes roles in telecoms, volunteering on the Fraser Valley Crisis Line, and eventually relocating to Brampton, Ontario, before moving to Ingersoll in 2016. Khadijah's leadership extends beyond her council role. As CEO of K Business Group Inc., she operates Brandsby K, which includes Hanak Foods, Jollof Rice Xpress, and Hanak Foods - The Africa Experience, a retail store supporting small businesses. She also established the K Coaching and Leadership Academy, focusing on mentorship and empowerment for various groups, and founded the Oxford Multicultural Network and Black Opportunity Network. Khadijah's dedication to community engagement, promoting local entrepreneurs, and the African experience is reflected in her numerous initiatives and events emphasizing diversity and multiculturalism. Her efforts to listen to and address the diverse perspectives in Ingersoll highlight the importance of representation and active engagement in local governance, demonstrating how inclusivity can drive both social harmony and economic growth. We are proud to recognize Khadijah Haliru as an Honouree at the Inaugural Bond Awards for her significant impact on the community and her leadership in promoting diversity and inclusion.
Celebrating a Lifetime of Service
Ojo Tewogbade is honoured at the BOND Awards for his outstanding service, humility, and dedication to community-building. His remarkable 35-year career with the Toronto Police Service, starting as a parking officer in 1979 and culminating as a constable at 13 Division until his recent retirement, is a testament to his dedication and service to our community. Ojo's contributions to improving relations between the local Black community and the police force are commendable. He played a pivotal role in creating the Black History Month Community Awards, an event that has celebrated community excellence since 2000. His tireless efforts with at-risk youth and his commitment to serving others have left an indelible mark on our community. Born in Nigeria, Ojo migrated to Canada in 1972. Over the past 51 years, Toronto has been his home and the stage for his extensive community service. His professional journey began in various roles, including a chrome chairs grinder, powdered drink mixer, and appliance technician. He also proudly served in the Canadian Armed Forces (Reserve). In 1973, Ojo began volunteering as a Sunday school teacher, sparking a lifelong passion for helping others. He organized and volunteered for numerous initiatives, including the 13 Division Youth Outreach Summer Camp and annual Christmas dinners for the needy. His commitment to youth development is reflected in programs like the Toronto Police and Community Basketball Program. Ojo pursued higher education, earning a Bachelor of Theology from Canada Christian College and ordination as a Reverend. He holds a Diploma in Constable Training from Ontario Police College and a Certificate in Advanced Police Science Management from Humber College. Throughout his career and retirement, Ojo has been honored with numerous awards, including letters of honor from the Prime Minister of Canada and the Mayor of Toronto. He has received the Planet Africa Prestigious Award for Volunteer of the Year and the June Callwood Outstanding Achievement Certificate for Volunteerism, among many others. Ojo's life's work is driven by a profound commitment to making a positive impact on his community. Whether through his role as a police officer, volunteer, or community organizer, he has always sought to uplift those around him. Today, he continues to support various initiatives aimed at improving the well-being of the community, embodying the values of service, compassion, and leadership that have defined his life.
Championing Community and Inclusion
Ayo Owodunni is honoured at the BOND Awards for his unwavering commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive community for immigrants and people of colour. As a community organizer, mentor, and advocate for safety and community engagement in Ward 5, Ayo's dedication to building a thriving community where families feel a sense of belonging is truly inspiring. His story of resilience and leadership serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for others. Ayo Owodunni is a management consultant and facilitator with over 10 years of experience in coaching, training, and strategic direction. Originally from Lagos, Nigeria, Ayo helps enterprise-level clients achieve big-picture goals while focusing on diversity, inclusion, and cultural understanding in the workplace. His approach combines subject matter expertise, personal stories, and just the right amount of humour, all intended to break barriers and facilitate better communication at all organizational levels. Ayo's passion and talent for connecting with audiences shine through in his work with renowned companies such as Spotify, Canada Life, Microsoft, Thomson Reuters, CIBC, TMX Group, and Hydro One. He is the author of "Values, Culture, Period" and "Inclusive Leadership: The Immigrant View," books that redefine the value of values to drive business results and help immigrants thrive in organizations. He is also the co-creator of "The Ring: 4 Steps to Transforming Your Organization Through the Power of Your Values & Culture." Since immigrating to Canada in 2016, Ayo has overcome many challenges and now helps others avoid those same hurdles. His journey has informed his innovative training programs, blending lessons learned with practical insights. Ayo holds an MBA in entrepreneurship and a Life Coach certification. He serves on several organization boards, including immigrantnetworks.com, Leadership Waterloo Region, expedier.co, and Emergency Response Africa. Additionally, he is a member of the Canadian Association of Management Consultants. Ayo's passion for community building and dedication to helping immigrants integrate and succeed in Canada serve as a powerful example for all. By sharing his story, we hope to inspire others to actively engage in their communities, support one another, and strive for excellence in all their endeavours.
Bridging Art, Engineering, and Community
Oyakhire "Oyaks" Airende is a dynamic creative and technical mind who has seamlessly blended his passion for baking, engineering, and IT to create a lasting impact in his community and beyond. Originally from Nigeria, Oyaks has called Calgary home for several years, where his baking prowess has earned him a devoted following. Inspired by his earliest food memory—a special cake made for his fourth birthday by his mother and sister—Oyaks has turned this nostalgia into a culinary art form, perfecting his signature red velvet cake.
Beyond his culinary talents, Oyaks is an accomplished engineer and IT professional with a keen scientific mind that complements his artistic eye. His work in these fields has been marked by innovation, problem-solving, and a commitment to excellence. He is known not only for his technical expertise but also for his ability to bring people together through his creative endeavors, whether it's through his baking, his love for tennis, or his pursuits in fashion and landscape photography.
In addition to his personal achievements, Oyaks has made significant contributions to his community, using his skills to mentor aspiring bakers and young professionals in engineering and IT. His story is one of perseverance, passion, and the pursuit of multiple disciplines, showcasing the power of embracing one's diverse talents. Oyaks' journey serves as an inspiration to those around him, proving that it is possible to excel in both technical fields and creative pursuits, and that the combination of these skills can lead to a fulfilling and impactful life.
Champion of Black Inclusion in Canadian Higher Education
John Ademola Ariyo is a pioneering force in advancing Black inclusion across Canadian higher education. As the Executive Director of the Scarborough Charter Secretariat on Anti-Black Racism and Black Inclusion, he leads efforts to support around 60 universities and colleges in building the capacity necessary to ensure the success of Black students, faculty, and staff nationwide. With his extensive background in municipal and provincial government leadership, John is dedicated to creating systemic change and fostering equitable communities across Canada.
His leadership has been instrumental in fostering inclusive and equitable environments within higher education.
With a wealth of experience in municipal and provincial governments, including key roles at the City of Mississauga, City of Hamilton, Elections Ontario, and the Government of Nova Scotia, John has consistently championed initiatives that build public trust, advance equity, and improve community outcomes.
His dedication to systemic change and community empowerment makes him a deserving honoree at the BOND Awards, where we celebrate his outstanding contributions to advancing Black inclusion in Canada.
A Beacon of Legal Excellence and Community Leadership
Johnson Babalola is honoured at the BOND Awards for his outstanding contributions as a Certified Immigration Specialist Lawyer and founding partner of a leading law firm in Toronto. His career is a testament to exceptional leadership, advocacy, and community service. Johnson's impact is profound. As a distinguished legal professional with over three decades of experience in Canada and Nigeria, he has made significant contributions to Canadian immigration and settlement matters. His dedication to mentoring young lawyers, promoting diversity and inclusion, and his extensive involvement in non-profit and business organizations highlight his commitment to societal betterment. Johnson's journey includes founding JBLAW Professional Corporation (Topmarké Attorneys LLP) and Goldstream Law Firm in Nigeria. He is also a founding member of the Ontario Centre for Public Policy and Strategy (OCPPS) and a director at 360° Consulting. His literary contributions, including his book "Rejected" and the blog "JB & Things," reflect his deep understanding of identity and the human experience. Johnson's leadership extends to his role as a former editor of "ImmigrationNews" and his current focus on writing about immigration, settlement, and social issues. His mentorship of young and internationally trained lawyers, along with his global consulting work, exemplifies his dedication to leadership and advocacy. Johnson's remarkable achievements and ongoing commitment to enhancing lives through law, literature, and community engagement make him a deserving honouree of the BOND Awards, inspiring others to pursue their passions and drive positive change.
Oluwabukola Adeoye(Buky) has a legal career spanning multiple jurisdictions. She was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2001 and the Ontario Bar in 2011. She holds a Master of Laws from Osgoode Hall Law School, York University, Toronto, Canada and became a qualified Labor Arbitrator in 2023 after completing the Ontario Labor Arbitration Development program. Currently, she serves as a Justice of the Peace at the Ontario Court of Justice, appointed by the Ontario Government.
Before her current role, Buky was an adjudicator and decision-maker at the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB), where she presided over refugee claims and managed a team of adjudicators for five years. She also served at the Social Security Tribunal, deciding Employment Insurance Appeals.
Prior to joining the Bench, Buky worked for the Center for Labour Relations and Negotiations at the Treasury Board Secretariat of the Ontario Government for eight years as an Employee Relations Advisor. In this capacity, she managed client ministry grievances, mediated labor relations issues, and represented cases at the Public Service Grievance Management Board/Grievance Settlement Board.
Before moving to Canada in 2006, Buky practiced civil litigation, corporate law, criminal law, and labor and employment law in Nigeria.
Buky is deeply passionate about supporting immigrants, especially foreign-trained lawyers. She dedicates her time to mentoring them, helping them re-qualify, settle, and find employment. She believes in hard work and that there is no short cut to success . She is passionate about God, married to a loving husband and has two lovely daughters.
Celebrating a Visionary in Decolonizing AI and Human Rights
Professor Jake Okechukwu Effoduh is a distinguished advocate and academic who is profoundly shaping the future of artificial intelligence (AI) in Africa. Recognized for his groundbreaking work in integrating principles of decolonization and human rights into AI development, Prof. Effoduh ensures that technology serves the well-being of African communities.
His extensive experience as an international human rights lawyer and his contributions to global AI regulatory frameworks highlight his commitment to fostering a more equitable and transparent AI ecosystem. The BOND Awards is honored to celebrate Prof. Effoduh for his tireless advocacy in centering African voices in AI, challenging historical legacies, and advancing human rights in the digital age. His work not only influences policy but also inspires a future where technology empowers rather than marginalizes.
Honoring a Youth Changemaker and Advocate for Education
Chinazam Igwe , commonly known as Zammie, is a 16-year-old changemaker from Moncton, New Brunswick. Since immigrating from Nigeria to Canada in 2019, she has become a strong advocate for youth empowerment, particularly for underrepresented communities. She focuses on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, especially SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).
Zammie is working on founding a non-profit to help racialized high school students in Atlantic Canada access professional opportunities. She has also pushed for a policy to enable student trustees in all school districts in New Brunswick, aiming to elevate student voices in education.
Recognized as one of Canada’s top 10 under 18, Zammie received the equitable education and opportunities award. She is a speaker at many social impact events and will be moderating a panel at the University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine’s annual Canadian Children, Youth, and Communities (CCYC) Health In | Equity Conference. She also is one of the 10 youth who received the Black Student Scholarship for Shad’s summer program . She is a spoken word artist who performs pieces against racism and celebrating her culture at various cultural events such as the NB black summit .
She actively volunteers with newcomer settlement organizations like Moncton Cares and is a member of the Women’s Nonprofit Network. Zammie is driven by her belief that youth are not just leaders of tomorrow but today and continues to build partnerships to expand her impact .
Global Advocate and Trailblazer for Sickle Cell Disease
Lanre Tunji-Ajayi is a renowned global patient advocate whose decades-long commitment to Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) has transformed patient care and awareness across Canada and beyond. As the Co-founder of the Sickle Cell Disease Association of Canada (SCDAC) and the Global Alliance of Sickle Cell Disease Organizations (GASCDO), Lanre has significantly raised the visibility of SCD, ensuring that the voices of patients are heard and their needs are addressed.
Lanre's tireless advocacy efforts have led to monumental achievements, including the integration of SCD into newborn screening programs, the approval of critical therapies, and the establishment of National Sickle Cell Awareness Day in Canada. Her influence extends globally through the Global Action Network for Sickle Cell & Other Inherited Blood Disorders, which has strengthened international collaboration and support for SCD patients.
Recognized for her leadership and advocacy, Lanre has received prestigious honors, including the Governor-General’s Meritorious Service Medal (MSM) and the Senate Canada 150 Award. These accolades are a testament to her unwavering dedication to improving the lives of those affected by SCD and her role as a beacon of hope and inspiration within the global healthcare community.
The Inaugural BOND Awards are privileged to honor Lanre Tunji-Ajayi for her extraordinary contributions to patient advocacy and healthcare equity. Her work continues to inspire and drive positive change, setting a high standard for excellence in the field.
Pioneering Leader in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Dr. Modupe Tunde-Byass is a distinguished leader in the medical field, renowned for her exceptional expertise in obstetrics and gynecology. With a career dedicated to advancing women's health, Dr. Tunde-Byass has become a highly respected physician and a passionate advocate for improving maternal health outcomes. Her work has focused not only on providing comprehensive care to her patients but also on addressing disparities in healthcare access and quality, particularly for marginalized communities.
Dr. Tunde-Byass' commitment to excellence is reflected in the numerous teaching and innovation awards she has garnered over the years. Her research and contributions to obstetrics and gynecology have been instrumental in shaping best practices and inspiring innovation within the field. She is recognized not only for her clinical expertise but also for her leadership, which has set new standards for quality care and continues to drive improvements in maternal health outcomes both locally and globally.Her influence extends beyond her immediate practice, as she continues to inspire and mentor the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Dr. Tunde-Byass’ story is one of dedication, leadership, and impact, serving as a powerful example for others to pursue excellence in their careers and make meaningful contributions to their industries and communities. As an honouree at the inaugural Bond Awards, her achievements are celebrated as a testament to her profound impact on the field of obstetrics and gynecology.
Visionary Filmmaker and Champion of African Stories
Rogers Ofime is a Nigerian-born Canada-based filmmaker, television producer, entrepreneur, and an Associate Fellow in Media Production at Bournemouth University, UK. He is renowned for producing several notable Nigerian television soap operas, including The Johnsons, Tinsel, and the critically acclaimed award-winning telenovela WURA currently running on Showmax. Ofime is a multiple award-winning filmmaker who has produced over 180 telefilms, about 8,000 episodes of TV series, 8 short films, 10 documentaries, and about 30 TV commercials.
Rogers Ofime is famous for being the first Nigerian producer and filmmaker to produce a multi-camera studio-based television daily soap opera. This laudable feat was the first in East, West, and North Africa. He is the man behind the scenes of most of the award-winning blockbuster movies from Nigeria’s Nollywood including but not limited to VOICELESS, OLOIBIRI, ZERO HOUR, and the soon-to-be-released first Nigerian film to be shot on a moving train CONVERSATIONS IN TRANSIT.
Ofime is the Executive Producer at Native Media Ltd and the Chief Executive Officer at Theatron Media Inc. an international filmmaking company based in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. Rogers Ofime has won the highly coveted Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards multiple times on different projects including the 2022 Best Indigenous Film (Hausa) for VOICELESS, Best Africa Magic Original Comedy Series THE JOHNSONS, Best TV Series Drama The MYSTIC RIVER, Best Picture Edit for OLOIBIRI, Best Comedy Series National Daily awards 2022 for THE JOHNSONS, and several nominations including the AMVCA 2023 nomination for Best Movie West Africa KANAANI, Best Actress in a movie or TV series (Drama) WURA, Best Comedy Series THE JOHNSONS.
He has also received international recognition, as a testament to his doggedness and consistency in producing quality original content, including Hollywood International Documentary Award 2017 for his work on migration titled Restoration: A Refugee Story, Best Foreign Film at the San Diego Black Film Festival 2015 for OLOIBIRI, Best Screenplay NAFCA Los Angeles 2015 for OLOIBIRI, Best Film Award NAFCA Los Angeles 2015 for OLOIBIRI, Best Film in Water Category at the Green Me Global Festival for Sustainability 2016 for OLOIBIRI, to mention a few among several awards and nominations under his belt.
As far as filmmaking is concerned in Africa, West Africa, and Nigeria, Rogers Ofime has distinguished himself by telling original African stories to a global viewing audience with a good eye for the wholesomeness of filmmaking.
A Legal Trailblazer and Community Leader
Charles Osuji’s journey from a law student in Nigeria to the CEO of Osuji & Smith Lawyers in Calgary showcases his dedication, resilience, and visionary leadership. Recognized as one of Canada’s Top 40 Under 40 and a recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medal, Charles has made significant contributions to the legal profession and his community.
Under his leadership, Osuji & Smith has grown into one of the largest Black-owned law firms in Canada, with a presence in Calgary, Dubai, Ottawa, and Yukon. Beyond his legal expertise, Charles is committed to mentoring the next generation of lawyers and providing innovative, cost-effective solutions to his clients.
As the founder of the Foot in the Door Initiative (FIDI), Charles empowers internationally trained lawyers in Canada. His extensive community involvement and mentorship reflect his dedication to uplifting others.
Dr. Charles Osuji (Hon. D.) is more than a legal luminary; he is a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring lawyers and a driving force for positive change in the community. His journey exemplifies the extraordinary impact that Nigerian professionals in the diaspora can achieve. It is this commitment to excellence and service that makes him a deserving nominee for the BOND Awards.
