2024 Nominees

Celebrating a Trailblazer in Medicine and Advocacy
Dr. Chika Stacy Oriuwa is a medical trailblazer, advocate, and accomplished physician who has significantly impacted the fields of healthcare, education, and social justice. A graduate of the University of Toronto's Faculty of Medicine, Dr. Oriuwa made history as the first Black woman to be named valedictorian of her graduating class in 2020. Currently, she is completing her residency in psychiatry at the University of Toronto, with plans to specialize in neuropsychiatry and forensic psychiatry.

Dr. Oriuwa’s influence extends beyond her medical practice. She is a professional spoken word poet and public speaker who has captivated audiences with her powerful performances and speeches on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), mental health, and leadership. Her advocacy for Black health and against institutional discrimination has led her to be a vocal proponent for systemic change within the medical community.

Among her numerous accolades, Dr. Oriuwa was named one of TIME Magazine's 2021 Next Generation Leaders and featured on Maclean’s Power 50 List in 2022. She was also honored in Mattel’s #ThankYouHeroes campaign with a one-of-a-kind Barbie doll made in her likeness, recognizing her contributions as a frontline healthcare worker during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Oriuwa’s work has also been recognized by Best Health Magazine, which named her one of their '2020 Women of the Year.' In addition to her clinical and advocacy work, Dr. Oriuwa is an accomplished writer, having published articles on the intersection of race and medicine. Her upcoming memoir, Unlike The Rest: A Doctor’s Story, set for release in October 2024, will chronicle her journey as a Black woman in medicine and her ongoing efforts to foster equity and inclusion in healthcare.

Dr. Oriuwa's dedication to service, education, and advocacy continues to inspire a new generation of leaders.

Her work and advocacy continue to influence and inspire many, making her a true leader in the fight for a more equitable and inclusive healthcare system.

A Trailblazer in Career Empowerment and Immigrant Success
Eno Eka, CEO & Founder of The Business Analysis School and a Forbes Coaches Council member is honored at the BOND Awards for her outstanding leadership and transformative impact. From Nigeria to Canada, her journey reflects resilience and dedication. Eno has made a profound impact by helping non-tech professionals and immigrants land six-figure jobs within months. Her expertise has benefited over 100,000 professionals from over 90 countries, earning her numerous awards and significantly influencing the business analysis and immigrant communities in Canada. Based in Calgary, Eno is a distinguished business analyst, consultant, and award-winning career coach. She teaches business analysis at the University of Manitoba and leads the Business Analysis School, preparing professionals for lucrative careers. As CEO of Eny Consulting Inc., she enhances business performance through digital technology. In five years in Canada, Eno has touched countless lives with her mentorship and coaching. She is an active volunteer with organizations like the Calgary Region Immigrant Employment Council (CRIEC) and the Calgary Dream Centre, and she hosts the "Fireside Chat with Eno" podcast, offering job search insights. Eno's remarkable achievements, including being a Forbes 30 under 30 nominee and a Top 100 Black Women to Watch in Canada, underscore her dedication to empowering others. Her work exemplifies the spirit of the BOND Awards, inspiring others to achieve their goals and create positive change.

Celebrating a Trailblazer in Youth Leadership and Service
Fikayo Aderoju is a pioneering force in youth leadership, becoming the first Nigerian to receive both the prestigious Ontario Medal for Young Volunteers and the Princess Diana Award in the same year. His influence as an award-winning entrepreneur and advocate has reached millions, earning him accolades such as the BMI Youth Champion Award in 2024. Fikayo's remarkable journey includes founding Project Impacting Lives, the largest youth-led care product distribution initiative in Canadian history, which has provided over 10,000 care products to those in need across Ontario.

As the youngest director on the executive board of the MLSE Foundation Game Changers, Fikayo contributes significantly to community betterment through sports. His leadership extends to roles as a World Economic Forum Global Shaper and former Head of Housing for the Toronto Youth Cabinet. Fikayo’s dedication to youth empowerment is further demonstrated through his establishment of the Fikayo Aderoju Scholarship Grant and his presidency of the Canadian Young Economic Forum (CYEF). His exceptional contributions to service, entrepreneurship, and advocacy continue to inspire and impact countless lives, marking him as a true trailblazer and role model for young leaders worldwide.

Emeka Nnadi Celebrating a Visionary Leader in Urban Design and Community Transformation
Emeka Nnadi's outstanding achievements in urban design and architecture have had a profound impact on communities across North America. As the founding Principal and CEO of Nadi Group, he has successfully led the completion of over 1,750 projects, earning numerous national and international design awards. His work extends beyond just physical spaces; it embraces the integration of technology, sustainable practices, and human-centered design.

One of Emeka's most notable accomplishments is having a park in Winnipeg named after him—the first ever named after a member of the African community in the city. This recognition highlights his significant contributions not only to urban development but also to fostering community identity and pride.

Emeka's work also includes a strong focus on affordable housing and innovative solutions that address the challenges of climate change. His passion for community development and his visionary approach to urban design have made him a sought-after speaker, including at TEDx Winnipeg, where he shared insights on the transformative power of play, wonder, and technology in shaping humanity's future​.

This combination of technical expertise, visionary leadership, and commitment to social impact makes Emeka Nnadi a true embodiment of the excellence celebrated by the BOND Awards. His journey is an inspiration to many, showcasing the extraordinary contributions of Nigerians in the diaspora.

A Trailblazer in Storytelling and Community-Building
Sophia Etuhube is honoured at the BOND Awards for her extraordinary contributions as a reporter and editor at CBC Radio-Canada. Sophia’s ability to craft compelling narratives of human triumphs and everyday struggles across television, radio, and digital platforms is truly remarkable. Her work embodies our mission to change stereotypes and inspire the next generation through powerful storytelling. Sophia's dedication to using media as a platform for positivity and community building shines through her work. Her unique immigrant perspective enriches the media landscape, bringing vibrant stories to life and fostering a sense of connection and hope. Previously, Sophia co-owned and led JAAS Pictures Media in Lagos, Nigeria, and worked with prominent television networks, including Galaxy Television and HipTv. Her background in human interest documentary production has spotlighted exceptional stories from diverse communities. Sophia's commitment to storytelling as a catalyst for positive change is evident in her professional journey and community involvement. Her work inspires others to pursue their dreams and embrace new challenges. We are thrilled to recognize Sophia Etuhube for her unwavering dedication to impactful storytelling and community empowerment at the Inaugural BOND Awards.

Visionary Fintech Entrepreneur and Advocate for Financial Inclusion
Kingsley Madu is the visionary CEO and Founder of Expedier Inc., a pioneering startup revolutionizing global banking for BIPOC communities. With a focus on enhancing financial accessibility and transaction efficiency across borders, Kingsley is building Canada's first Black-led, BIPOC-focused digital bank—a groundbreaking initiative inspired by his personal experiences.
Under his leadership, Expedier Inc. has become a beacon of innovation in fintech, addressing the unique financial needs of immigrants and diasporic communities. Kingsley's dedication to financial inclusion has earned him recognition as a finalist for the prestigious BMO Black Entrepreneur Award, and his work has been featured in prominent platforms such as blog.google and the Nigerian Canadian Newspaper Canada.
Kingsley's entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to excellence have not only transformed the financial services landscape but have also empowered individuals and organizations to reach their full potential. His global digital nomad lifestyle has led to impactful projects and boundary-pushing achievements, making him a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs. In recognition of his remarkable achievements and the profound impact he has had on the financial services industry, the Inaugural BOND Awards are honored to celebrate Kingsley Madu as an Honouree. His story exemplifies the enduring power of innovation, resilience, and leadership in driving positive change.

A Trailblazing Leader in Law and Politics
Kelechi "Kaycee" Madu KC is a distinguished Canadian lawyer and politician, whose contributions to Alberta's legal and political landscape have had a profound and lasting impact. As the first Black person to serve as a provincial Minister of Justice and Solicitor General in Canada, Madu broke significant barriers and set a new precedent for representation in Canadian politics.
Madu's tenure as Minister of Justice was marked by his dedication to reforming Alberta's justice system, particularly in areas of fairness and equity. He played a critical role in initiatives aimed at addressing systemic racism within the legal system, and he was a vocal advocate for improving access to justice for all Albertans, regardless of their background. His leadership in these areas has not only advanced legal reforms but also fostered greater trust and inclusivity within the community. During his time as Minister of Municipal Affairs, Madu was instrumental in driving key infrastructure projects across the province, which contributed to the growth and development of Alberta's communities. His efforts in this role demonstrated his commitment to enhancing the quality of life for all residents, particularly in the face of economic challenges. Beyond his legislative accomplishments, Madu's impact extends to his advocacy for minority rights and his work in promoting diversity and inclusion within the public sector. He has been a mentor and role model for many, inspiring a new generation of leaders to pursue careers in public service and legal advocacy. The Inaugural BOND Awards are proud to recognize Kelechi "Kaycee" Madu for his exceptional leadership, his groundbreaking contributions to the legal and political spheres, and his unwavering commitment to justice and equity. His legacy continues to inspire and empower others to make meaningful contributions to their communities.

A Visionary Leader in Sustainable Architecture and Urban Planning
Samuel Óghale Oboh is honoured at the BOND Awards for his groundbreaking contributions to architecture and urban planning. As the first Canadian of African descent elected president of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada and a recipient of the prestigious Tom Sutherland Award in Architecture, Samuel's impact is truly transformative. Samuel's achievements in sustainable development and innovative urban planning have redefined architectural standards. His leadership in advocating for green spaces, eco-friendly practices, and urban livability has reshaped the field, setting a high bar for architectural excellence. With over 25 years of experience, Samuel serves as a Principal at Ensight+ Architecture, where he specializes in public architecture. His notable projects, including the Alberta Legislature Centre Redevelopment and the International Law Enforcement Academy in Botswana, showcase his expertise in creating sustainable and functional urban spaces. Samuel's role as the Honorary Consul for Botswana in Canada and his contributions as an adjunct lecturer at prestigious universities further highlight his commitment to advancing the built environment. His innovative approach and dedication to enhancing quality of life through design excellence and sustainable practices make him a standout leader in his field. Samuel Óghale Oboh's visionary leadership and pioneering work set a remarkable standard in architecture, inspiring others to embrace sustainable design and transformative public initiatives.

Internationally Acclaimed Scholar and Advocate for Police Reform
Dr. Temitope Oriola is an internationally recognized scholar in criminology and terrorism studies, renowned for his expertise in police reform. His groundbreaking research has garnered national and international acclaim, positioning him as a leading voice in the field. As a public intellectual, Dr. Oriola has made significant contributions to policy development and public scholarship, serving as a special adviser to the Government of Alberta and frequently providing expert opinions to global media organizations and think tanks.
Dr. Oriola's commitment to advancing justice and equity is evident in his numerous accolades, including the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal, the CAFA Distinguished Academic Award, and the Gerald L. Gall Human Rights Award, among others. His work has had a profound impact on criminology, influencing both academic discourse and public policy.
We are honored to nominate Dr. Temitope Oriola as an Honouree at the Inaugural BOND Awards. His exceptional scholarship and dedication to police reform have inspired a new generation of researchers and advocates, demonstrating the critical role of academic contributions in driving societal change.

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.