Dr Bolu Ogunyemi was officially sworn in as the 158th president of the Canadian Medical Association on May 29, 2026, shattering a 159-year glass ceiling as the first Black physician to lead the organisation since its founding in 1867.
At 39, the St. John’s-based dermatologist is also one of the youngest presidents in CMA history, and the first to have graduated from Memorial University of Newfoundland’s medical school.
“I’m hoping that, in the future, the composition of physicians in our country more closely reflects the patients that we’re called to serve,” Ogunyemi said upon taking office.
His clinical footprint spans both urban and remote Canada. Since 2018, he has practised in St. John’s while making regular trips to Labrador City to serve communities in western Labrador — an experience that has shaped his presidency’s central mission. “Whether you’re all the way up in Nain, Labrador, or down in St. John’s, everyone deserves equitable access to care,” he said.
Ogunyemi assumes leadership at a moment of acute strain on Canada’s health system, marked by an ageing population and a critical shortage of family doctors. His one-year term will focus on strengthening primary care, reducing the administrative burden on physicians, and safely integrating healthcare innovation. He also intends to advance the CMA’s commitment to Indigenous health equity.
He credits his years in Newfoundland and Labrador with forging the resilience required for the national stage. “We’re genuine folks, we have generosity of spirit, and I think when we’re working with stakeholders and dealing with important, sensitive issues, it’s important to be able to bring your best self,” he said.
Ogunyemi succeeds Dr Margot Burnell of New Brunswick. Dr Courtney Howard of Yellowknife has been named president-elect and will assume the role in 2027.
