ARNM Participates in University of Manitoba CBNA Black History Month Celebration
ARNM was proud to take part in the University of Manitoba Canadian Black Nurses Alliance (CBNA) Black History Month celebration, From Barriers to Breakthroughs: Black Nurses Inspiring Change, held February 2 at the Helen Glass Atrium.
The event brought together nurses, students, leaders, and community members to recognize the contributions, leadership, and impact of Black nurses while highlighting ongoing progress and future opportunities within the profession. The program featured a strong lineup of speakers, including Uzoma Asagwara, Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care; Ava Onwudegwu, CBNA Vice-President; and Ann Nzeruem, Founder of Mara Home and Healthcare Service. Attendees also enjoyed a fashion show and cultural dance performances as part of the celebration.
ARNM President Jacob Ahiaegbe, RN, MBA, spoke at the event on behalf of the Association, sharing remarks in support of equity, representation, and continued advancement within nursing. As part of ARNM’s commitment to supporting emerging voices and leadership in nursing, the Association also presented a cheque to the University of Manitoba CBNA chapter during the event.
In recognition of Black History Month, ARNM further extended the conversation through its professional development webinar series, Talk Tuesday, by hosting a special session titled Voices in Nursing: A Black History Month Panel. The panel featured Jacob Ahiaegbe, RN, MBA, ARNM President; Abigail Kawadza, MN, RN, Manager of Health Services Primary Care with Interlake Eastern Regional Health Authority; and Ann Nzeruem, RN, MN, NP, of Mara Home and Healthcare Services Inc. The session created space for shared perspectives, lived experience, and meaningful discussion among nurses and health-care leaders.
ARNM is grateful for the opportunity to participate in and support events that celebrate diversity, leadership, and progress in nursing, and we thank the University of Manitoba CBNA chapter for hosting an engaging and impactful Black History Month program.