On Saturday, December 14, 2024, the Hampton Inn and Suites in Ottawa came alive with the sounds of music, laughter, and heartfelt conversations as Black Nurses Ottawa (BNO) hosted its annual Gala Night. The event was a vibrant celebration of African heritage, bringing together nurses from Ottawa, Toronto, and other cities. With delicious food, refreshing drinks, engaging entertainment, and inspiring speeches, the night was a testament to the strength and unity of Black healthcare professionals.Founded by Patricia Ogban, BNO is more than an organization; it’s a community that uplifts and empowers Black nurses who face challenges in their careers. Through mentorship, advocacy, and support, BNO has become a lifeline for those navigating systemic barriers in the healthcare system.
From Struggles to Strength: Patricia Ogban’s Vision
Patricia Ogban, the founder of BNO, spoke passionately about her motivation to start the group. She reflected on her early nursing career, saying, “I was looking for a community of people like me who understood the struggles I was facing.
After graduating, I became a director of care with the City of Ottawa, and I saw that there was a deep need for Black nurses to connect, share experiences, and support each other.” Ogban described the challenges she noticed among Black nurses, including feelings of isolation and difficulty navigating workplace expectations. “It wasn’t just about individual struggles; there were systemic issues like lack of representation in leadership roles and the inability to address workplace challenges effectively,” she explained. Recognizing these gaps, she decided to create a safe space where nurses could come together, share resources, and learn how to overcome these obstacles as a united front.The organization, which began humbly in a church basement, has now grown into a thriving network. Ogban expressed immense pride in the progress, saying, “Hearing stories of how BNO has changed lives fills me with so much joy. It inspires me to do more.”
Building Bridges Through Advocacy and Mentorship
President of BNO, Mrs. Phanice (Faye) Sagarah, highlighted the organization’s achievements during its three-year journey. “We’ve created a community where members support and respect one another. This group became especially important during COVID, when many of us felt isolated. It gave us a space to mentor each other and stay strong through challenging times.” Sagarah emphasized the importance of mentorship, not just for nurses but for all Black healthcare providers in Canada. “We understand the unique challenges they face, from subtle biases to outright racism. She said BNO’s goal is to equip healthcare providers with the tools and confidence to navigate these issues while also advocating for systemic changes that promote inclusivity and respect in the workplace. With over 30 members and growing, BNO envisions expanding its mentorship programs to reach more healthcare providers, especially students entering the field. “We want every member to know they’re not alone,” Sagarah told Akatarian. “When you join BNO, you gain a support system that listens to you, uplifts you, and helps you thrive.”
Inspiring Advocacy and Recognition
Guest speaker Princewill Ogban, Director of Anti-Racism, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion at the National Gallery of Canada, delivered an inspiring keynote address. He praised the BNO community for their resilience and dedication to creating a more equitable healthcare system. “Being a Black professional in any workplace makes you a trailblazer. Your unique perspectives enrich the system, even as you face challenges like systemic racism, micro-aggressions, and workplace inequality,” he said. Ogban reminded the audience of the significance of honoring their heritage while striving for progress. Drawing on the symbolism of the Sankofa bird, he encouraged attendees to learn from the past to shape a better future. “Your accomplishments are paving the way for future generations of Black healthcare workers,” he added.
Looking Ahead
The Gala Night concluded with a renewed sense of purpose and excitement for the future. Plans for 2025 include initiatives such as scholarships to support Black nurses’ education, health equity campaigns, community bootcamps, and expanded mentorship opportunities. BNO also intends to launch “Wellness Wednesdays,” weekly online sessions focusing on mental health, stress management, and work-life balance. BNO’s vision is to promote a culture of recognition and collaboration while addressing the systemic challenges Black nurses face. “We want to create spaces where Black healthcare providers feel valued, heard, and empowered to succeed,” Patricia Ogban shared.
For Africans in the diaspora, the Black Nurses Ottawa Gala Night wasn’t just a celebration; it was a reminder of the strength found in community and the transformative power of unity. Through resilience, advocacy, and support, BNO is paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable healthcare system, one nurse at a time.
