Celebrating Black History Month 2024

February 1st marks the beginning of Black History Month – a time to honour and celebrate the history, contributions and diversity of People of African, Caribbean and Black descent. Black History Month provides us all with the opportunity to hear their stories and celebrate their significant contributions to the cultural mosaic and identity of this country.

View our 2024 Black History Month Calendar to see the events and initiatives taking place throughout the month.

Black History Month highlights recognizing our staff, physicians and volunteers can be found below. Please note that their content will be available on the indicated post date.

Meet Jenice

Jenice Lewis is a Clinical Practice Leader (CPL) for our Renal Dialysis Unit and has been at Humber for nine years.

This Black History Month, Jenice shared her thoughts on what it means to celebrate Black history and culture, and the importance of recognizing diversity in our healthcare settings.

Meet Samuel

Samuel Aikulola is a Registered Nurse in our Apotex Emergency Department, who has been with Humber for over 30 years.

This Black History Month, Samuel reflects on the importance of celebrating Black history and culture, and diversity in our healthcare settings.

Meet Patrice

Patrice Clayton is a Clinical Practice Leader (CPL) for our Church and Finch Campuses, who started at Humber in October 2023. As a CPL, Patrice demonstrates leadership by executing best practices and leading nurses to practice safely and effectively with knowledge of evidence-based care.

According to Patrice, diversity in healthcare leadership significantly impacts patient care in a positive way. “Patients tend to relate and feel cared for when they see healthcare providers that look like them,” explains Patrice. “Patients would be more apt to seek healthcare for acute and preventative needs if they felt their unique needs were being met.”

To young Black professionals aspiring to pursue a career in healthcare, Patrice encourages them to never give up on hopes and dreams to make an impact in healthcare. “As Black professionals, we have a place here, and we need to illustrate the outstanding contributions we can make in improving patient health outcomes and satisfaction.”

Patrice celebrates Black History Month by participating in the many cultural events around Toronto. “I enjoy attending these events to broaden my knowledge and understanding of black racism and prevention.”

Meet Evelyn

Evelyn Twum is a Patient Relations Representative who has been at Humber since December 2022.

This Black History Month, Evelyn shared her thoughts on what it means to celebrate Black history and culture, and the importance of recognizing diversity in our healthcare settings.

Meet Judene

Judene Stewart is the Associate Director of Corporate Engagement with Humber River Health Foundation.

According to Judene, diversity in all areas of healthcare is important and leadership is no different. “I think that patient care and hospital culture benefits when people see themselves reflected in the leadership,” explains Judene. “When people come to the hospital they are usually coming at their worst moments. To see people who may understand them, and their values can only help to alleviate their stress and anxiety.”

To young Black professionals aspiring to pursue a career in healthcare, Judene encourages them to understand that it will not always be easy work, but it is fulfilling and rewarding. “Know that you have something unique and special to offer. Don’t be afraid to let your voice and story be heard. Yours is an important one to share.”

Judene celebrates Black History Month by participating in a few cultural activities happening in the city with family and friends. “Black History Month is only one part of continuous learning and growing for me.”

Meet Joan

Joan Myers-Harrison is a Resource Person in our Cancer Care Clinic who has been at Humber for 22 years.

This Black History Month, Joan reflects on the importance of celebrating Black history, culture, and diversity in our healthcare settings.

Meet Leslie-Ann

Leslie-Ann Bailey is a Social Worker in our Apotex Emergency Department and has been with the organization for almost five years.

This Black History Month, Leslie-Ann shared her thoughts on what it means to celebrate Black history and culture, and the importance of recognizing diversity in our healthcare settings.

Meet Sandra

Sandra Sualim is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Humber River Health Foundation.

This Black History Month, Sandra shared her unique journey, as well as the importance of recognizing and fostering diversity within our organizational culture.

Meet Joy

Registered Nurse Joy McKenzie believes that diversity in the healthcare landscape is important to better understand patients. When patients feel understood and listened to, it allows for trusting relationships to develop, improving the quality care they receive.

Joy works to build trusting relationships with patients, families, and her co-workers through treating them with respect and leading by example.

Joy believes that Humber provides the respect and support needed to learn, grow, and be a better nurse. “By working together and learning from each other, together we are stronger.”

According to Joy, Black History Month provides a learning experience for her and her family, as she celebrates by going to various cultural events.