The Black Healthcare Professionals Network (BHPN), an organization dedicated to advancing the careers of Black healthcare professionals, launched its Black Healthcare Professional Directory, the first web-based database of Black healthcare professionals in Ontario. BHPN will also be hosting “Healthcare Connections” on September 16 at the University of Toronto Chestnut Residence, an event where experts from diverse health disciplines will discuss entrepreneurship and building businesses with purpose in the Canadian healthcare system.
Research has shown that racial concordance can improve communications, trust and adherence to medical advice. The directory enables the general public and healthcare providers to locate and book Black healthcare professionals in the following fields in Ontario:
- Medical physicians
- Pharmacists
- Nurses
- Dentists
- Physiotherapists
- Naturopaths
- Dietitians
- Mental health practitioners
- Chiropractors
- Occupational therapists
- Massage therapists
- Other health professionals
This Directory aims to address the underrepresentation of Black healthcare professionals by providing a platform to connect, support and promote their careers and businesses. To better serve Canadians, BHPN is calling for Black healthcare professionals to join the directory: https://bhpn.ca/directory/join-bhpn/
“Through BHPN and the Directory, we’re not just building a platform — we’re forging a movement that empowers Black healthcare professionals to rise, excel and transform the future of healthcare in Canada,” says Dr. Nikolai Whyte, Co-Founder and Managing Director of BHPN. “This initiative is a testament to our collective commitment to diversity, inclusion and entrepreneurship within the healthcare sector. Together, we’re rewriting the narrative and shaping a more representative and equitable healthcare landscape for all.”
Bridging the Gap in Canadian Healthcare
The event will initiate critical discussions to inspire change and create a more diverse and inclusive healthcare landscape in Canada. A panel will discuss entrepreneurship, building a business with purpose and improving access. Joining Dr. Whyte:
- Dr. Joan Samuels-Dennis, PhD: award-winning trauma recovery expert, speaker and author
- Alice Wiafe, M.A.,RP., PSY(D): speaker, talk show host, author and associate professor focusing on emotional healing
- Dr. Sean Wharton, MD, PharmD: MD of the Wharton Medical Clinic and adjunct professor, contributing significantly to research in bariatric medicine and type 2 diabetes
- Carl Carter R.M.T, PTS: Registered Massage Therapist and Personal Training Specialist
- Abena Addo: BHPN’s co-founder, engineer and entrepreneur (moderator)
For registration and information on Healthcare Connections, visit: bhpndirectorylaunch.eventbrite.com
About Black Healthcare Professionals Network
The Black Healthcare Professionals Network (BHPN) is a healthcare organization dedicated to advancing the careers of Black healthcare professionals. Its comprehensive range of services includes networking, career development, and advocacy to enhance diversity and inclusion within the healthcare sector. BHPN also supports aspiring Black healthcare entrepreneurs through tailored business advisory services, strategic networking, and mentorship, contributing to economic growth in the Black community and fostering innovation in healthcare.
BHPN is committed to reshaping the Canadian healthcare landscape, fostering greater inclusivity and equity to address the evolving needs of all communities.
For more information, visit https://bhpn.ca/.
