February marks a time to celebrate the achievements of Black Canadians who have shaped our diverse, compassionate, and prosperous country.
As part of our recognition of Black History Month, we are proud to highlight the voices of our staff. They share their personal reflections on what this month means to them, offer insight on how communities can become stronger allies, and provide valuable advice for the next generation.
Herbeisha Williams
Herbeisha Williams is a communications clerk. As February marks Black History Month, she offers words of reflection, teaching, and celebration.
“Personally, this moment is an opportunity to honor my heritage and roots,” says Herbeisha. “Professionally, it reminds me of the significant strides we’ve made in health care. It also reinforces the privilege I feel in building on the legacy and sacrifices of those who paved the way before me.”
Herbeisha highlights influential figures like Dr. Anderson Ruffin Abbott, Canada’s first Black doctor, whose pioneering work continues to inspire new generations. She acknowledges the progress made in diversity and inclusion within health care, but stresses that more work remains to be done to recognize the value of diverse teams that better reflect our communities and elevate Black voices.
“By forging stronger relationships with communities, understanding their unique health challenges, and including them in decision-making, health care can become more inclusive, equitable, and impactful.”
Herbeisha Williams
“Diversity doesn’t just enhance patient care — it creates an environment where individuals from all backgrounds feel seen, heard, and valued,” says Herbeisha. “By forging stronger relationships with communities, understanding their unique health challenges, and including them in decision-making, health care can become more inclusive, equitable, and impactful.”
Herbeisha encourages young Black individuals pursuing careers in health care to stay true to their passion and purpose, prioritize self-care, advocate, and to not be afraid to break barriers. She also acknowledges the role networks like our Network for Black Employees play in fostering inclusivity, addressing systemic inequalities, and cultivating a richer workplace.
“By creating space for diverse perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds, organizations can unlock a wealth of ideas, solutions, and innovations that benefit everyone,” says Herbeisha.
Olatundun Esho
Olatundun (Ola) Esho is a nurse and wound care consultant. As February marks Black History Month, she shares how she celebrates both the past, present and future.
“I celebrate by reflecting on the sacrifices made by individuals of colour in the profession who paved the way and created a path to success for others to follow,” says Ola. “I reflect on how I continue to contribute to this legacy for the benefit of future. As a mother of three young Black individuals, I look forward to a future where they can pursue their careers without prejudice and have opportunity to thrive.”
Ola’s life inspiration stems from the values instilled by her parents. The principles of love, kindness, integrity, and a drive for success have shaped her daily life and guide how to navigate her personal growth and career.
“As a mother of three young Black individuals, I look forward to a future where they can pursue their careers without prejudice and have opportunity to thrive.”
Olatundun Esho
“When I reflect on the contributions of Canadian heroes like Dr. Anderson Ruffin Abbott and Bernice Redmon, as well as Oak Valley Health leaders like Carnett Howelle-Belle, Michelle Samm, Funmi Odebode, Dr. Ademilola Oyenubi, and others, I am inspired,” says Ola. “Their accomplishments encourage me and aspiring health care workers to remain focused, pursue excellence, and strive for leadership roles.”
Ola shares commitment to diversity and inclusion initiatives must continue. Establishing conversations, encouraging ongoing learning about diverse cultural, religious, and social backgrounds, and enhancing policies to support diverse communities, help drive change and mark the beginning of meaningful conversations.
Her advice to young Black individuals in the health care sector: Seek mentors, build strong support networks, understand no one is alone on their journey, purse opportunities for growth, and exemplify excellence through patient-centred care.
Curtis Munroe
Curtis Munroe works in stores and receiving as a receiving stores attendant. With a career spanning 18 years in health care, Curtis is inspired by his grandmother, a nurse for 40 years.
Curtis developed a deep passion for helping others, and his journey into health care began when he assisted an elderly man who had fallen unconscious, staying with him until the ambulance arrived. The next day, he was offered a position in the health care sector.
In celebration and reflection of Black History Month, Curtis shares what it means to him personally and professionally.
“Personally I take the time to reflect, educate, and pay homage to those who have paved the way so that I can be where I am today,” says Curtis. “Professionally, it’s great to see how those before my time have helped build, shape, and contributed to health care in general.
“I take the time to reflect, educate, and pay homage to those who have paved the way so that I can be where I am today.”
Curtis Monroe
“The contributions of Black individuals have set a high standard of care. The likes of Patricia Bath, who invented the Laserphaco Probe, improving treatment for cataract patients. Charles Drew developed an innovative way to store blood plasma in blood banks. Dr. Marilyn Hughes Gaston authored ground-breaking studies on the treatment of the sickle cell disease. She also was the first Black woman to direct a Public Health Service Bureau.”
Curtis adds, “I have seen progress over the last decade in regards to equity, diversity, and inclusion with a lot of awareness, programs, and workshops to build stronger unity. We live in one of the worlds most diverse cities. That being said I have seen more equal opportunities for all to learn and grow.”
His advice to young Black individuals is simple: Stay focused, work hard, set goals, and have integrity. This mindset has been crucial to his own journey and continues to guide him today.