TORONTO, February 17, 2026 – Today the BlackNorth Initiative, in partnership with VHA Home HealthCare, is proud to announce the 2026 recipients of the BlackNorth Initiative and VHA Future Leaders Scholarship, a program that provides $2,000 scholarships to Black students pursuing post secondary education in Canada.

This year’s scholarship recipients are:

• Adesope Ajayi
• Alice Okpere
• Joyce Ojugbeli
• Thélia Badoana

The Future Leaders Scholarship was created to help reduce financial barriers, expand access to post-secondary education, and support the next generation of Black leaders through opportunities for mentorship and community connection.

“Education is one of the most powerful pathways to closing opportunity gaps created by systemic anti-Black racism,” said Dahabo Ahmed Omer, Chief Executive Officer of the BlackNorth Initiative. “This scholarship is a practical investment in Black talent and potential, and it reflects our commitment to building a Canada where Black students can thrive, lead, and shape the future of our economy and communities.”

“VHA Home HealthCare is proud to partner with the BlackNorth Initiative to help remove barriers and expand opportunity for Black students across Canada,” said Dr. Kathryn Nichol, President & Chief Executive Officer of VHA Home HealthCare. “This scholarship supports students at a critical moment in their journey, and it aligns with our belief that stronger communities are built when we invest in education, leadership, and equitable access to opportunity.”

Through this partnership, the BlackNorth Initiative and VHA Home HealthCare aim to support students not only with financial assistance, but also with encouragement and connection to networks that can help accelerate professional growth and leadership development.

The BlackNorth Initiative congratulates the 2026 recipients and thanks VHA Home HealthCare for its continued partnership and commitment to expanding equitable access to education.

About the BlackNorth Initiative

BlackNorth Initiative is on a mission to close the gaps created by systemic anti-Black racism for Black Canadians—a Canada where systemic anti-Black racism does not exist. For more information, visit: https://blacknorth.ca/ and follow us on social media @blacknorthca.

About VHA Home HealthCare

VHA Home HealthCare is a not-for-profit home health care organization providing care and support services that help people live safely and independently at home and in their communities. VHA works with partners across the health system and community to improve access and outcomes for clients and families.

Media contacts