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Through a generous $200,000 gift, FFBC has launched the Black Medical Students Bursary for first year medical students to receive a one time amount of $10,000 which is a national initiative designed to reduce financial barriers for Black learners entering medical school.

This landmark gift will be distributed over four years, providing $50,000 annually, which Dalhousie has committed to matching dollar-for-dollar, bringing the total annual support to $100,000. The bursary is part of a broader national effort, with McGill University and Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) also participating, and Black Physicians of Canada serving as a key partner, helping inform the selection process and ensuring the program reflects the lived experiences and needs of Black medical learners.

Why this bursary matters

FFBC’s Black Medical Student Bursary matters because representation matters. The launch of the Black Medical Students Bursary at Dalhousie comes at a critical time in Canadian health care. Despite comprising 3.5 per cent of the national population, Black Canadians remain underrepresented in medicine, with significant disparities in access to care, health outcomes, and representation among health-care professionals. For example, in Ontario, Black individuals make up 4.7 per cent of the population, but only 2.3 per cent of physicians.

This lack of representation has real consequences. Research shows that patients who are treated by physicians of the same racial background experience better communication, increased trust, and improved health outcomes. Conversely, systemic anti- Black racism in health care contributes to poorer health outcomes, mistrust in medical institutions, and barriers to care. Something Dalhousie is committed to changing.

Aaliyah Arab-Smith, another bursary recipient, echoes the importance of representation and community. Her inspiration to pursue medicine is rooted in family, community, and the desire to make a difference.

Representation builds trust, especially in a system where medical mistrust exists. It also helps students see what’s possible. When you see someone in a field, you can imagine yourself there too. — Aaliyah Arab-Smith

By supporting Black medical students financially, the bursary helps break down barriers to entry and fosters a more inclusive medical workforce. It also sends a powerful message: that Black excellence in medicine is not only possible, but essential.

“Personally, it’s a reminder that the community is behind me on this journey —the same community I hope to serve as a physician,” Nathan shares. “Professionally, it gives me the freedom to concentrate on becoming the best physician I can be, without added financial concerns.”

As Dalhousie and its partners work to build a health-care system that reflects the diversity of Canada, initiatives like this bursary are foundational to that vision.

Impact locally, alignment nationally

Dalhousie’s participation in the FFBC bursary aligns with ongoing inclusive pathway initiatives, such as the Inclusive Pathways to Medical Professions, Promoting Leadership in Health for African Nova Scotians (PLANS), and Indigenous Health supports. This expands our ecosystem of access, support, and community.

The bursary’s structure of financial relief plus mentoring directly addresses real student needs like tuition, books, equipment, living costs, and the ability to engage fully in the academic and community life of medical school without undue financial strain.

There is great power in community and mentorship. In his undergrad, Nathan was one of two Black students in his program, and at times, he felt isolated. But medical school has been a completely different experience with 30 Black medical students in the class of 2029. Through programs like PLANS, the Black Medical Student Association, and the FFBC, there’s also a strong sense of community and opportunity for mentorship.

For Aaliyah, the bursary and the broader network have helped her overcome impostor syndrome and build connections. "It’s about more than just money," she says. "It’s about resources, mentorship, and connections that help us navigate underrepresented spaces."

“The bursary reinforces that sense of belonging,” agrees Nathan. “It’s not just financial support; it’s tangible community support."

Looking ahead, Nathan’s ambitions are rooted in advocacy and giving back. His ultimate goal is to practice medicine in Nova Scotia and advocate for equitable health care, particularly for the African Nova Scotian community.

Giving back isn’t just my hope, it’s part of the reason I started this journey. I want to help address health disparities and restore trust within the health-care system. — Nathan Barton