Sylvia Okonofua is a public health professional, researcher, and community leader committed to advancing health equity and improving health outcomes for Black communities. She holds a Master of Public Health in Black Health from the University of Toronto’s Dalla Lana School of Public Health, with a Collaborative Specialization in Global Health.
Sylvia is the Founder of Black Donors Save Lives, a national non-profit addressing racial inequities in blood, stem cell, organ, tissue, and plasma donation through education, community engagement, research, and advocacy. Her work spans public health research, policy, youth engagement, and community-based initiatives, with a particular focus on translating evidence into meaningful and equitable change.
She has contributed to health equity initiatives in Canada and internationally and has been recognized for her leadership and community impact, including receiving the King Charles III Coronation Medal. Sylvia is passionate about strengthening community-informed approaches to health and building systems in which Black communities can thrive.