Afya, meaning health and wellness in Swahili, is a nonprofit focused on improving the health of Black, African, and Caribbean (BAC) communities in Southwestern Ontario through research, advocacy, and culturally relevant programs.

Our Mission

✔️ Build evidence through research.
✔️ Co-design health programs with BAC communities.
✔️ Shape policies that advance equity.
✔️ Advocate for preventive care and early screening.

We work to address health inequities through research, advocacy, and co-designed programs. Our priorities include strengthening primary care access, expanding culturally relevant mental health and addictions supports, promoting digital health equity, and developing chronic disease pathways tailored to BAC communities.

By partnering with community members, health leaders, and organizations, we aim to create a health system that is equitable, culturally safe, and responsive to the lived experiences of BAC populations.

What We Do