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Saturday, February 7, 2026

Black History Month Symposium

The Walnut Foundation returns with its annual Black History Month Symposium, focusing this year on conditions that affect brain health as we age.

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BRAIN POWER FOR LIFE:

Protecting Memory, Mood and Thinking as We Age

Black History Month is a time to reflect on the resilience, contributions, and lived experiences of Black communities. At The Walnut Foundation, we continue our commitment to advancing health equity by addressing critical health issues affecting Black men and families.

Join us for the 2026 Black History Month Symposium, focused on brain health and aging. This year’s conversation explores how memory, mood, and thinking are affected over time and what we can do to protect and strengthen brain health through knowledge, prevention, and lifestyle choices.

Saturday, February 7, 2026

Event Overview

The Walnut Foundation returns with its annual Black History Month Symposium, focusing this year on conditions that affect brain health as we age.

This engaging and informative symposium will explore:

  • Common conditions that impact memory, mood, and cognitive function
  • The connection between brain health, lifestyle, and aging
  • Practical strategies to support long-term brain health

Prevention, early awareness, and advocacy within the Black community

Join us for a powerful day of learning, dialogue, and community connection with expert speakers who will share insights, research, and real-world guidance to help keep your brain power sharp throughout life.

Agenda Highlights
Free registration

Design by FIVELINE Media Production | Creative Conference Services

Symposium Sessions & Conversations

These sessions break down complex topics into clear, relatable conversations, helping you recognize early signs of change, make informed lifestyle choices, and feel more prepared for what lies ahead.

Understanding Your Brain: What it does, early signs of change, and why it matters

Learn how your brain supports memory, mood, and decision-making and how to recognize early signs of change before they become serious concerns. This session helps you understand what is normal, what is not, and when to seek support.

When the Brain Changes: Understanding dementia, stroke, mood, and aging

Hear directly from medical specialists as they break down complex brain conditions in clear, practical language. You’ll learn how these conditions develop, early warning signs to watch for, and what aging really means for brain health.

Keeping Your Mind Strong: Lifestyle choices that support brain health

Discover everyday habits, from nutrition to movement, that can protect and strengthen brain health at any age. Walk away with realistic, evidence-based strategies you can start using immediately.

Planning Ahead for Aging and Caregiving: Legal, financial, and emotional considerations

Gain clarity on planning before health changes occur. This session covers legal tools, financial considerations, and the emotional realities of caregiving, helping you feel more prepared, informed, and confident about the future.

Speakers

Meet our expert speakers, who brought unique insights and experience to help navigate elderly care, health equity, and support for caregivers.

Dr. Joyce C. Okorafor

Geriatric psychiatrist advancing equitable, culturally responsive care for older adults, caregivers, and families navigating dementia, delirium, and complex transitions settings.

Full bio

Dr. Olumide (Emmanuel) Adegunna

Neurology resident advancing brain health equity, stroke care, and cognitive ageing through accessible education and globally informed clinical experience.

Full bio

Ngozi Iroanyah

Health equity leader advancing inclusive dementia policies, access to care, and improved outcomes for racially and culturally diverse seniors and caregivers.

Full bio

Asma Musa

Nutrition researcher and dietitian advancing equitable, prevention-focused strategies linking diet, social determinants, and cognitive health across the life course.

Full bio

Jean Adeyemo

Toronto-based lawyer providing reliable, efficient guidance in family law, real estate transactions, and estate planning tailored to clients’ needs.

Full bio

Loretta Karikari

Registered social worker and psychotherapist supporting caregivers and families with compassionate, evidence-based mental health care across aging, health, and transitions.

Full bio

Olu Muili

Certified life coach and speaker empowering women to navigate caregiving, burnout, and life transitions with balance, purpose, and compassionate self-care.

Full bio

Registration

Join us for a powerful day of learning, dialogue, and community connection with expert speakers who will share insights, research, and real-world guidance to help keep your brain power sharp throughout life.

Attend Virtual
Attend In-person

Black History Month Symposium

Past Editions:

Dive into the impactful discussions and presentations from previous Black History Month Symposiums. Each year celebrated the resilience and achievements of Black communities while addressing pressing issues.

2025 Edition: Navigating the Health Care System to Long Term Care and Beyond

Featuring expert speakers, a lived experience advocate, and physicians specializing in elderly care, this symposium covered essential topics, including transitioning from hospital to long-term care (LTC), the roles of care managers and social workers, patient rights, advocacy, and the cost of care.

 Speakers: