Network of Black Male Nurse Leaders
Catalysts for change, excellence, and diversity in healthcare
The Network of Black Male Nurse Leaders (NBMNL) is a national movement advancing representation, equity, and leadership among Black male nurses across the healthcare landscape. We are building a thriving community of visionaries—mentors, educators, clinicians, and advocates dedicated to shaping a more equitable and inclusive future for nursing.
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NBMNL Leadership Summit
Our Story
In November 2023, over lunch at a Cracker Barrel in Wilson, North Carolina, a small group of Black male nurse leaders gathered to share their experiences in a profession where their presence was often rare. That candid conversation—about representation, mentorship, and belonging—sparked a vision for something greater.
From that table, the Network of Black Male Nurse Leaders (NBMNL) was born. What started as an idea to create a simple list of Black male nurse leaders across the country has grown into a national movement uniting hundreds of nurses, educators, and healthcare advocates.
Today, NBMNL stands as a powerful community dedicated to mentorship, leadership development, and advancing equity in healthcare. Our journey is a testament to what happens when connection meets purpose—and when leaders commit to lifting as they climb.
Years of combined leadership experience
Board positions held across national organizations
Mentees guided
Publications and 850+ presentations
What we do
Empowering, Mentoring, and Elevating Black Male Nurses
The Network of Black Male Nurse Leaders (NBMNL) exists to close the gap in representation and opportunity for Black men in nursing. We create pathways for growth, leadership, and belonging through mentorship, education, advocacy, and community.
Every initiative we build is designed to uplift, equip, and connect Black male nurses—turning individual ambition into collective impact.
Mentorship & Leadership Development
We connect emerging nurses with experienced leaders through our Formal Mentorship Scheme, creating intentional relationships that foster confidence, professional growth, and long-term success.
Professional Advancement & Visibility
NBMNL provides access to training, lectures, and leadership opportunities that prepare members to step into decision-making roles across healthcare systems and academia.
Advocacy & Representation
We advocate for equity and inclusion within nursing—ensuring that the voices of Black male nurses are represented in policy, education, and national leadership spaces.
Community & Connection
Through programs like the Brother-to-Brother Distinguished Speaker Series and the Monthly Lecture Series, we build a thriving network of support and shared excellence.
“We started as a conversation among brothers—and became a collective force for change.”
Brother-to-Brother Distinguished Speaker Series
Our Brother-to-Brother Series is a monthly dialogue where Black male nurses share experiences, challenges, and triumphs. Each session features a distinguished speaker who leads an authentic, inspiring conversation on leadership, equity, and professional growth.
Topic Examples:
Occupying Key Spaces: The Need for Black Male Professionals in Federal Service
Mentorship and Representation in Modern Nursing Leadership
Resilience and Identity in Healthcare Leadership
Meet the Founders Leading a Movement
Empowering Black Male Nurses to Lead, Inspire, and Transform Healthcare
The Board of Directors of NBMNL is composed of visionary leaders who guide the organization’s mission to advance representation, equity, and leadership among Black male nurses nationwide.
Together, they provide strategic direction, champion partnerships, and ensure that NBMNL remains a driving force for systemic change.
Events & Programs
NBMNL creates intentional spaces where leadership, mentorship, and brotherhood thrive. Through our events and programs, we amplify voices, build networks, and equip Black male nurses to lead with excellence in every healthcare setting.
From our Brother-to-Brother Distinguished Speaker Series to the National Leadership Symposium, our programs bridge inspiration with actionable growth.
Upcoming Event
Inaugural Leadership Symposium — February 27–28, 2026
The NBMNL Leadership Symposium is a two-day experience uniting nurse executives, educators, and emerging leaders from across the nation. Together, we explore leadership strategies, mentorship frameworks, and actionable pathways to increase representation in healthcare leadership.
Event Highlights:
- Opening Keynote: Our Journey & Purpose — NBMNL Founders
- Leadership Masterclasses: Executive-led sessions on healthcare leadership and DEI strategies.
- Mentorship Roundtables: Direct networking between seasoned and emerging leaders.
- Closing Keynote: Visionary insights from a prominent national nursing leader.