In a powerful evening of celebration, connection, and inspiration, the 2025 Obsidi® Awards, presented by BMO, shined a light on the leaders redefining what it means to drive impact in tech.
Obsidi® is a job board built for Black tech professionals and allies, connecting talent with employers of choice, community networks, and career-advancing opportunities across North America.
With over 120,000 members, Obsidi® bridges the gap between talent, mentorship, and opportunity through its digital platform and in-person experiences—including the Obsidi® Awards, Tech Talks, and the BFUTR Global Tech Summit.
On September 25, under the theme “Leadership Beyond Limits,” Obsidi® honoured 10 trailblazers who challenged convention, elevated others, and left a lasting mark on the global Black tech ecosystem.
From executives and entrepreneurs to community builders and innovators, the Obsidi® Awards, presented by BMO, celebrated excellence, allyship, and leadership shaping the future of tech.
At the heart of community transformation is Dr. Olutoyin Oyelade, CEO of management strategy firm CasaFoundation, who was named the BMO Black Tech Community Builder of the Year. Known for her tireless work in economic empowerment, mentorship, and entrepreneurship, Oyelade dedicated the award to the community she strives to uplift.
“It feels really great and exciting to win an award,” Oyelade told Now Toronto.
“I reckon that’s also a vote of confidence from the community that we serve. Our work is always about community, and success is usually about the people you impact and not so much of all the things you acquire around you.”
Oyelade acknowledged the support of her husband, colleagues, and Casa Foundation members, emphasizing the power of collective effort in driving meaningful change.
“There’s always a time for everything,” she added. “A time to sow and impact community, a time to share your gifts with others, and a time to reap a reward—like tonight, when you’re recognized for your work.”
Oyelade also shared her excitement to connect with other Black entrepreneurs and changemakers:
“I look forward to engaging with like-minded people doing similar work, connecting with them, and understanding how they can also be a part of our ecosystem.”
Co-chairs of Scotiabank’s Black Employee Network, Anita Anuyah and Sophia Doulaghsingh, were jointly honoured as the Black Employee Resource Group of the Year—a recognition of their passionate leadership, dedication to equity, and the tangible difference their work has made within Scotiabank and beyond.
“It’s a reflection and an acknowledgement of the work that we’ve been doing,” said Doulaghsingh. “There are spaces where we’re not always invited in—and even when we are, we’re not always welcome. So this work is about creating inclusion and belonging.”
“It’s such an amazing experience to be part of this for the third time,” added Anuyah. “I’m really thankful that Obsidi® continues to create this platform to celebrate the achievements and impact of Black professionals.”
2025 Obsidi® Award Winners:
- Sean Thompson, Co-founder & CEO, Psigryph Inc. – BMO Black Entrepreneur of the Year, Tech Industry
- Daphne McRae, Head of AMCB U.S. Technology Solutions Management Office, TD Bank – Black Tech Executive of the Year | Scotiabank
- Tobi Olufintuyi, Senior Marketing Manager, Lifecycle: Prospect and Early Life – Black Marketer of the Year
- Lindiwe Davis, Global Organization Effectiveness Leader, Google – Black Professional Trailblazer of the Year | Sun Life
- Jobbin George, Director, Cyber Crisis Response, RBC – Black Tech Ally of the Year
- Ellie Braham, Project Delivery Practice Leader, IBM – Breakout Professional of the Year, Technology Division | Uber
- Mayka Rosales-Peterson, VP of Marketing, LAVA Technology Services – Black Communications Professional of the Year, Tech Industry
- Ejike Udeze, Lead Cloud Engineer, RBC – Engineer of the Year | Intuit
These visionary leaders represent what Obsidi® stands for: community, excellence, and leadership beyond limits.
Explore career opportunities, connect with top employers, and join a growing network of 120,000-plus Black tech professionals and allies at obsidi.com.
