BlackDoctor celebrated the opening of its 11th Annual Top Blacks in Healthcare (TBH) Awards Gala & Thought Leadership Summit with the return of its distinguished Hall of Fame reception at Isla in Washington, DC on April 23. The second annual event reaffirmed BlackDoctor’s commitment to honoring Black excellence and leadership in healthcare with its second class of Hall of Fame inductees — all healthcare industry leaders who have made a lasting impact on their field.
The MC of the night, BlackDoctor’s Chief Marketing Officer Derrick Lane, welcomed the guests and entertained and informed them throughout the reception. After he kicked off the evening, he re-introduced Akinwole “Aki” Garrett, BlackDoctor’s newly-appointed Chief Executive Officer, who welcomed attendees and the esteemed inductees.
In his opening remarks, Garrett explained that a lot of what these leaders do “go unrecognized, but we recognize you.”
He thanked them for opening doors while also investing in the next generation of leaders. He also reinforced BlackDoctor’s mission to use its platform to celebrate excellence, spark meaningful dialogue, and create healthier futures for Black communities.
“Together, with [you,] BlackDoctor and our community, we can continue to fight on the front lines of health equity,” Garrett said.
While guests enjoyed the luxe ambiance, passed appetizers, and signature cocktails, the highlight of the evening was the induction of six distinguished leaders into BlackDoctor’s “Hall of Fame.”
“Tonight is not the end,” Lane said. “It’s the beginning. We are welcoming them into the family.”
The 2026 “Hall of Fame” Inductees are:
Regina Benjamin, MD, MBA – 18th United States Surgeon General
Oliver Tate Brooks, MD, FAAP, FCPP – 120th National Medical Association President
Conrod Kelly – U.S. HIV Business Head, Merck
Ponda Motsepe-Ditshego, MD – Vice President & Head, Inclusive Global Health & Impact, Amgen
Rhonda Peebles, MS – Head of U.S. Dermatology, Union Chimique Belge
Throughout the evening, honorees and guests reflected on the significance of being recognized among peers committed to improving health outcomes and opening pathways for others. Many spoke about the importance of mentorship, collaboration, and using influence to create opportunities that extend beyond titles and individual success. Sponsors and partners also highlighted the value of spaces that bring together leaders across medicine, business, advocacy, and media with a shared purpose.
Each honoree exemplifies leadership in advancing healthcare and expanding possibilities for our communities. Their commitment to impact demonstrates that lasting change is possible when we elevate our voices and stories.
Their acceptance speeches and the ceremonial presentations highlighted their extraordinary achievements and dedication.
Beyond their individual accomplishments, each inductee represents a broader legacy of service and progress. From shaping national health policy and leading medical organizations to advancing innovation within major healthcare companies, their work continues to influence the future of care. Their recognition serves as a reminder to emerging professionals that leadership can take many forms—and that excellence paired with purpose can create generational impact.
The evening concluded with music, festivities, and a sense of unity, reinforcing BlackDoctor’s vision for the future and its commitment to uplifting leaders who shape health and wellness for communities of color. The celebration honored excellence and set the stage for continued inspiration and progress.
Looking ahead, BlackDoctor shared its continued commitment to expanding the TBH platform through year-round storytelling, thought leadership programming, and future initiatives that celebrate those transforming healthcare. As the Hall of Fame grows, so does its role as a lasting symbol of achievement, inspiration, and what is possible for future generations of leaders.
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