Bernadette Atanga, MD
Dr. Bernadette Atanga is a distinguished physician with over thirty years of experience specializing in combined Internal Medicine and Pediatrics in the United States. She is also a sought-after speaker, leadership coach and the author of Beneath the Armor, a compelling book that explores how societal expectations of emotional suppression in men has adversely affected families, workplaces, and communities. In the book, she invites men to embrace a stronger, more authentic version of masculinity- one built on emotional resilience, self-awareness and meaningful connections.
Recognizing emotional health as a critical yet often overlooked factor in leadership and conflict resolution, Dr. Atanga empowers leaders and men, through coaching on emotional mastery and empathetic leadership. Through her L.E.A.D framework, she equips leaders with the tools to navigate stress, process emotions, and foster positive team dynamics, understanding that emotional suppression can undermine leadership effectiveness, workplace culture, and overall well-being. Her global perspective, shaped by years spent in the U.S.A. Italy, Cameroon and Britain, allows her to bridge diverse viewpoints and foster meaningful dialogue. Fluent in five languages, she seamlessly integrates cultural awareness into her coaching and leadership development programs.
Through the Atanga Peace Project, Dr. Atanga spearheaded groundbreaking educational and leadership initiatives in Cameroon, focusing on the root causes of conflict, prevention, emotional health awareness, and empathy-driven leadership. She launched the Family Empowerment Program, encouraging men to embrace vulnerability and take an active role in strengthening their families. Her work has also raised awareness of harmful cultural practices on women and children’s mental health, as well as the effects of untreated mental health conditions on families and communities. From 2008 to 2009, she created and donated Family Matters, an educational radio program which aired weekly on CRTV Cameroon, reaching audiences across Cameroon and neighboring countries.
Due to the overwhelming demand for her coaching—praised as both eye-opening and a novelty in many professional circles—Dr. Atanga expanded her reach by integrating technology into her teaching methods. Recognizing the limitations of frequent travel, she implemented virtual learning workshops, allowing individuals and organizations worldwide to benefit from her expertise in emotional intelligence, leadership, and conflict resolution.
Since 2005, Dr. Atanga has led leadership seminars and workshops for schools, corporate teams, Traditional and Religious Leaders, Government Officials, and community organizations. She has been invited to speak internationally at universities, corporations, healthcare institutions, seminaries and churches, addressing critical issues such as diversity, the root causes of conflict, inclusive and peaceful leadership.
As a speaker, Dr. Atanga has shared stages with American Idol and Broadway star Justin Guarini and also business coach Kim Walsh Phillips. She remains dedicated to transforming communities, leadership, mental health and relationships worldwide through her book, speaking engagements. and transformative programs. She continues to inspire individuals and institutions to foster healthier, more emotionally intelligent environments.