Hometown: Ohimini, Benue State, Nigeria
Current Location: Forsyth, IL
Can you tell us a bit about your background and what inspired you to pursue your current career path?
My background has deeply influenced my career path to clinical medical practice, cancer research, and public health, which was inspired by both personal and community experiences. In the community I grew up in, I witnessed the significant impact of health disparities on it members. Access to quality healthcare was a constant struggle, and these challenges were only intensified when I lost my mother to cancer just before completing high school. Her illness, coupled with the inadequate care she received, ignited in me a desire to become a part and a solution to a healthcare system that could better serve families facing similar hardships.
My background imposed limitations on what I could achieve—restricted access to resources, societal expectations, and a lack of role models in the career path I would later pursue. However, I was determined to build a career in healthcare. Despite the challenges, I graduated from medical school and further solidified my commitment to the field by earning a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree. This blend of clinical training and public health expertise has empowered me to not only treat patients but also improve healthcare systems and advocate for underserved communities.
Building on these experiences and inspired by my mum, I have set out to establish myself in the field of Oncology, aiming to make a meaningful impact. This aspiration has led me to my current role as a Clinical Research Coordinator, where I continue to grow and contribute to advancements in cancer care.
Throughout my journey, my experiences—ranging from childhood exposure to healthcare disparities to hands-on work in underserved areas—shaped my commitment to medicine and fueled my drive to address healthcare inequities. These formative experiences have inspired me to pursue a career where I can make a meaningful difference, not only through direct patient care but also through systemic advocacy and public health initiatives.
Who or what has been your biggest influence or mentor in your journey?
The greatest influence and mentor in my journey has undoubtedly been my mother. As a dedicated community health worker, she devoted her life to advocating for and serving underserved communities. Growing up, I watched her tirelessly support families in need, providing healthcare and education to those who often lacked access to basic services. Her work went beyond treating ailments; it was about empowering people, fostering community resilience, and addressing the broader social determinants of health.
My mother’s unwavering commitment to service and her deep compassion shaped my worldview and ignited my passion for medicine and public health. She taught me that healthcare is not just about treating individuals—it’s about uplifting entire communities and advocating for systemic change. Despite the challenges she faced, she remained steadfast in her mission, inspiring me to stay resilient and persevere through my own obstacles.
Losing her was a devastating moment in my life, but it also reinforced my commitment to continuing the work she started. Her battle with cancer further solidified my focus on oncology, as I witnessed firsthand how patients like her, and so many others, struggled in environments that lacked the necessary resources for early diagnosis and access to specialized care. Her legacy continues to guide me, particularly in my passion for community-centered healthcare and research. Every step of my journey has been shaped by her example of dedication, compassion, and advocacy, and I strive to carry that forward in my own work.
Another significant mentor in my journey is Michelle Dale, my supervisor at the Florida Department of Health (FDOH) during my internship with the National Environmental Health Association's National Environmental Public Health Internship Program (NEPHIP). She provided me with invaluable hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of health disparities in Florida, particularly regarding radon exposure and its associated risks. This experience strengthened my resolve to pursue cancer research with the goal of contributing to efforts that reduce these disparities.
The team at NEPHIP also played a crucial role in my development. They not only provided the opportunity for me to intern with the FDOH but also offered webinars, resources, and travel and educational scholarships. These experiences allowed me to learn from and network with experts in healthcare, helping me refine my vision for my future career path.
Additionally, I am deeply grateful to my professors and colleagues at both the University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) and the University of Jos (Unijos). The faculty and staff at these institutions provided a nurturing environment and created opportunities that have been instrumental in getting me to this point in my journey. Their support and guidance have been invaluable, and I owe much of my growth to their dedication.
What are your goals and aspirations for the future?
My goal is to significantly impact healthcare delivery, particularly in oncology, by leveraging both my clinical expertise and research background. I aspire to contribute to advancements in cancer treatment, improving patient outcomes through innovative therapies, and ensuring that healthcare is accessible to all, especially underserved populations. I plan to continue advancing my knowledge in oncology, with the ultimate aim of rising to the top of my field—whether through leadership roles in clinical research or in a healthcare institution, where I can influence policy and drive systemic improvements. Through ongoing education and collaboration, I hope to make a lasting impact in cancer care, improving both the quality and accessibility of treatments.
What advice would you give to others who are looking to advance and make a difference in their field?
My advice would be to stay resilient and remain focused on your purpose, even when faced with challenges. In any field, there will be obstacles, but it’s important to view them as opportunities to grow and learn. Always seek to expand your knowledge—whether through formal education, hands-on experience, or mentorship. Be proactive in identifying problems and be persistent in finding solutions. Also, never underestimate the power of collaboration. Building strong relationships with peers and mentors can open doors to new perspectives and opportunities. Finally, stay grounded in the core values that inspired you to pursue your field in the first place, and use those values as a compass to guide your journey.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time that helps you stay inspired and motivated?
In my free time, I find that stepping away from the demands of work is crucial for staying inspired and motivated. I enjoy spending quality time with my family, which provides a strong foundation of support and joy. I also love going on runs and exploring nature—these moments of solitude help me recharge and clear my mind. Being outdoors reminds me of the bigger picture and gives me perspective. Additionally, my church community plays a significant role in helping me stay grounded. The encouragement and strength I draw from my family, friends, teachers, and mentors continue to inspire me to keep pushing forward in my professional and personal journey.
Is there anything else you would like to share with us?
One unique aspect of my journey is my deep curiosity and passion for research, particularly in public health and clinical medicine. Beyond my current work in cancer clinical research, I actively seek opportunities to contribute to research projects, even outside my immediate work environment. I believe that advancing healthcare requires not just clinical expertise but also a commitment to finding innovative solutions through research.
Public health research, in particular, intrigues me because it allows me to address healthcare challenges at a systemic level, focusing on prevention, health equity, and improving patient outcomes on a broader scale. Whether it's studying health disparities, exploring better ways to deliver care, or analyzing the impact of public health interventions, I am always eager to be involved.
Ultimately, my drive is not just to practice medicine but to contribute to knowledge that shapes policies and improves lives. I see research as a tool for problem-solving, bridging gaps in healthcare, and ensuring that every patient—regardless of their background—receives the best possible care.