Mohamed Ahmed is a first-generation Somali college student studying Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience for a Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology. He loves cardiovascular research and wants to fight heart disease in Somalia’s underserved areas. Despite financial hardships, Mohamed gained healthcare experience as a medical scribe and pharmacy technician. He is driven to improve healthcare access and outcomes because of his grandmother’s heart disease.

Morgan Berry is an outstanding high school senior with a 4.0 GPA who will study health sciences at Spelman College before attending medical school. As an Afro-Latina, Morgan wants to reduce maternal health disparities and diversify medicine. Morgan champions education and equity by mentoring youth, teaching violin, and co-leading her school’s Black Student Union. She wants to become a doctor and improve healthcare for all.

Tia Harris, certified nursing assistant, is pursuing her master’s degree in Physician Assistant (PA) Studies master’s and focuses on culturally competent healthcare. She saw firsthand how a lack of diverse medical professionals affects patient care while growing up in an underserved community. She dedicated herself to mentoring pre-PA students and volunteering with Toys for Tots and the Epworth Foundation to close that gap. Tia wants to increase healthcare representation and make patients feel heard.

Shiria Hicks, a high school senior and certified nursing assistant, is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She is determined to provide compassionate care to low-income patients despite personal hardships. Shiria has tutored Black students and helped people facing housing issues. Her experiences motivate her to promote healthcare accessibility and inspire future Black nurses.

Oluchukwu Okwu, a first-generation Nigerian-American registered nurse, is pursuing a Master of Science in nursing at UCSF to become a family nurse practitioner. Oluchukwu has led community health assessments and blood donation drives to promote health equity in underserved communities. She advocates for policy changes, mentors healthcare professionals, and expands access to quality care.