IMPACT REPORT 2020
A YEAR IN COLOUR
"THE COVID PANDEMIC ILLUMINATED THAT HARDWORKING AND SELFLESS HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS ARE REALLY THE BACKBONE OF THE NHS AND ALTHOUGH WORKING UNDER SUCH PRESSURED CONDITIONS WAS TERRIFYING, I TAKE PRIDE IN MY CONTRIBUTORY ROLE IN PROVIDING MEDICAL CARE TO NATION WHEN IT COUNTED THE MOST." ~ Frontline Doctor We are honoured to dedicate this years impact report to the frontline workers.
2
3
CHIEF EXECUTIVE STATEMENT
SEEING OUR WORLD IN COLOUR
Traditionally the end of the year
The unendurable manifestations
serves as a time to reflect, to
of racial inequality in our society.
celebrate successes and to be
Now, more than ever before, we
intentional about the year that is
have recognised the need for
to come. However I recognise
both change and togetherness.
that these acts might not come with such ease this year. It goes
This year I have learned that our
without saying that 2020 has
work is imperative. We must
been
many.
continue to redefine what it
Despite loss and disappointment,
means to be a Black African or
I have been encouraged by the
Caribbean doctor and medical
determination of so many to
student in the United Kingdom.
keep
demonstrate
We must push to continually
kindness at every opportunity
support individuals who have
and
been negatively impacted by
challenging
going; to
cling
to
for
onto
goodness
wherever it might present itself.
racial inequality in medicine. We must advocate for the medical
This year, we have been fully
profession to be a place where
exposed to the state of the world
the black doctor and medical
we live in. For the first time, we
student can thrive without fear
have seen our world in colour.
of
The intense pressures in which
Through it all, I remain hopeful.
discriminatory
treatment.
our healthcare system has been forced to endure. The damning
This has been a pivotal year for
reality of the pandemic and the
Melanin
tragedies that have followed.
disruptions, changes and
4
Medics.
With
many
"From a year ago today, you have come a long way. Every step you have taken matters more than you know." Morgan Harper Nichols
sacrifices,
this
birthed
We end this year stronger than
innovation. As we celebrated 3
we started. We are grateful to
years of our organisation, this
know that our position places us
year Melanin Medics garnered
to impact many more people than
more support than ever before.
we could have hoped. We have
With a world spotlight on racial
not done this alone and we know
inequality, we stood firmly in our
that we cannot continue to do it
mission to promote diversity in
alone. We extend our heartfelt
medicine, widen aspirations and
thanks
aid
support.
career
Africans
year
progression
and
Caribbeans
for
to
you
all
for
in
medicine. In 2020, we transitioned to virtual events and increase
in
our
saw an reach.
We
obtained our charity status and expanded our team. We formally launched
our
With gratitude,
equality
Olamide Dada Founder & Chief Executive
and
diversity workshops and have delivered a number of sessions to students
in
medical
schools
across the UK. Our social media reach more than doubled, we saw great growth in our Network members annual
and
Black
launched History
our
Month
essay competition. 5
your
Supporting the individual. Influencing their environment.
6
CONTENTS INTRODUCTION Chief Executive statement
4
About us
8
Our values
9
Our why
10
Our strategy
12
THE YEAR AT A GLANCE Our 2020 highlights
14
Our year in numbers
15
Our COVID-19 response
16
IMPACT AREAS Our events
20
Our programmes: Envision Med
22
Programme Our programmes: Enrichment
24
Programme Our research network
26
IMPACT INSIGHTS Our advocacy
28
Our wider works
30
Impact stories
32
Fundraising
42
LOOKING AHEAD The future
44
7
ABOUT US
We are Melanin Medics. A supportive network for Africans and Caribbeans in medicine. A leading voice in the national conversation on promoting diversity in medicine and widening participation. An advocate for racial equality in medicine.
OUR MISSION IS TO
Melanin Medics is a registered
PROMOTE DIVERSITY IN
charity and home to the UK's
MEDICINE, WIDEN
largest intergenerational network for current and future African and
ASPIRATIONS AND AID
Caribbean doctors. As a registered
CAREER PROGRESSION
charity,
THROUGH EDUCATIONAL
we
are
focused
on
implementing positive solutions to overcome
racial
and
socio-
PROGRAMMES, SOCIAL
economic barriers in Medicine by
EMPOWERMENT AND
promoting diversity in Medicine,
VALUABLE RESOURCES Melanin Medic's vision is to create a future where diversity in Medicine thrives and every person is able to fulfil their maximum potential irrespective of their race and socioeconomic background.
widening
aspirations
&
aiding
career progression. By promoting an environment in which diversity in medicine thrives, our current and future medical workforce are able to be their authentic selves in an environment that
truly
values
supports their
them
and
contributions,
positively impacting patient care and medicine as a profession.
8
OUR VALUES
We are accountable to the people
INTEGRITY
and partners we humbly serve, transparently sharing our activities, results, and developments.
Community is at the very core of what we do. Our work is made
COMMUNITY
possible through the contributions of several volunteers, partners and supporters.
We focus on serving those around us who are in need, and utilising our
CHARITY
resources to support individuals on their career development and personal development journeys.
Since our establishment, we have been committed to fulfilling our aim
COMMITMENT
of promoting diversity in medicine and working towards the actualisation of our vision.
We focus on implementing innovative and practical solutions
EXCELLENCE
to a high standard to maximise our impact and bring about necessary change.
9
OUR WHY
For
black
Africans
Caribbeans, journey
their
can
significantly
to
and
career in Medicine, we have
medicine
identified barriers that Black
differ
quite
Africans and Caribbeans face in
their
white
the form of insight and exposure,
counterparts. The challenges can
access
manifest themselves from an
identity
early
negative
undergraduate and postgraduate
experiences of the education
training, environmental support,
system, through medical training
career development and access
and even while practising as
to opportunities.
age
in
their
to and
higher
education,
performance
in
doctors. When considering a
Ethnic minority students Aspiring medics have been
are more likely to
Black Caribbean children
found to face barriers such
experience feelings of
are three and a half times
as access to work
impostor syndrome.
more likely to be excluded
experience, lack of social
than all other children at
support and lack of school
Differential attainment in
primary and secondary
support.
undergraduate
school.
examination outcomes
PRIMARY SCHOOL
SECONDARY/ SIXTH FORM
MEDICAL SCHOOL
Insight and exposure
Access
Identity and performance
10
Less representation of
A higher percentage of junior doctors are from Black groups compared with senior doctors." Black doctors experience slower career progression and are less likely to benefit from social
Differential attainment in
Black Africans and
postgraduate examination
Caribbeans within senior
outcomes.
leadership in the NHS and within senior faculty in
Black NHS staff report the
medical education.
highest incidence of bullying & harassment from their colleagues and leaders.
support.
FOUNDATION YEARS
SPECIALTY TRAINING
LEADERSHIP
Supportive environment
Development
Opportunity
11
OUR VISION OUR MISSION WHAT WE DELIVER AT MELANIN MEDICS
We envision a future where diversity in Medicine thrives and every person is able to fulfil their maximum potential irrespective of their race and socioeconomic background.
Promoting diversity in Medicine
Widening aspirations
Allyship & Advocacy 'EDI' Workshops
Envision Med Programme
Supportive environment
Access
Development
Research Network
Aspiring Medic Support Services
Enrichment Programme
Opportunity
Access
Identity and Performance
Public Engagements & Advocacy
School Outreach
Wider Networks
Supportive environment
Insight and Exposure
Supportive environment
12
Aiding career progression
Educational Events and Workshops
13
OUR 2020 HIGHLIGHTS Increase in funding
6
7
1
through donations and grants
Launched our essay competition
Obtained registered charity status Developed the
8 2
4
5
Programme
Growth of our networks
9
3
Envision Med
Expansion of our leadership team
Developed our EDI workshops
Increased our social media reach 14
Launched the Mind Us Project
OUR YEAR IN NUMBERS
270
267
560
408
aspiring medics supported
doctors in our network
workshop attendees
medical students in our network
171
664
volunteers supported our activities
event attendees
19450 12030 unique site visitors
combined social media following
15
OUR COVID-19 RESPONSE
Caring for our black current and future medical workforce. The impact of COVID-19 on the mental wellbeing of Black African and Caribbean medical students and doctors is of great concern.
The year 2020 was a pivotal year.
of systemic racism on health
The
pandemic
inequalities, we believe there is
transformed life as we know it
great need for BAME medical
and
of
students
in
supported during this time.
COVID-19 triggered
adaptation
a
and
period
innovation
and
doctors
to
be
order to meet the growing needs of those we serve.
For many, the Black Lives Matter movement, which coincided with
The unprecedented impact of COVID-19 on medical education, Black
African
and
Caribbean
community groups and mental wellbeing
of
both
medical
the
COVID-19
pandemic,
triggered a flurry of negative emotions
and
previous
experiences of racism that they had
encountered
on
their
students and doctors is of great
medical journeys resurfaced. As
concern.
the
an organisation committed to
of
promoting diversity in Medicine,
COVID-19 on ethnic minority
taking a clear stand against racial
communities and the recognition
inequality during this time was
disproportionate
With impact
16
paramount. Whilst this had been
To support the mental wellbeing
a
core
element
organisational our
of
our
of Black African and Caribbean
activities
since
medical students and doctors
were
who
establishment,
committed
to
we
extended
this
have
been
adversely
affected by COVID-19.
message to as wide an audience
To provide access to supportive
as possible.
therapy services to those who have been personally affected
We also developed the Mind Us
by COVID-19.
Project, a series of initiatives
To
focused on supporting the mental
COVID-19
wellbeing of Black African and
progression by increasing the
Caribbean medical students and
awareness of opportunities and
doctors. We were pleased to gain
activities for academic success.
the
To
support
Medical
of
the
Association
British for
this
project. The project aims to:
decrease
develop
professional
the
impact
on
of
career
long-lasting relations
and
increase social support.
86%
In a survey conducted in June 2020 by Melanin Medics exploring the wellbeing of 152 African and
of respondents
Caribbean medical students facing
experienced a felt that
the COVID-19 pandemic, the
COVID-19 had
findings revealed that:
impacted their mental wellbeing.
60%
86%
of respondents were
of respondents were
concerned that
concerned that
COVID-19
racial bias would
would affect their
affect their career
career progression.
progression.
17
The Enrichment Programme is a fully
Through the education component of
funded
programme
the project, we will be delivering a
designed to help final year medical
series of educational webinars and
students succeed. Participants are
wellbeing webinars in order to help
carefully matched with a mentor,
reduce
career-related
anxiety,
receive guided information through
support
wellbeing
provide
educational career webinars and
practical career guidance and support
receive access to supportive therapy
for medical students and doctors.
development
and
through the Wellbeing Fund.
Through the Wellbeing Fund, we will
From our partners, to programme
provide FREE culturally competent
participants, Mind Us mentors, Mind
mental wellbeing support to medical
Us Educators and Wellbeing Fund
students and doctors from a Black
beneficiaries, the Mind Us Community
African or Caribbean background,
emphasises that we all have a part to
including
race
play in actively advocating for the
heritage who have been adversely
betterment of the mental wellbeing of
impacted by COVID-19. This will
our future and current workforce from
consist of a single online supportive
ethnic minority backgrounds.
those
of
mixed
therapy session. 18
OUR EVENTS
We delivered 7 online events to more than 600 attendees, including doctors, medical students and aspiring medics.
MEDICAL
CAREER
AS A MEDIC
EMERGENCIES
BREAKS SYMPOSIUM
" It was great to refresh my
100% of participants
"So grateful for this invaluable
outlook on how to create
agreed/strongly agreed
resource. Great to hear voices I
and maintain a great
that the event met their
can more closely identify with
LinkedIn profile as a medic.
expectations. 100% of
when navigating the medical
I learnt, also, how to create
participants found the
world as a professional. Feeling
an organisational LinkedIn
session useful. 98% of
more confident to take a career
profile, which will
participants were very
break now after hearing the
definitely be useful in the
satisfied/completely
variety of experiences. "
future."
satisfied with the event
20
MEDICAL
MIND US
PREPARING
THE PSA
SCHOOL
PROJECT
FOR THE SJT
CRASH
INSIGHTS
LAUNCH
"I enjoyed the variety of
We explored the impact of
"Excellent webinar with a
"A Brilliant resource that I
speakers, it was very
COVID-19 on mental
friendly, approachable
will definitely refer back
insightful to hear from
health and wellbeing in
presenter. Great
to! Thank you so much for
Black Medical students
higher education and
interactive polls which
taking the time to put it all
who have all had different
medicine. We were
aided learning. I'm sure
together. Also it really does
pathways into Medicine. I
delighted to be joined by
this event and others alike
make a positive difference
haven't come across any
two highly acclaimed guest
will be extremely beneficial
hearing from people that
other events like this, so
speakers: Joy Warmington
for the students enrolled
look like me talk about
i'm very grateful that I had
MBE and Professor Dinesh
on the Mind Us Enrichment
such content- inspiring!"
the opportunity to attend."
Bhugra CBE.
programme!"
COURSE
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OUR PROGRAMMES: ENVISION MED
We launched a 15-month programme designed for year 12 students of Black African and Caribbean heritage, including students of mixed race heritage who have aspirations to study Medicine in the UK. At Melanin Medics, we have always
institutions. (2) A lack of information
supported our large network of
and resources available about the
over
in
range of options surrounding UK
securing a place at Medical School
Medical Schools (3) A shortage of
since 2018. With our breadth of
opportunities
experience engaging with aspiring
engage with the wider science and
medics along with a success rate of
academic aspects of medicine
300
aspiring
medics
to
interactively
90% of helping students secure a place at medical school, we have decided
that
we
are
well
This pilot programme will start with 25
Year
12
UK
students,
positioned to make an even bigger
incorporating a combination of one-
impact and launch the Envision
to-one mentoring sessions, super-
Med Programme.
curricular academic seminars, softskills training sessions, application
The Envision Med Programme was
guidance
launched as a free pilot programme
events/workshops
to
experience.
specifically
address
the
and
support, and
work
challenges that Black African and Caribbean
students
face
when
We
are
delighted
that
the
applying to Medical School. It has
programme is being supported by
been designed to tackle three main
Lucy
barriers: (1) Low levels of ongoing
University of Cambridge and Medic
support or mentoring for aspiring
Mind.
Cavendish
medical students applying to top
22
College
at
the
In
order
to
better
understand
the
challenges aspiring medics of African and
40% 42%
Caribbean descent face in their journey to Medicine., we conducted a survey issued to our aspiring medics network.
of respondents
of respondents
experienced a lack
experienced a lack
of school support
of social support/ mentorship
31% 42% 84%
of respondents attended state schools
of respondents
of respondents did
experienced a lack
not know any
of parental support/
medical students or
knowledge
doctors
67% 20% 44% of respondents
of respondents
experienced a lack
experienced a lack
of access to work
of exposure to
experience
university insight
opportunities
activities
36% 15% of respondents
of respondents
experienced
experienced a lack
challenges with
of knowledge on the
individual academic
Medicine
performance
application pathway 23
of respondents had considered applying to Oxford or Cambridge to study Medicine
OUR PROGRAMMES: ENRICHMENT PROGRAMME
Helping Black African and Caribbean final year medical students navigate their last year of medical school and thrive in the next phase of their life as doctors through tailored learning activities, wellbeing support and mentorship.
The
Mind
Us
Programme
is
development
a
Enrichment
on
12
development,
month
programme
identification,
self-
resilience
and
for
maturation leading up to the
Black African and Caribbean final
transition into working life as a
year
doctor.
medical
focuses
students
on
advancement,
which
educational professional
The students are mentored by
development alongside wellbeing
doctors in order to provide social
support.
support. During the course of the Enrichment
Programme,
The activities are designed to
participants will have access to a
help Black African and Caribbean
mandatory teaching programme
final
students
composed
of
year
webinars
and
year
navigate
medical
their
last
of
educational wellbeing
medical school and help them
webinars. We also provide 3 free
thrive in the next phase of their
supportive
life
which are supplemented by a
as
doctors.
The
various
strands of the programme focus
therapy
sessions
range of resources to support their mental wellbeing. 24
RESEARCH NETWORK
Improving research engagement and attainment amongst medical students and doctors of African and Caribbean heritage to increase black representation in medical research and improve patient outcomes
Research
forms
an
essential
and Caribbean heritage. Not only
component of medicine in order
would
to
representation
understand
realities
and
advancements. ensure
that
present enable We
day future
this
increase in
black medical
research, it could also improve
want
to
patient
opportunities
to
those from deprived populations
participate in research are made
outcomes,
including
and ethnic minorities.
available to all, irrespective of their race or background. In
Through the Research Network,
order to combat unequal access
we will endeavour to facilitate
to research opportunities that
collaborative
presently exist, in 2021 we will
research participation for all,
be launching the Melanin Medics
develop
Research Network. The goal of
members through workshops and
this
seminars as well as provide
network
research attainment
is
to
improve
engagement amongst
and medical
students and doctors of African
studies,
research
information
on
enable
skills
for
research
opportunities, prizes and grants for members.
26
OUR ADVOCACY
We held 8 equality, diversity and inclusion workshops to more than 560 attendees, including doctors and medical students from diverse backgrounds.
We
believe
African
and
schools, health organisations and
Caribbean medics are most likely
NHS
to thrive when their colleagues,
functions as a representative body
employers
and
liaising with key stakeholders such
understand
their
educational
institutions
community
The
charity
also
and
as the British Medical Association
know
and General Medical Council in
how to support them to help
order to promote diversity in
them thrive in higher education.
Medicine.
We
By promoting an environment in
tackle
Equality workshops Advocacy'
this
needs,
trusts.
through
and on to
our
Diversity 'Allyship
enable
which
diversity
in
medicine
and
thrives, our current and future
medical
medical workforce are able to be
students and doctors to better
their
understand
environment that truly supports
and
support
authentic and
selves
an
colleagues and patients from
them
diverse backgrounds. We deliver
contributions, positively impacting
our workshops to UK medical
patient care and medicine as a profession.
28
values
in
their
29
OUR WIDER WORK
Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced. James Baldwin Throughout the year, we have
release
had a number of engagements
harassment charter for medical
and worked with many different
schools which we contributed to
organisations. As one of our core
as a stakeholder group. We also
missions is to promote diversity
had a series of press engagement
in Medicine, we recognise the
highlighting
importance
and
COVID-19 on black and ethnic
engaging with other groups to
minority healthcare workers and
further our cause and bring to
communities.
light
resurgence of the Black Lives
the
of
working
issues
affecting
our
currently target
demographic.
of
Matter
the
the
BMA
Racial
impact
Following
movement,
of
the we
contributed to a BIMA webinar focused on 'Racism in Medicine'.
The nature of our engagements
We were delighted to hold a HLA
greatly
Live
varied
and
included
discussion
focused
on
delivering a workshop at the
African and Caribbean Influences
2020
on the NHS in partnership with
Forum
BMA
Junior
Members
Conference.
Melanin
the
Healthcare
Medics was also featured in the
Academy.
British Medical Journal 'Racism
participated on a number of
in Medicine' special edition. Our
panel discussions and as event
Director of Programmes, Khadija
speakers for a series of different
Owusu featured on Channel 5
events.
News discussing discrimination in Medical Schools following the
30
Our
Leadership team
also
31
IMPACT STORIES: RUTH'S JOURNEY
"I did not want to live in my later years with regret of ‘what ifs,’ I therefore made the adamant decision to make a career U-turn; to re-pursue medicine. Thus, whilst working I applied again and yet again, I got more rejections. I did not give up, I applied again. This time with a new approach, and that involved Melanin Medics. It
has
been
untraditional
a
very
long,
I
received
4
into
rejections in my first attempt
medicine. I have not always
into medicine. s my A-levels were
wanted to be a medical doctor;
still good for university I went on
throughout my school days I
to complete an undergraduate
switched
degree, then a masters. Despite
career
journey
Consequently,
between
possible
professions
like
the
excelling in my science degrees,
seasons. From initially wanting
medicine was still on my mind
to be an artist at one end of the
throughout
spectrum to a doctor at the other
years, and in the mist of those
end; hashtag the struggle of
years I applied again, and again
being the jack of all trades. It was
got a rejection. decided to get
not until my sixth form years that
into
I was set in my pursuit for
medicine and worked for an
medicine, and it just so happened
American
that I was taking the right pre-
organisation
requisite
by
worked in the NHS. It was during
not
these years, that I came to the
achieve all the A-level grades
full realisation that my passion
required to get into medical
for medical practice superseded
school.
my interest in research.
chance.
A-level However,
subjects I
did
the
32
those
university
research contract and
side
of
research then
later
Ruth Omenyo MEDICAL STUDENT (FORMER ASPIRING MEDIC) It was so encouraging to get support from African-Caribbean medics and doctors, in a field with underrepresentation. It gave me an extra boost of hope and inspiration ‘that I can make it too,’ this is the power that representation holds. With Melanin Medics’ help I was able to reflect, study some more, practice and perform my best on the interview days, gaining me a place at each medical school I interviewed at! I was spoilt for choice. 33
IMPACT STORIES: KORIANNE'S JOURNEY
My journey although 10 years in the making and not how I had initially imagined has shaped me into who I am and confirmed that this was the path for me. My journey to medicine has been
Nano-medicine, worked in medical
one
bumps.
communications and as a HCA and
Retrospectively I am grateful for
developed an interest for digital
each and every one. I always knew I
marketing. By my fourth round of
wanted to do medicine and as a
application I was weary. Despite
keen 16 year old researched all my
this I decided to change my strategy
options to get in. However, my
and include undergraduate degrees
teacher told me right there and then
and sit the BMAT. I had also decided
that I’d never get into medicine. I
that this was the final time I was
was quite distraught but decided to
applying for medicine. If I didn’t get
just take the longer route and apply
in this time I was going to find
for a science based BSc with the
another career path. As fate would
intention of getting in via graduate
have it this was the year I got my
entry. These dreams were also
first and only interview and it was at
crushed on A-level results day as I
a university I found out about a
didn’t get into my firm or insurance
night before the UCAS deadline. I
choice. After countless calls and
had my mock MMI with Melanin
queries
science
Medics the day before my interview
foundation year at UWE, which was
and 3 weeks after my interview an
a big turning point as I rebuilt my
offer to study at KMMS. I don’t
confidence in my abilities and ended
think words can accurately depict
up studying Medical Science &
how I felt when I received that
Humanities at my original insurance
unconditional offer and how I’ve felt
choice,
since. The ultimate cherry on the
with
I
got
many
onto
Swansea
a
University.
I
applied for medicine during my
top
undergrad
an
scholarship that covers my fees for
interview, this happened two more
the first 4 years of my study and as
times. In between my application
a
cycles I completed an MSc in
changing.
but
didn’t
get
was
graduate
34
being
this
awarded
has
been
a
life
Korianne Muya MEDICAL STUDENT (FORMER ASPIRING MEDIC) I first engaged with Melanin Medics service in 2018, with a personal statement review. The review was very helpful as it helped me to identify areas that I need to be more specific with why I wanted to do medicine and how my experiences make me suitable. It was especially helpful because it was reviewed by people who have successfully made it into medical school. I didn’t personally know any doctors or medical students so it offered an insight I didn’t have. In my most recent cycle of applications, I booked the mock MMI service and that was so helpful in calming my nerves, providing direction and practical tips on how to navigate on the day itself. 35
IMPACT STORIES: GEORGIA'S JOURNEY
Over the three years applying I had so many highs and lows and connecting with an organisation that inspires you to believe in yourself, even on days where you feel like you can’t make the dream a reality was key to me continuing to pursue medicine. My journey to medicine wasn’t a
health and at a specialist HIV hospital,
traditional one. In fact, it wasn’t until
I also worked as a research assistant
I was doing my masters degree that I
in
discovered graduate entry medicine
minority experience of living with
and decided it was something I
severe mental illness. Two years later
should pursue. After finishing my A-
I found myself with one interview for
levels I went to study Psychology at
Warwick Medical School. I’d applied
Goldsmith’s University of London, I
three years in a row to different
wasn’t sure what I wanted to do with
universities
my degree but I enjoyed the subject
medicine, in that time I received just
and wasn’t motivated to learn more.
one interview and one offer.
research
looking
for
into
ethnic
graduate
entry
Following this I studied Cultural and Global
Mental
I am currently in my first year at the
Healthcare at Bart’s and the London
University of Warwick, I am also
School of Medicine and Dentistry. It
working with Lewisham Council and
was at this time that I was having a
Birmingham
conversation with someone about
research
what I would do if I could start my
inequalities in African and Caribbean
university journey again. I admitted
communities in the UK. As well as this
that
in
I make time to post on Instagram
studying medicine but it was never
(medic_reads) and I have a website
mentioned as a possibility for me, it
where
wasn’t a career I ever learned about
supporting the decolonisation of the
and I had no medics in my family.
medical curriculum, something I am
During
very passionate about.
I
Perspectives
had
my
been
in
interested
masters,
I
began
volunteering in community mental 36
I
City
Council
project
into
publish
a
on
a
health
reading
list
Georgia Webster MEDICAL STUDENT (FORMER ASPIRING MEDIC) Melanin Medics was instrumental in my journey, I made use of their personal statement reviewing and also attended an event at the University of Birmingham. I am still in touch now with people I met at the event and found the whole day to be incredibly motivating and inspiring as an applicant at the time. Having an organisation available to me that provided so much advice and support as an aspiring medic was vital to getting me through the application process. Over the three years applying I had so many highs and lows and connecting with an organisation that inspires you to believe in yourself, even on days where you feel like you can’t make the dream a reality was key to me continuing to pursue medicine. 37
IMPACT STORIES: JOSEPHINE'S JOURNEY
I have continued to engage with Melanin Medics as I have found the tutorials, webinars, and all sessions invaluable. They often provide further assistance, and in other circumstances provide salient information not routinely covered within the curriculum.
My involvement with Melanin
With
Medics has provided noteworthy
aspirations, I hope to be an
information
Obstetrician
with
each
regards
to
future
Gynaecologist
in
engagement. I had previously
the future. I would very much
attended some webinars and
love to work outside the United
talks, most notably the talk this
Kingdom
summer
Breaks
knowledge and management of
years,
Women's Health, especially in
on
Symposium
Career e,g,
F3
placements abroad (which was
to
improve
the
developing countries.
eye opening and has gone a long way to inform future practice,
I
would
broadening my horizons).
towards
also
love
(with
the
to
work
help
of
organisations such as Melanin I signed up for the Enrichment
Medics) and see a diversified
programme which was aimed at
workforce
final
students.
African and Carribean doctors,
Unbeknownst to me, it is proving
continuing to support the health
to be one of the best support
needs of our equally diverse
systems thus far in my final year..
population.
year
medical
38
with
more
Black
Josephine Acheampong FINAL YEAR MEDICAL STUDENT I signed up for the Enrichment programme which was aimed at final year medical students. Melanin Medics were looking to support the wellbeing of Black African and Carribean medical students and doctors especially considering the impact of COVID 19. I applied to the programme on the last day, relatively close to the deadline. Unbeknownst to me, it is proving to be one of the best support systems thus far in my final year. The mentorship scheme is fantastic. The match with my mentor was almost identical. They are a current working professional within my chosen area of interest, hence provide relevant advice pertaining to my current stage, but also beyond, in the future when looking to apply. 39
IMPACT STORIES: MARILYN'S JOURNEY
I hope that my involvement in Melanin Medics can help change that for the future generations and help equip them for the obstacles they may face but encourage them to never give up chasing their dreams.
I
have
been
with
I hope to continue to grow as
melanin medics since 2018 I
anaesthetist and hopefully an
began
intensivist
with
involved the
mentorship
whilst
developing
programme mentoring an A-level
myself as a medical educator. I
student who is now studying
hope
medicine at UCL. I have also
health will only grow stronger
participated
and that I will continue to devote
in
events
as
a
my
portion
passion
of
global
speaker at the Doctors and
a
Dentists Q&A event in August
charitable work in Africa . I hope
2019 and our Career Breaks
to
Symposium in June 2020. In
Melanin Medics and investing in
addition I have also written a
a future of black excellence.
continue
blog article detailing my career journey and experiences as a trainee anaesthetist.
40
my
for
time
working
to with
Dr Marilyn Boampomaa ANAESTHETIC DOCTOR I got involved in melanin medics as I wanted to reach aspiring medics and those beginning their medical careers. Offering mentorship, advice, encouragement and a platform to share my story in the hope it would inspire others. During my journey in medical school remember looking up to the the black students I. The years above me and often going to them for advice, but I still felt lost navigating the world of medicine as a black student and later on as a black doctor. 41
FUNDRAISING
Giving is not just about making a donation, it's about making a difference. We received £4,203 in charitable donations!
We would like to thank our
target) over 2 weeks with 97
individual donors as well as
participants and 147 supporters
groups who chose to fundraise
and raised an incredible £2277
for our charity over the course of
for our charity through their
the year.
fundraiser!
We'd like to acknowledge the
Medical
incredible
the
University of Edinburgh Medical
of
School FYC 2022 society also
Edinburgh Medical School FYC
chose to fundraise for Melanin
2025
Medics and raised £232!
students
efforts of
society.
from
University The
students
students
from
the
aimed to walk, cycle, and run 2025km each week for 2 weeks
We would also like to thank
(4050km
a
Scalpel,
the
donation goal of £2025, as the
surgical
society
students will be graduating in
University of Manchester for
2025. As a year group, the
their donation of £500 to our
students managed to cover a
charity.
in
total),
with
massive total of 5606.3km (just over 1500km more than our
42
undergraduate for
the
DONORS Jemima Soladoye
Jasmine Hughes
Rebecca Thom
Wezi Sendama
Jennifer Panatti
Janet Rodriquez
Tara Abdi
Ella Wooding
Katie Bowen
Alexandra Stoian
Brigid Morris Colton
Christine Muhota
Laura Gilbert
Bryony Hopkinshaw
Ahmad Abu-Arafeh
Lauren Savill
Edwin Eshun
Beth Chapman
Sally Brett
Yama Paradis
Yama Paradis
Joseph Petersen-Camp
Ellen Peters
Danielle Osei Boateng
Matt Robertshaw
Steve Kitchen
Freya Donaldson
Rosaleen Baruah
Olusina Olubowale
Ioan Wardhaugh
Hannah Rickman
Aisha Bello
Ellie Walder
Innocent Ogunmwonyi
Filip Gawecki
Kat Tolfree
Alessia Tarantino
43
WHAT'S AHEAD
We leave 2020 with a renewed desire for change and a commitment to positively redefine what it means to be Black Africans and Caribbeans in Medicine.
Although it has been a whirlwind
by our Networks of doctors,
of a year, we are very proud of
medical students and aspiring
our
are
medics to enable us to focus our
determined to strengthen the
efforts where they are needed
programmes that we have in
the most. We are committed to
place.
Med
ensuring that our programmes
Enrichment
and activities are sustainable and
2020
outputs
Our
and
Envision
programme
and
programme
are
centred
on
providing mentorship and social
look forward to strengthening our financial strategy.
support. Our Research Network is
focused
attainment academic
on
improving
Melanin Medics will continue to
and
providing
keep those that we serve at the
opportunities
for
career development.
centre of all we do. We are increasingly driven to find more ways to amplify the work and
Over the next year, we will focus
voices of the incredible people
on our long-term strategic plan
we represent and support and
from 2021. We will use our
give
experiences thus far to inform
distribution of resources. We are
the future we aspire towards for
very grateful for those who
our
organisation.
determined
to
tap
back
to
them
through
We
are
support our work and we are set
into
the
on ensuring that Melanin Medics
wealth of lived-experience held
is around for years to come.
44
OUR TEAM
Olamide Dada Founder & Chief Executive
Dr Ife Akano-Williams Director of Communications
Dr Nadia Ibrahim Director of Events
Khadija Owusu Director of Programmes
Dammie Olubowale Grants & Partnerships Manager
Sope Ashaye Strategy Manager
Ayomide Ayorinde Education & Training Officer
Timothy Adelani Outreach Manager
Oluranti Kuti Secretary
Dr David Faluyi Academia Officer
Dr Katy Chisenga Blog Editor-inChief
William Adeboye Academia Officer
Dr Mobola Odukale Blog Writer
Dr Temidayo Osunrobi Director of Academia
Dr Ntiriwa Sekyi-Djan Education & Training Officer
Limaro Nyam Events Officer
Connor Henry-Blake Advocacy Officer
Sandra Mireku Blog Writer
Ayanfe Adebayo Social Media Manager
Thank you to our former team members: Allan Nathans, Dr Michelle Chirimuuta, Dr Rachael Osei, Dr Jade Okene, Shona Manning, Dr Jerome McIntosh, Sarah O'Connell 45
OUR VOLUNTEERS
Our heartfelt thanks to our volunteers, mentors, event speakers and supporters. We couldn't do it without you!
PERSONAL STATEMENT
Fope Adedeji
Esther Simisola Sule
REVIEWERS
Chinedu Igwe
Aisha Alatishe
Adeshola Agbeniyi
Vanessa Elewa-Ikpakwu
Sope Ashaye
Toni Oduwole
Connor Henry-Blake
Dammie Olubowale
Destiny Emakpor
Mama Ntiriwa Sekyi-Djan
Katy Chisenga
Asha Gibbs
Miriam Mumbua
Limaro Nyam
Orie Amadi
Nina Sowemimo
Michelle Attzs
Sandra Mireku
Arthur Okonkwo
Stephanie Akpan
Emmanuel Onyango
Didi Aromolaran
Sumaya Jumale
Joana Obire
Sabea Morgan
Chiedu Ufodiama
Juliette Uka
Anna Fatunla
Judwin Ndzo
Tesha- Dawn Brathwaite
Natalie Ansuh-Amponsah
Ore Odubiyi
Iheukwumere Duru
Mercy Olawuni
Olabisi Ogunbiyi
Funmi Morgan
Joyce Elombe
Agnes Okalawon
Serge Omanyondo
Ellis Chika Onwordi
Sumaya Jumale
Ellis Chika Onwordi
Calisha Allen
Mobola Odukale
Daniel Ghosh
Sarah Hudson-Phillips
Zachariah James
Sabea Morgan
Antonia Ashaye
Deji Ajanaku
Jonathan La-Crette
William Adeboye
Rose-Anne Nunoo
Hannah Okechukwu
William Maura
Toju Arenyeka
Marta Mungai
Nicole Minta
Robyn Anderson
Ginika Lazz-Onyenobi
Patrick Tano
46
MOCK INTERVIEWERS
ASPIRING MEDIC
Fola David Ajekigbe
Iyare Nehikhare
MENTORS
Somi Idowu
Sakina Kuna
Kwaku Duah
Ronke Akinmade
Iheukwumere Duru
Katy Chisenga
Ibby Oni
Chioma Elewa-Ikpakwu
Renee
Lucrece Wasolua-Kibeti
Helena Usuanlele
Chukwuemeka Abazie
Hazel Fofie
Safiya Rose-Hartwell
Imani Looby
Georgette oni
Isaac Akinduro
Cynthia Akpobi
Emmanuella Adu-peprah
Robyn Anderson
Lizkerry Odeh
Kelechi Charles Azuh
Tai Oladimeji
Abigail Agbabiaka
Lamin King
Kem Ekpo
Tosin Sotubo
Anne Oshodi
Sonia Mason
Makeda Kingue Sousseing
Lisa Dhege
Abrar Elniel
Sharice Henry
Ebun Kadeba
Desola Awokoya
Dolu Falowo
Toni Robinson
Zara Murdock
David Faluyi
Nasirdeen Yusoof
Anjolaoluwa Odulaja
Iyare Nehikhare
Mary Biyi
Hannah Ajayi
Sakina Kuna
Ivie Itua
Moses Osibanjo
Ronke Akinmade
Beverley Okuneye
Michael Adeleye
Ibby Oni
Miriam Mumbua
Rumbi Chandauka
Lucrece Wasolua-Kibeti
Abigail Amonoo-Neizer
Nyasha Zvobgo
Hazel Fofie
Ayomide Ayorinde
Omolayo Soruna
Georgette oni
Makeda Kingue Sousseing
Abisoye Akintimehin
Emmanuella Adu-peprah
Jessica Quimpo
Dominique Al-Hindawi
Kelechi Charles Azuh
Theodora Okechukwu
Perside Mpisi
Lamin King
Antonia Ashaye
Layla
Anne Oshodi
Jessica Olo
Feyisayo Ajayi
Lisa Dhege
Zainab Ganiyu-Dada
Irene
Ebun Kadeba
Nyasha Zvobgo
Jade Scott-Blagrove
Toni Robinson
Omolayo Soruna
Ife Williams
Nasirdeen Yusoof
Abisoye Akintimehin
Hannah Okechuwku
Mary Biyi
Dominique Al-Hindawi
Melissa O'Conner-Smith
Ivie Itua
Perside
Kimberley DuBois
Beverley Okuneye
Layla
Aramide Adenaike
Miriam Mumbua
Mobola Odulake
Abigail Amonoo-Neizer
Abigail Amonoo-Neizer
Yvonne Asiedu
Shona Manning
Ayomide Ayorinde
Rachel Eigbefoh
Makeda Kingue Sousseing
Joanne Adeluola
Jessica Quimpo
Temitayo Eniola
Theodora Okechukwu
Victoria Sajowa
Antonia Ashaye
Catherine
Jessica Olo
Yvonne Abimbola
Zainab Ganiyu-Dada
47
ENRICHMENT
EVENT
PROGRAMME MENTORS
SPEAKERS
Ella McGowan
Chidera Ota
Tobi Obisanya
Temidayo Osunronbi
Jade Scott-Blagrove
Jude Nzeako
Fola Ajekigbe
Nike Okunade
Layla Guscoth
Stacey Bryan
Sonia Mason
Marilyn Boampomaa
Lydia Baffour-Awuah
Hazel Fofie
Yvonne Asideu
Edwin Eshun
Zainab Ganiyu-Dada
Sharon Amukamara
Natalie Blavo
Nicholas Mbabazi
Sarah Hudson-Phillips
Diana Akpeki
Thelma Tembo
Bakar Lubwama
Lola Meghoma
Davina Isaac
Louise St Aimee
Jonathan Makanjuola
Olayisade Ajibola-Taylor
Dame Elizabeth Anionwu
Kukua Harley
Andrew Alalade
Abisola Adeleye
Frances Day-Stirk
Safiya Rose-Hartwell
Segn Nedd
Aderonke Adeoye
Jacob Oguntimehin
Joana Obire
Rochelle Pierre
Roase-Anne Nunoo
David Faluyi
Jermaine Bamfo
Ayomide Ayorinde
Jasmine Chingono
Khadija Owusu
Bola Owolabi
Jade Okene
Christine Mitoko
Olamide Dada
Titoluwani Ogunbiyi
Professor Dinesh Bhugra
Simon-Peter Hosein
CBE
Mobola Odukale
Joy Warmington MBE
Elizabeth Ayanbadejo Melanie Etti Theresa Awolesi
48
Acknowledgements We are grateful for the contributions of the people who worked on this impact report. The Report Designer MADE by Midé Supported By: Melanin Medics www.melaninmedics.com info@melaninmedics.com Registered Charity No: 1188982