As a skilled medical laboratory scientist with an interest in molecular diagnostics and a passion for global health, particularly advocating for mental health and improving maternal and child health services, my career goals and professional aspirations are deeply rooted in making a meaningful impact on healthcare and community welfare. I hold a Bachelor's in Medical Laboratory Science and Technology from the University of Nairobi, Kenya, and a current Master's in Medical Laboratory Science Leadership student at the University of Cincinnati, Ohio, USA. I took a concentration in molecular diagnostics as it contributes to early diagnosis of diseases like cancers, through profiling of genes, which can also be used in personalized targeted therapy. During my career, I have honed my skills in clinical laboratory testing, quality assurance, and quality working in medical laboratories and interning in public health facilities and research institutions. These educational milestones and work experience provided me with a solid foundation in laboratory science while instilling leadership qualities essential for driving positive change in healthcare systems. Beyond technical expertise, my commitment to community service has been a driving force behind my professional journey. Volunteer work with mental health and maternal and child health programs has allowed me to advocate for effective bereavement support and emotional wellness services. Establishing Empower Mama, a nonprofit organization focused on maternal and child health, reflects my dedication to holistic healthcare solutions for vulnerable populations. Looking ahead, my career goals include a blended approach to healthcare leadership and advocacy. I aim to leverage my expertise in laboratory science to contribute to solutions to diagnostic challenges in global health. I intend to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams as working together makes the move to the goal faster. Through my commitment to innovation and social responsibility in healthcare, I aim to positively impact the well-being of individuals.

Cancer, a word that resonates with pain, uncertainty, and loss, has woven its intricate threads into the fabric of my life, leaving an indelible mark on my journey. Growing up, when I was about 7 years old my mother was admitted on hospital and my two aunts distributed the burden of raising my sister and I among themselves, as my mother was undergoing treatment. The aunt I went to was a pillar of strength and support. She was such a nurturing presence in my life and even after my mother was discharged, I visited and stayed with her during school holidays. I had just joined my first year in university, when I was informed that my aunt was undergoing a surgery to remove uterine fibroids. I visited her two days after the surgery and her whole body and lips were swollen. The doctors thought it was post-operation complications and she was put under observation as they ran further laboratory tests. Apparently the growth removed was cancerous and she had uterine cancer. It had metastasized to the lungs and I lost my aunt within two weeks before she could even start treatment. Losing my aunt profoundly shaped my education and career ambitions. I was determined to understand, and wondered how I could prevent the devastating consequences of delayed diagnosis. My aunt's initial diagnosis as just fibroids rather than cancer served as a poignant reminder of the challenges patients and families face due to misdiagnosis. I studied medical laboratory science (MLS) for my Bachelor's degree focusing on early diagnosing techniques, as I strived to understand cancer detection and treatment. I realized obtaining knowledge only was not enough and I had to translate that to action. During our family get together meetings, I become an advocate for raising awareness about the importance of going for annual check ups, seeking second opinions and not ignoring any symptoms to enable early detection and diagnosis, especially in cases where symptoms might mimic less severe conditions, especially with cancers like breast cancer, cervical cancer and prostate cancer. I wanted to contribute more to this field and I joined an annual walk to raise awareness of childhood cancers. I crocheted beanie hats for the children going through cancer treatment. Most lose their hair and that was my little way of supporting them as their underwent treatment by having a warm hat for their tiny heads. This was a way of honoring my aunt's memory and I always join the walk every year. The field of MLS holds immense potential for creating a positive impact in cancer research. I recently started a masters program at The University of Cincinnati. I aim to learn about the latest advancements in diagnostic technologies and do research on early diagnosis methods. There is an urgency to develop techniques that can detect cancer at its earliest stages, when treatment options are most effective, this has become a driving force in shaping my academic pursuits. I will engage with experienced professionals in the field to gain invaluable insights into the practical application of MLS in cancer research. The impact of cancer on my life, as epitomized by the loss of my aunt, has been both transformative and motivational. As I stand at the threshold of my future, I am resolute in my determination to contribute to MLS field. Armed with a deep empathy for those affected by cancer and a strong academic foundation, I am eager to do research that will be of positive impact. I desire to prevent others from enduring the pain that my family and I experienced due to a delayed diagnosis.

Community is Powerful. Mental health is an essential aspect of overall well-being, yet accessibility and affordability of mental health care often pose significant barriers to those who need support. In recognition of this issue, I initiated peer support groups for individuals navigating child loss and for those struggling with mental health challenges following a pregnancy or after birth in Kenya, to bridge the gap. I employed various approaches which I believe can be replicated to make mental health affordable and accessible to all. Prior to COVID, we had physical support groups. Leveraging technology to provide online support increased the reach to those in far cities who would otherwise be unable to attend a physical meeting in a different city. Online platforms like Facebook groups and WhatsApp groups allowed individuals to connect, share experiences, and access resources, fostering a sense of community and reducing the sense of isolation. This community helps advocate for policies to prioritize maternal mental health. I have facilitated in organizing workshops and public talks in collaboration with local community centers, local hospitals, religious places, and workplaces to raise awareness about mental health issues in pregnant and new families. I collaborated with a colleague to help integrate maternal mental health services in a local public health facility. This increased the access of maternal mental health information and resources to many. The initiative reaches over 2000 pregnant and new parents per week. Community is powerful in mental health care accessibility and affordability. Using technology and advocacy are helpful tools.

As an immigrant woman of color, a single mother, and the first in my family to attend college, I am keenly aware of the obstacles that women like me encounter on the path to achieving our educational and career goals. The decision to leave my six-year-old son in the care of my mother and sister while I pursue my education was not an easy one. However, I firmly believe that by investing in my own future through higher education, I can create a better life not only for myself but also for my son. This scholarship would be instrumental in enabling me to overcome the financial burden associated with being an international graduate student. As a single parent, balancing the responsibilities of being a parent while juggling the demands of academic life are be a daunting task. The financial burden of paying international tuition fee rates, books, housing, food, and childcare can be overwhelming, leading to a struggle to maintain a healthy work-school-life balance. I am blessed to have a supportive mother and sister who help take care of my son but sometimes the guilt of not being present weighs on me. One time I missed a first tooth extraction, which was significant for both my child and I and I felt bad about it. I am learning to give myself grace, as my education will help pave a better future for my son and it is all worth it. The $10,000 scholarship would make a significant difference in my life, allowing me to pursue my studies without the constant worry of exorbitant tuition fees. With this support, I would be able to focus more on my academic pursuits, engage in extracurricular activities, and take advantage of networking opportunities that can further enhance my educational and professional growth. Moreover, I envision utilizing the scholarship funds to improve the lives of not only myself but also my family. As a single mother, it has always been my priority to provide the best possible future for my son. With this financial assistance, I would be able to invest in quality childcare services that will ensure his well-being and development while I am dedicated to my studies. Furthermore, I would use a portion of the funds to access educational resources, such as books, research materials, and online courses, which would greatly enhance my learning experience and contribute to my academic success. Additionally, I aspire to continue mentoring young girls and other women facing similar challenges. I have been mentoring high school girls in my country, Kenya. Inspired by the legacy of Barbara J. DeVaney, I will improve my mentorship program and aim it at guiding and empowering single mothers, immigrants, women of color, first-generation college students who want to pursue of higher education in another country other than Kenya. By sharing my own experiences and offering guidance, I hope to inspire and motivate other women to overcome their barriers and achieve their dreams. In conclusion, receiving the Barbara J. DeVaney Scholarship would not only alleviate the financial strain I face as an international graduate student, but it would also empower me to create a better life for myself and my son. With the scholarship funds, I would be able to focus on my studies, invest in quality childcare, access valuable educational resources, and improve the mentorship program I do to support other women facing similar challenges. I am deeply grateful for your consideration and the opportunity to apply for this scholarship. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Mental health is an essential aspect of our overall well-being, and it can significantly impact our beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. In my personal experience, I've witnessed how mental health can have both positive and negative effects on one's life. In my family, we have had experiences with mental health issues. My mother has struggled with anxiety and depression for many years, and her condition has had a significant impact on our family dynamics. We've had to learn how to be supportive of her and her needs, which has brought us closer together as a family. However, it has also been challenging to see her struggle and feel helpless at times. She has been on medications for the last 30 years following a traumatic childbirth when she was giving birth to one of my siblings. On a personal level, I've also struggled with anxiety and have had to learn how to manage my symptoms. My experience has influenced my beliefs about mental health, as I now understand the importance of seeking help and addressing mental health issues. I joined the annual worldwide Climb Out of the Darkness® event in 2018 and together with other parents who had an experience with mental illnesses during pregnancy after birth. The event is done in the USA and we were the first to hold the event in Africa, in Kenya. In 2019, I led the climb to shine a light on the mental health of new families. The event brought together parents, their support persons, and healthcare workers and we hiked Mt. Kenya. In terms of the mental health industry, I've had both positive and negative experiences. On the positive side, I was able to receive effective treatment for my anxiety and gained a better understanding of my condition. This experience has led me to become an advocate for mental health and has even influenced my career aspirations. I intend to use scientific research to find solutions to some of the mental health challenges. However, I've also had negative experiences with the mental health industry, such as facing stigma and discrimination. I've seen how mental health can be stigmatized, and those who seek help can face discrimination, which can make it challenging to access appropriate resources and receive the necessary treatment. In conclusion, my experiences with mental health have influenced my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. While there have been both positive and negative experiences with the mental health industry, I believe it's essential to continue advocating for mental health and breaking down the stigma associated with it.

I believe that my mental health is crucial because it affects every aspect of my life. It determines how I think, feel, and behave, and impacts my relationships, work, studies, and overall well-being. Good mental health helps me cope with stress, make better decisions, and improve my self-esteem. On the other hand, poor mental health can lead to mental illnesses such as anxiety, depression, and other conditions that affect the quality of life. There are many other risk factors for mental ill health such as genetic predisposition, experiencing a traumatic event, and loss. Factors such as financial stress, having experienced a child loss before, and being a single parent have made me aware of the need to maintain good mental wellness. I maintain my mental wellness by taking care of all aspects of my being; physical, social, emotional, mental, and spiritual. I try to eat a balanced diet and drink lots of water to take care of my body. Once in a while I have a chocolate or ice cream when the craving strikes. I never used to exercise but I recently started walking every evening to exercise and clear my head. The winter weather had kept me indoors and it lowered my mood and I felt like my energy dropped. I've been having a challenge getting enough sleep as I'm juggling work and school. I understand sleep is the most important for my body and mind to function at their best and I try to have at least 6 hours of sleep. I keep connection with my family and friends who are back in my home country through daily calls or messages. I speak with my son every morning and evening just to keep our bond strong and that has helped reduce the stress that comes with parenting long-distance. I'm grateful for a very supportive family who are taking care of my child. As a child loss bereavement counselor, I practice self-care that I preach when I'm facilitating grief support groups. I enjoy long baths or sitting or walking outside in nature when the weather is good. I'm good at taking breaks as it helps improve my mood when I feel stressed at work. I have a psychologist I debrief with as grief support is quite heavy and impacts on mental well-being. Journaling has been helpful for me to declutter my brain. I even hosted the Shades of Blue Project from USA in my home country Kenya, to help the women that I support understand journaling as a self-care tool. Seeking professional help is important when needed. Mental health professionals can provide therapy, medication, or other treatments to help manage symptoms of mental illness. Whenever I feel like I'm struggling, I always talk to my therapist. I'm also a big advocate for asking for help and receiving help offered both of which people find so hard to do but are good for our well-being. In conclusion, mental health is health as it is vital for overall well-being. By engaging in self-care, staying physically active, connecting with others, and seeking professional help when needed, we can maintain good mental wellness, improve the quality of our life, and live happier, more fulfilling lives.

IT IS WORTH IT I am a non-traditional student. I'm the first in my family to get university education. It took me seven years before going back to further my studies. I joined University of Cincinnati this year at 32 years old. I'm also a single parent. As a single mother pursuing higher education, I face unique challenges that can be overwhelming and daunting at times. However, I believe that with perseverance, dedication, and support, I can overcome these obstacles and achieve my goals. One of the biggest challenges that I face is the financial burden of raising a child while also paying for tuition and related expenses. As an international student, my tuition fee is high. As a mother to a six-year-old son, I am constantly juggling my responsibilities as a parent with my academic obligations. This means that I have to balance my time and resources carefully, often sacrificing personal time and leisure activities to ensure that I am able to meet all of my obligations. I have left my son with my mother and sister. Being away from him has been challenging but I ought to make this sacrifice to better my family. Despite these challenges, I am deeply committed to pursuing higher education because I believe that it is the key to unlocking a brighter future for both myself and my son. My siblings and my mother are inspired by my drive. As a first-generation college student, and a mentor to young people in my community who look up to me, I understand the transformative power of education, and I am determined to use my degree to make a positive impact on my community and beyond. I have been involved in community projects in my country Kenya, to promote mental health and well-being of pregnant and new families. I started a not-for-profit organization in 2016 to support grieving parents and raise awareness of the impact of child losses as well as advocate for effective bereavement care in all community settings (family, neighborhood, workplaces, social and religious spaces). Moreover, I am pursuing a graduate degree in medical science because I am passionate about using science to provide solutions to maternal and child health challenges and to improve the lives of these populations. Specifically, I hope to use my education and expertise to conduct research on maternal mental health with a focus on mothers, especially single mothers who are a higher risk of a maternal mental illness due to the circumstances surrounding their motherhood. I hope to use scientific research to identify if there are any genes responsible for causing preeclampsia in pregnant women and how they can be identified early, so that Incase the woman gets pregnant, she's monitored from the beginning. I miss my child and all the milestones he's making. I missed a first tooth removal, which was exciting for both of us. I try my best to be in touch with him on video call daily. It has maintained our bond. I'm grateful for a supportive family, who are a blessing to me and my son. The venture to continue with education is all worth it, an opportunity to uplift my family's livelihood. In conclusion, I believe that I am uniquely deserving of this scholarship because of my commitment to my education and my desire to use my degree to make a difference in the world. With this scholarship, I would be able to focus more fully on my studies and continue to pursue my dreams without the constant financial worry that can be so distracting and discouraging. Thank you for considering my application.

MOVING FORWARD You are young, you'll get others, infact multiples. These are words that were said to me when I lost my first born baby. These words were meant to be of comfort and to uplift me but they did the opposite. I was further wounded. I got pregnant with my baby, Amani, when I was doing my undergraduate studies. I deferred a whole academic year to be able to nurture the baby. I factored in time for the body to recover after birth and even exclusive breastfeeding. On due date, I had mixed feelings of excitement and anxiety not knowing what to expect during labor. After intense 12 hours of labour and later going to the theater for a cesarean section, a pretty baby girl was born. I named her Amani. We stayed at the hospital for four days and were discharged to go home. I was scheduled for a postpartum check up two weeks after the birth. I went to the hospital for the check up with my baby in my arms and before the nurse finished with me, she just grabbed the baby and said the baby did not look okay. Amani was immediately put on drip and I was asked to express breast milk. I could barely get an ounce of milk. The events at the hospital were happening too fast and I was trying to understand how I missed noticing the baby was not well. Two days later my baby died. The grief was heavy, the support was minimal, most people around me returned to their day-to-day life after the burial, which was done the next day after Amani's death. My world seemed to have literally stopped. I struggled with identity crisis, suicidal thoughts and ideations and was sinking deep in depression unknowingly. Guilt weighed on me. I had questions. How did I not know I had a sick child even with my medical school background? Was I still a mother? Time lapsed and time to resume school came. Leaving the house allowed me to breath in fresh air and change environments. I started salsa dancing and slowly I began lifting myself off of the dark pit of depression. I allowed myself to grieve my baby through journaling. I had bouts of struggle with concentrating during my studies but I kept going anyway. The hospital where we did our practical rotations is the same one Amani was being treated before she passed away.I still kept going. I passed and graduated with a second class upper honors. Two years later, a lady within my neighborhood died following the loss of her twin boys. This broke my heart. I wished I'd reached out to her if I knew of her loss. Few months later, I saw a lady posting on social media her struggle with suicidal thoughts since her baby died. I reached out and later visited with her and she was glad I showed up. She started referring other mothers who are navigating a similar journey. All these women shared how they felt hurt by words from their families and friends who didn't understand. I didn't have any training at the time and we just had peer support group meetings. This saw the birth of Empower Mama Foundation, an organization that I started to advocate for compassionate and effective bereavement support within hospitals, communities, religious spaces and work places. Loved ones mean well and hope to comfort a grieving parent. We used the Empower Mama platform to advocate for ourselves and educate those around us to be more compassionate. I later was able to take a bereavement support training and have facilitated support groups which have reached more than a thousand families. These groups have become communities of support and have reduced the sense of loneliness and isolation that comes with a grief that many tend to dismiss. It's not a little loss, it's a little baby, a little human that was lost and this baby mattered. Ways to remember these dearly loved children came up. Many would say 'move on' but we said we 'moved forward'. We rebuild our lives and keep on living. The memories with us always. I wrote proposals to hospitals to always listen to pregnant parents so they do not miss opportunities of ending preventable child deaths, and to offer compassionate care in the event of a loss. I started marking International pregnancy and infant remembrance day to support grieving parents, honor their children and advocate for policy changes at work places to give maternity leave, for researchers and to find ways of ending preventable child deaths and policy makers to pass laws that promote holistic maternal care. I'm fighting to see a reduction in child losses especially those that are preventable and compassionate care in the event of a loss.