A Journey Rooted in Education
Dr. Chinedu Agwu
I firmly believe in the African proverb, "If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together." As a young black woman climbing the ladder of success, I have come to recognise the importance of community and collaboration.
My journey into the world of biosciences began with disappointment as I didn’t get admission into medical school (as planned) and so went for my insurance choice, yet I still had a thirst for knowledge and explored my options. Therefore, I studied Biomedical Science, where my fascination with the intricacies of the human body and its functions took root. Undeterred by challenges and fuelled by my passion, I remained in education, earning both a Masters and PhD, specialising in women's health and reproductive science research (forever a student!). In this way, these academic pursuits laid the foundation for my future endeavours.
After completing my formal education, I embarked on a career that would allow me to utilise my expertise while making a difference. My first job was as an Associate Medical Writer for a healthcare communications company, where I honed my skills in conveying complex medical information to a broader audience. Subsequently, this experience proved invaluable as it prepared me for my current role as a Lecturer in Biosciences at Brunel, where I now educate the next generation of scientists and doctors.
DRIVING REPRESENTATION
As I progressed in my career, I became acutely aware of the underrepresentation of black and racially minoritised students in bioscience courses and workplaces. Consequently, this realisation ignited a fire within my heart, leading to the creation of BioSci Toolkit. #REPRESENTATION MATTERS
BioSci Toolkit is a beacon of hope and empowerment for aspiring bioscientists, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds. Moreover, its primary aim is to equip and empower students into bioscience degrees and careers. It goes a step further by instilling an interest in science from an early age and enhancing employability skills. I am also currently in the process of registering it as a non-profit organisation (exciting times!).
THE POWER OF COLLABORATION
I started my journey with With Insight Education as a mentor in Manchester University and now I am collaborating with them on events for black-heritage science students. I am thankful to them and for organisations like BBSTEM, BWiS, Black in Biomed, SISTEMUK, and in2science who have collaborated with me, providing invaluable support and guidance on my journey.
This Black History Month, I wholeheartedly celebrate the remarkable women across all sectors of work who are taking up space, speaking up, and making a difference. I firmly believe that while progress has been made, there is still a journey ahead and I am unwavering in my commitment to paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future.
In summary, this blog is written as a reminder that our individual passion, resilience, and dedication can not only lead to personal success but also create a ripple effect of empowerment and inspiration for generations to come.
If you would like to be part of BioScience Toolkit, we warmly welcome students/early career professionals to become BioSci Toolkit ambassadors in their universities and workplaces. Connect with us below:
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Linkedin: BioSci Toolkit: Overview | LinkedIn
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