Adeline June, MPH is Dine’ and lives in Window Rock, Arizona. She is a DrPH Student at the University of Arizona Mel & Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health; her focus is Maternal and Child Health, with a minor in American Indian Studies. She is also working full time at the Gallup Indian Medical Center (GIMC) as the Zero Suicide Initiative Project Coordinator. The Gallup Indian Medical Center is the largest Indian Health Service Unit in the Navajo Service Area. Her research interests focus on AIAN maternal and child mental health, suicide prevention, and Adverse Childhood Experiences. She believes that health interventions should include indigenous knowledge and is implementing traditional healing treatment services at GIMC.
Adeline June, MPH is Dine’ and lives in Window Rock, Arizona. She is a DrPH Student at the University of Arizona Mel & Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health; her focus is Maternal and Child Health, with a minor in American Indian Studies. She is also working full time at the Gallup Indian Medical Center (GIMC) as the Zero Suicide Initiative Project Coordinator. The Gallup Indian Medical Center is the largest Indian Health Service Unit in the Navajo Service Area. Her research interests focus on AIAN maternal and child mental health, suicide prevention, and Adverse Childhood Experiences. She believes that health interventions should include indigenous knowledge and is implementing traditional healing treatment services at GIMC.
Albert was born and raised in Paynesville, Montserrado County, Liberia. He is a Physician Assistant from the Tubman National Institute of Medical Arts and currently studying public health majoring in community health at the CEPRES international university. Albert is trained in project management, donor compliance, grants management, management development and recently completed training in Health Systems Transformation at the School of Systems Change, in the UK. Albert currently works the for the Last Mile Health as Senior Technical Advisor, Health Service Delivery in one of Liberia’s rural Counties, Grand Bassa. He is passionate about delivering health services to rural communities in a timely manner thereby breaching the gaps between those living beyond 5km from the health facility. To fully accomplish this, he works with the county and district health team to recruit, train, supervise, equip and compensate community health assistants and supervisors assigned to rural communities. He also supports the supply chain and logistic team to ensure that CHSS’s and CHAs have the necessary logistics needed for them to effectively get health services to the rural communities and works with the LMH M&E team, to implement effective systems and processes to monitor training, Quality Assurance activities and health workers performance in the district. Prior to joining the Last Mile Health, Albert worked for the International Rescue Committee as Senior Program manager.
Albert was born and raised in Paynesville, Montserrado County, Liberia. He is a Physician Assistant from the Tubman National Institute of Medical Arts and currently studying public health majoring in community health at the CEPRES international university. Albert is trained in project management, donor compliance, grants management, management development and recently completed training in Health Systems Transformation at the School of Systems Change, in the UK. Albert currently works the for the Last Mile Health as Senior Technical Advisor, Health Service Delivery in one of Liberia’s rural Counties, Grand Bassa. He is passionate about delivering health services to rural communities in a timely manner thereby breaching the gaps between those living beyond 5km from the health facility. To fully accomplish this, he works with the county and district health team to recruit, train, supervise, equip and compensate community health assistants and supervisors assigned to rural communities. He also supports the supply chain and logistic team to ensure that CHSS’s and CHAs have the necessary logistics needed for them to effectively get health services to the rural communities and works with the LMH M&E team, to implement effective systems and processes to monitor training, Quality Assurance activities and health workers performance in the district. Prior to joining the Last Mile Health, Albert worked for the International Rescue Committee as Senior Program manager.
Amit was raised in Texas. His interests include increasing collaboration between mental health providers trained in different disciplines, considering issues of racism and colonialism within the practice of psychotherapy, and expanding non-traditional service models for offering mental health services. He completed his psychiatry residency at the University of Maryland, medical school at Columbia University, an MPH at Johns Hopkins University, and his undergraduate degree in economics at Rice University. He enjoys riding his spin bike, baking, reading science fiction and fantasy, watching movies, and being outside.
Amit was raised in Texas. His interests include increasing collaboration between mental health providers trained in different disciplines, considering issues of racism and colonialism within the practice of psychotherapy, and expanding non-traditional service models for offering mental health services. He completed his psychiatry residency at the University of Maryland, medical school at Columbia University, an MPH at Johns Hopkins University, and his undergraduate degree in economics at Rice University. He enjoys riding his spin bike, baking, reading science fiction and fantasy, watching movies, and being outside.
Antonio, his friends call him Tony, was born in the Central Valleys of Oaxaca in a family with zapotec (dizdà, the clouds people) and mixtec (tu’un savi, the rain people) roots. He grew in the north of Oaxaca City between the town and the forest and rivers of the foothills of the Sierra Norte where is his father’s town, San Andrés Huayapam (luu niss rub, above the big water) and where grow the trees that are emblem of dizdà people, the Rosital (Quararibea funebris), trees that are considered part of the family. At 18 years he moved to Mexico City to study medicine. He likes to collaborate with organizations that support vulnerable people with whom he identifies himself as Mexican Red Cross during the earthquakes of 2017, where he got the Basic Emergency Medical Technician degree, Aids Healthcare Foundation and now in Compañeros en Salud (PIH Mexico) where he works as clinical manager in the IPC program that has the goal of implementing strategies to attend to people that suffer from tuberculosis considering social determinants in the Fraylesca and Sierra Mariscal regions, where there are low detection of cases and high mortality. His passions are the advocacy for LGBTIQ+ rights, science, and traveling because he loves to make new friends and knowing their cosmovision.
Antonio, his friends call him Tony, was born in the Central Valleys of Oaxaca in a family with zapotec (dizdà, the clouds people) and mixtec (tu’un savi, the rain people) roots. He grew in the north of Oaxaca City between the town and the forest and rivers of the foothills of the Sierra Norte where is his father’s town, San Andrés Huayapam (luu niss rub, above the big water) and where grow the trees that are emblem of dizdà people, the Rosital (Quararibea funebris), trees that are considered part of the family. At 18 years he moved to Mexico City to study medicine. He likes to collaborate with organizations that support vulnerable people with whom he identifies himself as Mexican Red Cross during the earthquakes of 2017, where he got the Basic Emergency Medical Technician degree, Aids Healthcare Foundation and now in Compañeros en Salud (PIH Mexico) where he works as clinical manager in the IPC program that has the goal of implementing strategies to attend to people that suffer from tuberculosis considering social determinants in the Fraylesca and Sierra Mariscal regions, where there are low detection of cases and high mortality. His passions are the advocacy for LGBTIQ+ rights, science, and traveling because he loves to make new friends and knowing their cosmovision.
Assen Kamwesigye was born in Sheema district in Western Uganda, but was raised in Kampala, Central Uganda. Assen is a maternal health specialist, with over three years experience working in rural Eastern Uganda community, at Mbale Regional Referral and Teaching Hospital as an Obstetrician and Gynecologist, and an honorary lecturer at the Busitema University, Faculty of Health Sciences. She is passionate about maternal health, and leads quality improvement activities in Maternal, neonatal and child health in Eastern Uganda to ensure safe, and equitable provision of health care services to all women who access care at the facility. She spends a significant amount of time teaching medical students in maternal health, mentoring health care workers in hard to reach health facilities in Eastern Uganda, and taking care of women of low socio-economical status at the free public Health facility. She is also involved in research conducted at her facility with the aim to offer effective, affordable and quality interventions to women. Outside work, Assen enjoys travelling and visiting friends and family. She is excited to join a family of professionals with similar passion, and is looking forward to learning from the extensive wealth of professionals, acquiring skills and knowledge to advocate for equitable healthcare to the underserved in her rural community.
Assen Kamwesigye was born in Sheema district in Western Uganda, but was raised in Kampala, Central Uganda. Assen is a maternal health specialist, with over three years experience working in rural Eastern Uganda community, at Mbale Regional Referral and Teaching Hospital as an Obstetrician and Gynecologist, and an honorary lecturer at the Busitema University, Faculty of Health Sciences. She is passionate about maternal health, and leads quality improvement activities in Maternal, neonatal and child health in Eastern Uganda to ensure safe, and equitable provision of health care services to all women who access care at the facility. She spends a significant amount of time teaching medical students in maternal health, mentoring health care workers in hard to reach health facilities in Eastern Uganda, and taking care of women of low socio-economical status at the free public Health facility. She is also involved in research conducted at her facility with the aim to offer effective, affordable and quality interventions to women. Outside work, Assen enjoys travelling and visiting friends and family. She is excited to join a family of professionals with similar passion, and is looking forward to learning from the extensive wealth of professionals, acquiring skills and knowledge to advocate for equitable healthcare to the underserved in her rural community.
Cima Maliakal was born in Saudi Arabia and spent her childhood between New Zealand, Australia, and the US. She completed her undergraduate studies in religion at University of Miami in Miami, Florida, and stayed for her medical school. She then went on to complete her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Georgetown University in Washington DC. Her passions include travel, both for mission trips and fun. She has traveled to about 50 countries in her life. In her free time, she also loves to explore cultural events, was a professional dancer in college, and has a black belt in Tae Kwon Do. She loves spending time with her husband, Eric, her dog Chloe, and her friends. Cima is looking forward to serving in the underserved populations both in Fresno and in Uganda.
Cima Maliakal was born in Saudi Arabia and spent her childhood between New Zealand, Australia, and the US. She completed her undergraduate studies in religion at University of Miami in Miami, Florida, and stayed for her medical school. She then went on to complete her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Georgetown University in Washington DC. Her passions include travel, both for mission trips and fun. She has traveled to about 50 countries in her life. In her free time, she also loves to explore cultural events, was a professional dancer in college, and has a black belt in Tae Kwon Do. She loves spending time with her husband, Eric, her dog Chloe, and her friends. Cima is looking forward to serving in the underserved populations both in Fresno and in Uganda.
Cynthia Teller is from a small town located on the Navajo Nation known as Ganado, AZ. Here, Cynthia graduated as valedictorian enabling her to become a scholar of Gates Millenium and Chief Manuelito in May of 2016. These scholarships would later enable her to graduate debt free while obtaining post-secondary education. Cynthia completed nursing school at Northern Arizona University, located in Flagstaff, AZ, in November of 2020. After earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and passing the NCLEX, she returned to her homeland to care for and promote the health of her people. Cynthia is currently working as a Labor, Delivery, Recovery, and Postpartum RN at Tséhootsooí Medical Center located in Fort Defiance, AZ. Ms. Teller is the helping hand in creating a new-graduate nurse residency program on the LDRP unit of TMC. As a first-generation college graduate, Cynthia aims to inspire and mentor those who have aspirations to pursue a career in the healthcare field. Ms. Teller joined HEAL to collaborate with those who enjoy improving their community with genuine devotion and everlasting love. Cynthia enjoys journaling, couponing, exploring cooking recipes, and thrift shopping during her free time. Her interest is exploring how prevalent comorbidities and environmental factors affect a woman’s pregnancy and postpartum journey. She is excited to begin a new chapter with HEAL!
Cynthia Teller is from a small town located on the Navajo Nation known as Ganado, AZ. Here, Cynthia graduated as valedictorian enabling her to become a scholar of Gates Millenium and Chief Manuelito in May of 2016. These scholarships would later enable her to graduate debt free while obtaining post-secondary education. Cynthia completed nursing school at Northern Arizona University, located in Flagstaff, AZ, in November of 2020. After earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and passing the NCLEX, she returned to her homeland to care for and promote the health of her people. Cynthia is currently working as a Labor, Delivery, Recovery, and Postpartum RN at Tséhootsooí Medical Center located in Fort Defiance, AZ. Ms. Teller is the helping hand in creating a new-graduate nurse residency program on the LDRP unit of TMC. As a first-generation college graduate, Cynthia aims to inspire and mentor those who have aspirations to pursue a career in the healthcare field. Ms. Teller joined HEAL to collaborate with those who enjoy improving their community with genuine devotion and everlasting love. Cynthia enjoys journaling, couponing, exploring cooking recipes, and thrift shopping during her free time. Her interest is exploring how prevalent comorbidities and environmental factors affect a woman’s pregnancy and postpartum journey. She is excited to begin a new chapter with HEAL!
Dr Deogratias Sengeyo is originally from Rwanda, he is the Director of Medical and Allied Health Science Services at Rwinkwavu District Hospital. He has three years’ experience as General Practitioner, with special interest in Healthy Equity. He obtained his Bachelor of General Medicine and Surgery at the University of Rwanda. In addition to his practice, he is on the board of Vision Zero Youth Council Rwanda, an organization providing training and advocacy to decision makers on safer mobility of young people in Rwanda.
Dr Deogratias Sengeyo is originally from Rwanda, he is the Director of Medical and Allied Health Science Services at Rwinkwavu District Hospital. He has three years’ experience as General Practitioner, with special interest in Healthy Equity. He obtained his Bachelor of General Medicine and Surgery at the University of Rwanda. In addition to his practice, he is on the board of Vision Zero Youth Council Rwanda, an organization providing training and advocacy to decision makers on safer mobility of young people in Rwanda.
Julia Hyman was born and raised in Newton, Massachusetts, and lived within a 50-mile radius for much of her life. She went to Harvard College and majored in Human Evolutionary Biology with a focus on primatology. She did her undergraduate thesis studying monkeys in the wild in Uganda. She then worked in a lab at Massachusetts Institute of Technology before matriculating at Harvard Medical School. During her time at HMS, she worked on a QI project on severe mental illness with Partners In Health in Neno, Malawi (Abwenzi Pa Za Umoyo), which cemented her interest in global health and in the HEAL fellowship after overlapping with HEAL fellows at APZU. She then went onto Internal Medicine residency at University of Massachusetts/UMass Chan Medical School, where so took great pride in medical education, in palliative care, and in her care of patients with addiction. In her free time, she loves spending time with her family, playing soccer, eating good food, and doing very little on her days off.
Julia Hyman was born and raised in Newton, Massachusetts, and lived within a 50-mile radius for much of her life. She went to Harvard College and majored in Human Evolutionary Biology with a focus on primatology. She did her undergraduate thesis studying monkeys in the wild in Uganda. She then worked in a lab at Massachusetts Institute of Technology before matriculating at Harvard Medical School. During her time at HMS, she worked on a QI project on severe mental illness with Partners In Health in Neno, Malawi (Abwenzi Pa Za Umoyo), which cemented her interest in global health and in the HEAL fellowship after overlapping with HEAL fellows at APZU. She then went onto Internal Medicine residency at University of Massachusetts/UMass Chan Medical School, where so took great pride in medical education, in palliative care, and in her care of patients with addiction. In her free time, she loves spending time with her family, playing soccer, eating good food, and doing very little on her days off.
Justine Broecker was born and raised in Atlanta, GA. She majored in English at University of Virginia and graduated from Emory medical school. She completed general surgery residency at Mayo Clinic Florida and surgical critical care fellowship at UTSW/Parkland.
Justine Broecker was born and raised in Atlanta, GA. She majored in English at University of Virginia and graduated from Emory medical school. She completed general surgery residency at Mayo Clinic Florida and surgical critical care fellowship at UTSW/Parkland.
Katherine Aparicio is from South San Francisco, California. She obtained a bachelor’s degree at UC Berkeley in 1997. She then went to obtain a Holistic Health certification from San Francisco State University. She has an Osteopathic Medical Degree from Touro University in Vallejo, California and completed her Family Medicine residency at the University of Arizona. She currently works as a medical provider for Pascua site at El Rio Community Health Center in Tucson Arizona. Her interests are integrative medicine, native health, and health equity.
Katherine Aparicio is from South San Francisco, California. She obtained a bachelor’s degree at UC Berkeley in 1997. She then went to obtain a Holistic Health certification from San Francisco State University. She has an Osteopathic Medical Degree from Touro University in Vallejo, California and completed her Family Medicine residency at the University of Arizona. She currently works as a medical provider for Pascua site at El Rio Community Health Center in Tucson Arizona. Her interests are integrative medicine, native health, and health equity.
Kristen Zozulin is primarily from Watertown, Connecticut. She received her bachelor’s in Systems Biology from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, with minors in Technical Theater and Classical Studies. From there, she joined the US Peace Corps and served in Foya, Lofa County, Liberia from 2013-14, when she was evacuated due to the Ebola epidemic. She then returned 2015-16 to Buchanan in Grand Bassa County, where she taught chemistry and worked on projects in girls’ empowerment and laboratory science. Her experiences in Liberia inspired her to pursue a career in global health. She attended the Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine at Quinnipiac University in North Haven, CT, where her capstone project brought her to rural Kenya working in girls’ health education and empowerment with local community organizations. She completed her residency in Family Medicine at Ventura County Medical Center in Ventura, CA, where she received full spectrum training in outpatient, inpatient, critical care, trauma, emergency medicine, pediatrics, and obstetrics. She is thrilled at the opportunity to join the ranks of the HEAL Fellowship, and looking forward to an exciting next two years!
Kristen Zozulin is primarily from Watertown, Connecticut. She received her bachelor’s in Systems Biology from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, with minors in Technical Theater and Classical Studies. From there, she joined the US Peace Corps and served in Foya, Lofa County, Liberia from 2013-14, when she was evacuated due to the Ebola epidemic. She then returned 2015-16 to Buchanan in Grand Bassa County, where she taught chemistry and worked on projects in girls’ empowerment and laboratory science. Her experiences in Liberia inspired her to pursue a career in global health. She attended the Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine at Quinnipiac University in North Haven, CT, where her capstone project brought her to rural Kenya working in girls’ health education and empowerment with local community organizations. She completed her residency in Family Medicine at Ventura County Medical Center in Ventura, CA, where she received full spectrum training in outpatient, inpatient, critical care, trauma, emergency medicine, pediatrics, and obstetrics. She is thrilled at the opportunity to join the ranks of the HEAL Fellowship, and looking forward to an exciting next two years!
Medson Boti is from Neno in Malawi. He did his primary education at Mphete primary school in Mwanza, Malawi. He finished his secondary education at Mwanza secondary school. Then he pursued a diploma in clinical medicine at Malamulo College of Health Sciences, later on he pursued a degree in palliative care at Makerere University. Now he works with Partners in health as a Pen-plus clinical officer. Medson loves singing, composing songs, hiking and appreciating nature.
Medson Boti is from Neno in Malawi. He did his primary education at Mphete primary school in Mwanza, Malawi. He finished his secondary education at Mwanza secondary school. Then he pursued a diploma in clinical medicine at Malamulo College of Health Sciences, later on he pursued a degree in palliative care at Makerere University. Now he works with Partners in health as a Pen-plus clinical officer. Medson loves singing, composing songs, hiking and appreciating nature.
Mellissa Lopez is a member of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe and was born and raised in Tucson, Arizona. Her educational achievements include a Bachelor’s degree in Social and Behavioral Health Sciences and a Master’s in Business Administration with a focus on Healthcare Administration. Mellissa has worked in various capacities for the Pascua Yaqui Tribe of Arizona in the Health Services Division, including many years of experience in behavioral health. She currently holds the position of Quality Improvement Coordinator. Mellissa is excited to be a part of the HEAL community. Mellissa aspires to become a Physician Assistant and is currently in the process of pursuing the necessary steps to do so. She is very proud of her multicultural background and among her accomplishments, she is most proud to be the mother of her two daughters, Jazmyne and Juliet. She encourages them along with their peers to go after all their dreams and goals in life. In her free time, Mellissa enjoys spending time with her family, volunteering, traveling, reading books, crafting, listening to music, and practicing self-care. She strives to improve the health and well-being of all people. Mellissa is very passionate about helping her community and making a difference in everything she does.
Mellissa Lopez is a member of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe and was born and raised in Tucson, Arizona. Her educational achievements include a Bachelor’s degree in Social and Behavioral Health Sciences and a Master’s in Business Administration with a focus on Healthcare Administration. Mellissa has worked in various capacities for the Pascua Yaqui Tribe of Arizona in the Health Services Division, including many years of experience in behavioral health. She currently holds the position of Quality Improvement Coordinator. Mellissa is excited to be a part of the HEAL community. Mellissa aspires to become a Physician Assistant and is currently in the process of pursuing the necessary steps to do so. She is very proud of her multicultural background and among her accomplishments, she is most proud to be the mother of her two daughters, Jazmyne and Juliet. She encourages them along with their peers to go after all their dreams and goals in life. In her free time, Mellissa enjoys spending time with her family, volunteering, traveling, reading books, crafting, listening to music, and practicing self-care. She strives to improve the health and well-being of all people. Mellissa is very passionate about helping her community and making a difference in everything she does.
Michelle Sanchez is originally from Dlo’ayazhi (Thoreau), NM. She now resides in Zuni, NM. Her clans are Áshįįhí (Salt), Dziłtł’ahnii (Mountain Cove), Honágháahnii (One-walks-around clan) and Kinyaa’áanii (Towering House) of the Dine people. Michelle works as the Diabetes Program Assistant at the Zuni Comprehensive Health Care Center. She has supported the clinic with administrative duties since 2012. This is currently her 27th year as a Government Employee. Michelle has an Associates Degree in Business Administration, Bachelors’ Degree in Native American Studies with a minor in Psychology, and a Masters Degree in Public Administration from the University of New Mexico. Michelle enjoys running, hiking, biking, reading, and traveling.
Michelle Sanchez is originally from Dlo’ayazhi (Thoreau), NM. She now resides in Zuni, NM. Her clans are Áshįįhí (Salt), Dziłtł’ahnii (Mountain Cove), Honágháahnii (One-walks-around clan) and Kinyaa’áanii (Towering House) of the Dine people. Michelle works as the Diabetes Program Assistant at the Zuni Comprehensive Health Care Center. She has supported the clinic with administrative duties since 2012. This is currently her 27th year as a Government Employee. Michelle has an Associates Degree in Business Administration, Bachelors’ Degree in Native American Studies with a minor in Psychology, and a Masters Degree in Public Administration from the University of New Mexico. Michelle enjoys running, hiking, biking, reading, and traveling.
Richard Gamubaka is originally from Uganda. He is 35 years old and currently a medical officer doing his general surgical residency training at Mbale Regional Referral Hospital under the College of Surgery of East Central and South Africa. He is in his 3rd year and is passionate and very interested in pediatric surgery and research and public (global) health. The eastern region of Uganda had no pediatric surgeons yet, our people are suffering a lot. His hobbies are playing volleyball, basketball, exercises, reading medical books and novels, traveling, and making new friends. He is very happy to be part of this noble professional HEAL Fellowship. He is happy to meet new people and exchange ideas.
Richard Gamubaka is originally from Uganda. He is 35 years old and currently a medical officer doing his general surgical residency training at Mbale Regional Referral Hospital under the College of Surgery of East Central and South Africa. He is in his 3rd year and is passionate and very interested in pediatric surgery and research and public (global) health. The eastern region of Uganda had no pediatric surgeons yet, our people are suffering a lot. His hobbies are playing volleyball, basketball, exercises, reading medical books and novels, traveling, and making new friends. He is very happy to be part of this noble professional HEAL Fellowship. He is happy to meet new people and exchange ideas.
Sara Scott grew up in Seattle, Washington. She attended medical school at University of Michigan and completed residency at The Ohio State University’s department of Family and Community Medicine. During residency, she began volunteering weekly at a student-run free clinic, Clínica Latina, which provides care for uninsured, Spanish-speaking patients from a variety of backgrounds. This experience highlighted the challenges of providing quality care in under-resourced settings and motivated her to learn more about how best to serve marginalized patients, in particular immigrant and refugee communities. She has completed global health work over the past two years focusing on global medical education in Mexico and Malawi and hopes to build on these experiences during HEAL. She is excited to become part of the HEAL community to learn more about how to provide culturally sensitive care to asylum seekers, build sustainable global health education programs, and inspire and teach others to work in under-resourced communities. Outside of medicine, she enjoys playing ultimate frisbee, casual vegetable gardening, and backpacking.
Sara Scott grew up in Seattle, Washington. She attended medical school at University of Michigan and completed residency at The Ohio State University’s department of Family and Community Medicine. During residency, she began volunteering weekly at a student-run free clinic, Clínica Latina, which provides care for uninsured, Spanish-speaking patients from a variety of backgrounds. This experience highlighted the challenges of providing quality care in under-resourced settings and motivated her to learn more about how best to serve marginalized patients, in particular immigrant and refugee communities. She has completed global health work over the past two years focusing on global medical education in Mexico and Malawi and hopes to build on these experiences during HEAL. She is excited to become part of the HEAL community to learn more about how to provide culturally sensitive care to asylum seekers, build sustainable global health education programs, and inspire and teach others to work in under-resourced communities. Outside of medicine, she enjoys playing ultimate frisbee, casual vegetable gardening, and backpacking.
Selam grew up in Addis Abeba, Ethiopia. She lived in New Delhi, India prior to immigrating to the US at the age of 16. She received her BS in biochemistry from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. She completed her medical education at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center and was grateful to continue her training there as an Internal medicine-pediatrics physician. During her childhood, Selam was a witness to disparities in health, education and resources between the global north and the global south. This experience fostered a desire to pursue a career in medicine so she may be able to care for underserved and vulnerable communities in the world. Selam currently leads a group of residents in creating and delivering health education sessions for the refugee community in Memphis, TN. She has also been involved in the development of a partnership between UTHSC and Levy Mwanawasa Medical University in Zambia. She currently is helping to lead a virtual global health classroom as well as a journal club between medical students and trainees at both of the sites. She is looking forward to continuing her global health work as a HEAL rotating fellow.
Selam grew up in Addis Abeba, Ethiopia. She lived in New Delhi, India prior to immigrating to the US at the age of 16. She received her BS in biochemistry from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. She completed her medical education at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center and was grateful to continue her training there as an Internal medicine-pediatrics physician. During her childhood, Selam was a witness to disparities in health, education and resources between the global north and the global south. This experience fostered a desire to pursue a career in medicine so she may be able to care for underserved and vulnerable communities in the world. Selam currently leads a group of residents in creating and delivering health education sessions for the refugee community in Memphis, TN. She has also been involved in the development of a partnership between UTHSC and Levy Mwanawasa Medical University in Zambia. She currently is helping to lead a virtual global health classroom as well as a journal club between medical students and trainees at both of the sites. She is looking forward to continuing her global health work as a HEAL rotating fellow.
Shailesh Prasad Shrestha from Kathmandu, Nepal. With dreams of serving his community, he completed his medical school (MBBS) from Kathmandu University School of Medical Sciences, Dhulikhel, where he was further inspired by the noble goals and visions of his alma mater. He worked in Dhulikhel Hospital as a medical officer and had the opportunity to serve and provide care during the Nepal earthquake in 2015. He completed his Post-graduate (in MDGP) from Gandaki Medical College, Pokhara, Nepal. During his residency, he had the opportunity to serve in rural community hospitals which further inspired him. After completion of his post-graduate, he re-joined Dhulikhel Hospital and is currently working as a General Practitioner and Clinical Chief in Dolakha Hospital in rural Nepal. He is excited and humbled to join the HEAL initiative family, where he hopes to learn, share and grow and be able to better serve his community. Outside of clinical practice, he enjoys swimming, hiking, admiring nature and trying new delicacies.
Shailesh Prasad Shrestha from Kathmandu, Nepal. With dreams of serving his community, he completed his medical school (MBBS) from Kathmandu University School of Medical Sciences, Dhulikhel, where he was further inspired by the noble goals and visions of his alma mater. He worked in Dhulikhel Hospital as a medical officer and had the opportunity to serve and provide care during the Nepal earthquake in 2015. He completed his Post-graduate (in MDGP) from Gandaki Medical College, Pokhara, Nepal. During his residency, he had the opportunity to serve in rural community hospitals which further inspired him. After completion of his post-graduate, he re-joined Dhulikhel Hospital and is currently working as a General Practitioner and Clinical Chief in Dolakha Hospital in rural Nepal. He is excited and humbled to join the HEAL initiative family, where he hopes to learn, share and grow and be able to better serve his community. Outside of clinical practice, he enjoys swimming, hiking, admiring nature and trying new delicacies.
Spencer Menapace is originally from rural northeastern Pennsylvania and went on to pursue a B.S. in Biology and subsequently his doctorate at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. During Family Practice residency he discovered his passions for community health, medical ethics, and care of the seriously ill and dying as a natural extension of the holistic philosophy underpinning the practice of primary care, leading him to pursue fellowship training in Palliative Care at the Penn State Hershey Medical Center. He went on to accept a position as an assistant professor and further explored the role of clinician-educator in the medical humanities for the medical school. His ongoing experiences with patients and families of heterogenous backgrounds and consistent exposures to structural challenges of modern medicine connected him with earlier experiences as a resident physician caring for disparately resourced communities in Philadelphia and kindled an expanding interest in equity and justice in the practice of medicine. He is very activated and enthused to be engaging in the HEAL fellowship to cultivate a keener understanding of primary and palliative care in diverse contexts and hopes to be of service in growing structures to provide care for the vulnerable. Outside of medicine, Spencer has enjoyed learning about music theory, synthesizers, language, film photography, poetry, and cinema. He enjoys hiking, back-country camping, board games and travel.
Spencer Menapace is originally from rural northeastern Pennsylvania and went on to pursue a B.S. in Biology and subsequently his doctorate at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. During Family Practice residency he discovered his passions for community health, medical ethics, and care of the seriously ill and dying as a natural extension of the holistic philosophy underpinning the practice of primary care, leading him to pursue fellowship training in Palliative Care at the Penn State Hershey Medical Center. He went on to accept a position as an assistant professor and further explored the role of clinician-educator in the medical humanities for the medical school. His ongoing experiences with patients and families of heterogenous backgrounds and consistent exposures to structural challenges of modern medicine connected him with earlier experiences as a resident physician caring for disparately resourced communities in Philadelphia and kindled an expanding interest in equity and justice in the practice of medicine. He is very activated and enthused to be engaging in the HEAL fellowship to cultivate a keener understanding of primary and palliative care in diverse contexts and hopes to be of service in growing structures to provide care for the vulnerable. Outside of medicine, Spencer has enjoyed learning about music theory, synthesizers, language, film photography, poetry, and cinema. He enjoys hiking, back-country camping, board games and travel.
Stephanie Ross grew up in Chicago, IL where she attended medical school at Rush Medical College. Prior to entering medicine, she spent two and a half years in the Peace Corps in Tanzania teaching biology and collaborating to establish a school library. During medical school, she rotated in Rwanda and Panama where she learned about the treatment of HIV and assisted with the initiation of research project studying toxoplasmosis. She attended residency in Miami, FL worked to develop a global health track curriculum to educate medical residents on the history, ethics, and practice of global health. She loves working with diverse communities and being challenged to navigate cultural and societal barriers. In her free time, she enjoys practicing her Spanish, planning long hikes and kayaking around the bay.
Stephanie Ross grew up in Chicago, IL where she attended medical school at Rush Medical College. Prior to entering medicine, she spent two and a half years in the Peace Corps in Tanzania teaching biology and collaborating to establish a school library. During medical school, she rotated in Rwanda and Panama where she learned about the treatment of HIV and assisted with the initiation of research project studying toxoplasmosis. She attended residency in Miami, FL worked to develop a global health track curriculum to educate medical residents on the history, ethics, and practice of global health. She loves working with diverse communities and being challenged to navigate cultural and societal barriers. In her free time, she enjoys practicing her Spanish, planning long hikes and kayaking around the bay.
Alimata Diarra ep. Sangare is originally from Mali. She is a Human Rights Lawyer & holds a Master degree in International Human Rights Law from the University of Notre Dame, USA. Currently, she works as a Government Partnerships Manager at Muso Health Organization, a Nonprofit Organization that advocates for social justice and equity in global health.
Her prior professional experience includes legal assistance, humanitarian law & human rights, especially women and child protection. Having worked in several context, Alimata is highly passionate in building the bridge between diplomacy and humanitarian assistance. She is an alumna of the Mandela Washington Young African Leaders Initiative Fellowship (YALI) since 2016. In her spare time, Alimata enjoys reading and traveling.
Alimata Diarra ep. Sangare is originally from Mali. She is a Human Rights Lawyer & holds a Master degree in International Human Rights Law from the University of Notre Dame, USA. Currently, she works as a Government Partnerships Manager at Muso Health Organization, a Nonprofit Organization that advocates for social justice and equity in global health.
Her prior professional experience includes legal assistance, humanitarian law & human rights, especially women and child protection. Having worked in several context, Alimata is highly passionate in building the bridge between diplomacy and humanitarian assistance. She is an alumna of the Mandela Washington Young African Leaders Initiative Fellowship (YALI) since 2016. In her spare time, Alimata enjoys reading and traveling.
Donna Mae Dineyazhe is originally from Shiprock, New Mexico, a small community located on the Navajo Reservation. She is a member of the Navajo Tribe and works in the community where she was born and raised. She is currently practicing as a Certified Nurse-Midwife at Northern Navajo Medical Center (NNMC) in Shiprock and has been with Indian Health Service (IHS) for almost 18 years.
Her passion involves working with women and giving them the tools to build healthy families for generations to come. Her work honors traditional and cultural teachings and providing a safe space for patients to incorporate both traditional and western medicine. She obtained her Master of Science in Nursing degree from the University of New Mexico-CNM program in 2017. Prior to midwifery, she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and worked as a Medical Technologist at NNMC.
Ms. Dineyazhe is looking forward in collaborating with other health care professionals who have the same desire to assist underserved populations. She’s the daughter of Phillip and Fannie Begay, a wife, a mother of two teenage boys, and also a foster mom. She’s also a cancer survivor! Her hobbies include attending her children’s activities, photography, camping, and loving on her fur babies at home.
Donna Mae Dineyazhe is originally from Shiprock, New Mexico, a small community located on the Navajo Reservation. She is a member of the Navajo Tribe and works in the community where she was born and raised. She is currently practicing as a Certified Nurse-Midwife at Northern Navajo Medical Center (NNMC) in Shiprock and has been with Indian Health Service (IHS) for almost 18 years.
Her passion involves working with women and giving them the tools to build healthy families for generations to come. Her work honors traditional and cultural teachings and providing a safe space for patients to incorporate both traditional and western medicine. She obtained her Master of Science in Nursing degree from the University of New Mexico-CNM program in 2017. Prior to midwifery, she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and worked as a Medical Technologist at NNMC.
Ms. Dineyazhe is looking forward in collaborating with other health care professionals who have the same desire to assist underserved populations. She’s the daughter of Phillip and Fannie Begay, a wife, a mother of two teenage boys, and also a foster mom. She’s also a cancer survivor! Her hobbies include attending her children’s activities, photography, camping, and loving on her fur babies at home.
Emmanuel Saye Miller was born in LAMCO, Yekepa, Nimba County. He is a registered nurse (RN), with an Associate degree from The Stella Maris Polythenic 2006. Emmanuel presently works as a quality assurance officer with Last Mile Health in Grand Bassa County along with the county health team. He supervises community health services supervisors (CHSS) who also cascade supervisory technique to community health assistants (CHA) in the remote communities of Liberia. Emmanuel’s main advocacy is bringing equity in health by balancing health needs between the underserved and those who have access. This has been achieved through partner shipping with the government of Liberia through the National Community Health Assistant program (NCHAP). Emmanuel has been developing the minds of the CHSS, who later provide mentorship for CHAs in remote communities of Liberia to work with their communities in providing quality health services at the peripheral. The goal of Emmanuel is to save life everywhere and everyday, with the mindset that since illness is universal health access should also be.
Emmanuel Saye Miller was born in LAMCO, Yekepa, Nimba County. He is a registered nurse (RN), with an Associate degree from The Stella Maris Polythenic 2006. Emmanuel presently works as a quality assurance officer with Last Mile Health in Grand Bassa County along with the county health team. He supervises community health services supervisors (CHSS) who also cascade supervisory technique to community health assistants (CHA) in the remote communities of Liberia. Emmanuel’s main advocacy is bringing equity in health by balancing health needs between the underserved and those who have access. This has been achieved through partner shipping with the government of Liberia through the National Community Health Assistant program (NCHAP). Emmanuel has been developing the minds of the CHSS, who later provide mentorship for CHAs in remote communities of Liberia to work with their communities in providing quality health services at the peripheral. The goal of Emmanuel is to save life everywhere and everyday, with the mindset that since illness is universal health access should also be.
Erika Valtierra Gutiérrez was born and raised in Mexico City, where she pursued undergraduate studies in psychology and a Master’s degree in counseling at Universidad Iberoamericana. After a couple of years believing that she’d dedicate her life to neurosciences, she chose to work with underserved populations after a weekend as a volunteer in a rural community near home.
Ever since, she has also worked with migrants and asylum seekers, torture survivors and their relatives, people with substance use disorders, and breast cancer patients. She currently works at Compañeros En Salud, where she supervises community mental health workers at five different rural communities where CES serves. She also provides counseling mainly to women who live or survived IPV and other forms of GBV.
Erika can be usually found fidgeting or coloring while listening to others; she’s also easily spotted due to her colorful hair and how loud she laughs. An important part of her life revolves around music, especially going to live shows, dancing, singing, and playing viola. She lives with Papa, her sweet and courageous dog, with whom she spends time playing tug games, running, taking selfies, and (occasionally) hiking. She also enjoys weaving to decorate her home or those of friends and family.
Erika Valtierra Gutiérrez was born and raised in Mexico City, where she pursued undergraduate studies in psychology and a Master’s degree in counseling at Universidad Iberoamericana. After a couple of years believing that she’d dedicate her life to neurosciences, she chose to work with underserved populations after a weekend as a volunteer in a rural community near home.
Ever since, she has also worked with migrants and asylum seekers, torture survivors and their relatives, people with substance use disorders, and breast cancer patients. She currently works at Compañeros En Salud, where she supervises community mental health workers at five different rural communities where CES serves. She also provides counseling mainly to women who live or survived IPV and other forms of GBV.
Erika can be usually found fidgeting or coloring while listening to others; she’s also easily spotted due to her colorful hair and how loud she laughs. An important part of her life revolves around music, especially going to live shows, dancing, singing, and playing viola. She lives with Papa, her sweet and courageous dog, with whom she spends time playing tug games, running, taking selfies, and (occasionally) hiking. She also enjoys weaving to decorate her home or those of friends and family.
George Dalitso Limwado from Malawi, studied Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) at Kamuzu University Health Sciences formerly the University of Malawi, College of Medicine. He is an integrated chronic care clinic (IC3) medical officer where he provides comprehensive assessments and care planning for individuals with chronic conditions such as Hypertension, Diabetes mellitus, chronic lung diseases, mental health diseases and HIV and AIDS.
Before joining PIH, he was a civil servant at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital then later at Salima District Hospital as a Senior medical officer. George is a Young African Leaders Initiative alumnus. His interests are in improving the quality of primary healthcare services, Youth-friendly health services especially focusing on counselling against risks factors on NCDs i.e., tobacco and alcohol abuse, and physical inactivity.
Furthermore, he has an interest in antimicrobial stewardship. One of his achievements, over the years, was upgrading a mentorship program initially aimed at sexual and reproductive health to include surgical care and NCDs at Salima district hospital in Malawi. He likes watching TV especially sports channels and movies, and doing physical exercises.
George Dalitso Limwado from Malawi, studied Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) at Kamuzu University Health Sciences formerly the University of Malawi, College of Medicine. He is an integrated chronic care clinic (IC3) medical officer where he provides comprehensive assessments and care planning for individuals with chronic conditions such as Hypertension, Diabetes mellitus, chronic lung diseases, mental health diseases and HIV and AIDS.
Before joining PIH, he was a civil servant at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital then later at Salima District Hospital as a Senior medical officer. George is a Young African Leaders Initiative alumnus. His interests are in improving the quality of primary healthcare services, Youth-friendly health services especially focusing on counselling against risks factors on NCDs i.e., tobacco and alcohol abuse, and physical inactivity.
Furthermore, he has an interest in antimicrobial stewardship. One of his achievements, over the years, was upgrading a mentorship program initially aimed at sexual and reproductive health to include surgical care and NCDs at Salima district hospital in Malawi. He likes watching TV especially sports channels and movies, and doing physical exercises.
Katherine Fu is originally from West Windsor, New Jersey, the daughter of Chinese immigrants. Her interest in global medicine started during college, in a Global Health and Developmental Policy program in Geneva, Switzerland. There, she completed a field project interviewing women on their birth experiences in varying healthcare systems. She then went on to conduct infectious disease research in medical school as a Doris Duke International Research Fellow in Peru and Bolivia.
Working side by side with local colleagues, she studied the genetic risk factors for developing Chagas disease. These varied global health experiences helped to solidify her interest in collaborative care models and provided the foundation for her interest in global mental health. She completed her residency and fellowship in Adult and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center in 2022. Outside of medicine, she enjoys scuba diving, reading, frequenting thrift shops, and consuming all forms of carbohydrates.
Katherine Fu is originally from West Windsor, New Jersey, the daughter of Chinese immigrants. Her interest in global medicine started during college, in a Global Health and Developmental Policy program in Geneva, Switzerland. There, she completed a field project interviewing women on their birth experiences in varying healthcare systems. She then went on to conduct infectious disease research in medical school as a Doris Duke International Research Fellow in Peru and Bolivia.
Working side by side with local colleagues, she studied the genetic risk factors for developing Chagas disease. These varied global health experiences helped to solidify her interest in collaborative care models and provided the foundation for her interest in global mental health. She completed her residency and fellowship in Adult and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center in 2022. Outside of medicine, she enjoys scuba diving, reading, frequenting thrift shops, and consuming all forms of carbohydrates.
Ka Yi Li (Kiki) was born in Hong Kong. At the age of twelve, her family immigrated to Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love. Growing up in a working class environment, Kiki witnesses firsthand her non-English speaking parents face significant barriers to access health care services. She was inspired to pursue medicine and made a resolute mission to serve the most vulnerable communities in the United States and abroad. She attended Temple University for undergraduate studies where she obtained a major in Biology and a minor in Spanish.
As an AmeriCorps member, she taught English as a Second Language at a Chinese Senior Center. Meanwhile, she deepened her language fluency in Spanish and French while volunteering in Panama and studying in France, respectively. For medical school, she attended Cooper Medical School of Rowan University in Camden, New Jersey. There, she coordinated two Latino Policy Summits with medical students across the country. Next, she completed her residency training in Family Medicine at Boston Medical Center, where she cofounded a residency curriculum in “Immigrant and Refugee Health.”
Through HEAL fellowship, she strives to advocate for the health and human rights of immigrants and refugees in the United States. In her free time, she enjoys singing karaoke, playing video games, dancing salsa and outdoors hiking on short trails.
Ka Yi Li (Kiki) was born in Hong Kong. At the age of twelve, her family immigrated to Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love. Growing up in a working class environment, Kiki witnesses firsthand her non-English speaking parents face significant barriers to access health care services. She was inspired to pursue medicine and made a resolute mission to serve the most vulnerable communities in the United States and abroad. She attended Temple University for undergraduate studies where she obtained a major in Biology and a minor in Spanish.
As an AmeriCorps member, she taught English as a Second Language at a Chinese Senior Center. Meanwhile, she deepened her language fluency in Spanish and French while volunteering in Panama and studying in France, respectively. For medical school, she attended Cooper Medical School of Rowan University in Camden, New Jersey. There, she coordinated two Latino Policy Summits with medical students across the country. Next, she completed her residency training in Family Medicine at Boston Medical Center, where she cofounded a residency curriculum in “Immigrant and Refugee Health.”
Through HEAL fellowship, she strives to advocate for the health and human rights of immigrants and refugees in the United States. In her free time, she enjoys singing karaoke, playing video games, dancing salsa and outdoors hiking on short trails.
Lemekeza Theodorah Namwali was born and raised in Lilongwe Malawi, she did her primary school at Bambino primary schools in Lilongwe and completed her secondary school at Lilongwe girls secondary school. she works as a Nursing officer with Ministry of Health at Neno District hospital in the southern part of Malawi.
Her work as a Nursing officer, global health related issues have always been her passion to reach utmost vulnerable population with essential health equity services around Malawi, such as; communicable and non-communicable diseases, Quality Improvement projects, primary health care programs and social economic support in rural Malawi. Lemekeza has a Bachelor of sciences degree in Nursing, Obtained at University of Malawi, Kamuzu College of nursing (KCN) in the year 2010.
Since graduation she has been working in various public hospitals executing positions such as; safe mother hood programs coordinator, Newborn Health coordinator ,ward in charge, primary health care programs coordinator, community sensitization liaison officer on health seeking behavior, she is also a clinical mentor mainly focusing on the women and newborn health, providing mentorships in rural health centers in order to provide quality and equitable health care services to patients, for the benefit of poor Malawian. The goals of Lemekeza is to provide high quality care to all, regardless of where they are coming from, every life matters and taking service to where they are needed the most.
Lemekeza Theodorah Namwali was born and raised in Lilongwe Malawi, she did her primary school at Bambino primary schools in Lilongwe and completed her secondary school at Lilongwe girls secondary school. she works as a Nursing officer with Ministry of Health at Neno District hospital in the southern part of Malawi.
Her work as a Nursing officer, global health related issues have always been her passion to reach utmost vulnerable population with essential health equity services around Malawi, such as; communicable and non-communicable diseases, Quality Improvement projects, primary health care programs and social economic support in rural Malawi. Lemekeza has a Bachelor of sciences degree in Nursing, Obtained at University of Malawi, Kamuzu College of nursing (KCN) in the year 2010.
Since graduation she has been working in various public hospitals executing positions such as; safe mother hood programs coordinator, Newborn Health coordinator ,ward in charge, primary health care programs coordinator, community sensitization liaison officer on health seeking behavior, she is also a clinical mentor mainly focusing on the women and newborn health, providing mentorships in rural health centers in order to provide quality and equitable health care services to patients, for the benefit of poor Malawian. The goals of Lemekeza is to provide high quality care to all, regardless of where they are coming from, every life matters and taking service to where they are needed the most.
Michaela Louise Sous is originally from northern California. She received her undergraduate degree in French from Cornell University and her medical degree from Des Moines University in Iowa. She participated in the Global Health Pathways of Distinction program completing research internships at the World Health Organization. She gained valuable clinical experience in India, Dominican Republic, Uganda, and Rwanda.
Michaela led diversity health and social justice training through her medical school’s Multicultural Affairs department where she met her now husband (Waseem Sous – also a 2022-2024 HEAL fellow). They participated in the couple’s match for residency where they trained at SUNY Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, New York. In OB/GYN residency, Michaela showed a keen interest in optimizing the birth experience for marginalized populations, especially newly resettled refugees.
She devised projects to increase the quality of care for patients with limited English proficiency by optimizing the use of interpreters. She investigated pregnancy intendedness in patients with chronic medical conditions. Her career interests include health equity, global health, family planning, reproductive justice, and medical education. She looks forward to working with like-minded individuals in the HEAL community to advocate for equitable healthcare. Outside of medicine, Michaela enjoys traveling with her husband, cooking vegetarian food, skiing, and watching The Amazing Race.
Michaela Louise Sous is originally from northern California. She received her undergraduate degree in French from Cornell University and her medical degree from Des Moines University in Iowa. She participated in the Global Health Pathways of Distinction program completing research internships at the World Health Organization. She gained valuable clinical experience in India, Dominican Republic, Uganda, and Rwanda.
Michaela led diversity health and social justice training through her medical school’s Multicultural Affairs department where she met her now husband (Waseem Sous – also a 2022-2024 HEAL fellow). They participated in the couple’s match for residency where they trained at SUNY Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, New York. In OB/GYN residency, Michaela showed a keen interest in optimizing the birth experience for marginalized populations, especially newly resettled refugees.
She devised projects to increase the quality of care for patients with limited English proficiency by optimizing the use of interpreters. She investigated pregnancy intendedness in patients with chronic medical conditions. Her career interests include health equity, global health, family planning, reproductive justice, and medical education. She looks forward to working with like-minded individuals in the HEAL community to advocate for equitable healthcare. Outside of medicine, Michaela enjoys traveling with her husband, cooking vegetarian food, skiing, and watching The Amazing Race.
Noelani R Sells is from Rough Rock, Arizona. Her clans are Chishi (Chiricahua Apache), born for Tlogi (Weavers Clan), her maternal grandfather is Tsi’naajinii (Blackstreak clan) and her paternal grandfather is Honaghaahnii (One of walk around clan). She received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Fort Lewis College.
Noelani currently works for Chinle Comprehensive Healthcare Facility in the Integrated Behavioral Health Department as a Behavioral Health Coach. She has worked in her community aiding and advocating mental health and wellness over the last 14 years. Noelani enjoys traveling, hiking, running, camping, horseback riding and spending time with her family.
Noelani R Sells is from Rough Rock, Arizona. Her clans are Chishi (Chiricahua Apache), born for Tlogi (Weavers Clan), her maternal grandfather is Tsi’naajinii (Blackstreak clan) and her paternal grandfather is Honaghaahnii (One of walk around clan). She received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Fort Lewis College.
Noelani currently works for Chinle Comprehensive Healthcare Facility in the Integrated Behavioral Health Department as a Behavioral Health Coach. She has worked in her community aiding and advocating mental health and wellness over the last 14 years. Noelani enjoys traveling, hiking, running, camping, horseback riding and spending time with her family.
Raj Kumar Dangal, A General Practitioner, born in rural Nepal, has been working for rural populations for more than 10 years. He completed his undergraduate medical school from Hebei Medical University, China, in year 2010; and Post-graduate training in MDGP from Institute of Medicine (IOM), Nepal. His growing up in rural areas till high school brought him up to intend to serve most for rural communities from early childhood.
Later on, it became a passion, more than anything. So, staying in own country and trying to build up much things for long term development of rural health care for own rural communities became his priority. He thinks learning through close interactions and co-operation with diverse group of people from around the world is the one what can make oneself more empowered and more practical one. Keep on going is the his dictum.
Raj Kumar Dangal, A General Practitioner, born in rural Nepal, has been working for rural populations for more than 10 years. He completed his undergraduate medical school from Hebei Medical University, China, in year 2010; and Post-graduate training in MDGP from Institute of Medicine (IOM), Nepal. His growing up in rural areas till high school brought him up to intend to serve most for rural communities from early childhood.
Later on, it became a passion, more than anything. So, staying in own country and trying to build up much things for long term development of rural health care for own rural communities became his priority. He thinks learning through close interactions and co-operation with diverse group of people from around the world is the one what can make oneself more empowered and more practical one. Keep on going is the his dictum.
Shanna Rose Nez is of the Red House people clan, born for Water edge people clan. She is originally from Rock Point Arizona. She lives in Chinle, Arizona with her family. Currently she is doing her pre-requisitions for her nursing degree. Shanna works for Chinle Comprehensive Healthcare facility with the Public Health Nursing Diabetes program.
She has been with the Diabetes program for 10 years working as a Diabetes health coach. Bridging the gap between providers and patients, and being an advocate for her community. She is very pleased and humbled to be part of the HEAL initiative family. She values family time, enjoys indoor and outdoor life.
Shanna Rose Nez is of the Red House people clan, born for Water edge people clan. She is originally from Rock Point Arizona. She lives in Chinle, Arizona with her family. Currently she is doing her pre-requisitions for her nursing degree. Shanna works for Chinle Comprehensive Healthcare facility with the Public Health Nursing Diabetes program.
She has been with the Diabetes program for 10 years working as a Diabetes health coach. Bridging the gap between providers and patients, and being an advocate for her community. She is very pleased and humbled to be part of the HEAL initiative family. She values family time, enjoys indoor and outdoor life.
Timothee Fabrice Fruhauf was born in France and grew up in the CA Bay Area. In undergrad, he discovered the reach of public health interventions for resource restricted settings and shifted his focus from political science towards health as a means to international development.
His commitment to international health was confirmed when he joined a team to develop and launch a data collection platform that focused on getting real-time, accurate data directly into the hands of stakeholders in several countries of sub-Saharan Africa and South-East Asia with the Bill & Melinda Gates Institute.
Yearning for a more direct impact on communities, he enrolled in medical school at Johns Hopkins and became inspired by the needs of marginalized women in Baltimore. Committed to improving women’s health, he completed residency in OB-GYN at Hopkins and obtained an MPH to combine his clinical skills with public health approaches. He’s excited to join the HEAL community to continue acquiring skills to advocate for underserved women both locally and globally.
Timothee Fabrice Fruhauf was born in France and grew up in the CA Bay Area. In undergrad, he discovered the reach of public health interventions for resource restricted settings and shifted his focus from political science towards health as a means to international development.
His commitment to international health was confirmed when he joined a team to develop and launch a data collection platform that focused on getting real-time, accurate data directly into the hands of stakeholders in several countries of sub-Saharan Africa and South-East Asia with the Bill & Melinda Gates Institute.
Yearning for a more direct impact on communities, he enrolled in medical school at Johns Hopkins and became inspired by the needs of marginalized women in Baltimore. Committed to improving women’s health, he completed residency in OB-GYN at Hopkins and obtained an MPH to combine his clinical skills with public health approaches. He’s excited to join the HEAL community to continue acquiring skills to advocate for underserved women both locally and globally.
Waseem Jamal Sous grew up in Amman, Jordan. He moved to the United States at age 18 to pursue his dream of practicing medicine. As a first-generation college student, he received his B.S. in Biology from North Park University in Chicago. Waseem received his medical degree from Des Moines University in Iowa, where he met his wife (Michaela Sous – also a 2022-2024 HEAL fellow!) and developed an interest in global health.
Waseem advocated for awareness of health disparities and led discussions about culturally preconceived notions. He participated in clinical rotations in Uganda and Rwanda where he learned valuable skills of innovation in resource-denied areas. These clinical experiences energized him to continue his work in global health equity. Waseem moved to Syracuse, NY, alongside his wife, to complete his residency in Internal Medicine. As an ambulatory chief resident, he engaged in outreach efforts to advocate for marginalized communities.
Waseem provided a platform for Arabic-speaking communities to ask COVID-19 vaccine-related questions and assisted in the implementation of COVID-19 screening, outreach, and support to local refugee communities. Outside of work, Waseem enjoys working out, playing soccer (Go Real Madrid!), trying new cuisines, and travelling with his wife. He is humbled and excited for the opportunity to care for underserved populations in the San Francisco Bay Area and rural Malawi.
Waseem Jamal Sous grew up in Amman, Jordan. He moved to the United States at age 18 to pursue his dream of practicing medicine. As a first-generation college student, he received his B.S. in Biology from North Park University in Chicago. Waseem received his medical degree from Des Moines University in Iowa, where he met his wife (Michaela Sous – also a 2022-2024 HEAL fellow!) and developed an interest in global health.
Waseem advocated for awareness of health disparities and led discussions about culturally preconceived notions. He participated in clinical rotations in Uganda and Rwanda where he learned valuable skills of innovation in resource-denied areas. These clinical experiences energized him to continue his work in global health equity. Waseem moved to Syracuse, NY, alongside his wife, to complete his residency in Internal Medicine. As an ambulatory chief resident, he engaged in outreach efforts to advocate for marginalized communities.
Waseem provided a platform for Arabic-speaking communities to ask COVID-19 vaccine-related questions and assisted in the implementation of COVID-19 screening, outreach, and support to local refugee communities. Outside of work, Waseem enjoys working out, playing soccer (Go Real Madrid!), trying new cuisines, and travelling with his wife. He is humbled and excited for the opportunity to care for underserved populations in the San Francisco Bay Area and rural Malawi.
Zeus Aranda Remon, originally from Vidreres, Spain, studied Biotechnology at the University of Girona. Subsequently, he completed Master’s programs in Biomedical Research, International Business Administration, and Global Health.
In 2017 he started collaborating with diverse governments, health facilities, academic institutions, and non-governmental organizations to assess the impact of social determinants on health outcomes, conduct implementation research, and perform monitoring and evaluation activities in Spain, Nigeria, Tanzania, South Africa, and Mexico. He started his labor at Partners In Health Mexico in 2019 and is currently the CES Research and Impact Coordinator. Zeus has a special interest in maternal, child, and reproductive health. In his spare time, he enjoys acquiring new knowledge and skills, going out with family and friends, and admiring nature.
Zeus Aranda Remon, originally from Vidreres, Spain, studied Biotechnology at the University of Girona. Subsequently, he completed Master’s programs in Biomedical Research, International Business Administration, and Global Health.
In 2017 he started collaborating with diverse governments, health facilities, academic institutions, and non-governmental organizations to assess the impact of social determinants on health outcomes, conduct implementation research, and perform monitoring and evaluation activities in Spain, Nigeria, Tanzania, South Africa, and Mexico. He started his labor at Partners In Health Mexico in 2019 and is currently the CES Research and Impact Coordinator. Zeus has a special interest in maternal, child, and reproductive health. In his spare time, he enjoys acquiring new knowledge and skills, going out with family and friends, and admiring nature.
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