Sheila's journey: pioneering health research in sub-Saharan Africa
In a world where gender disparities in academia remain prevalent, Dr Sheila Agyeiwaa Owusu’s journey serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring female researchers in sub-Saharan Africa. A TALENT Programme Fellow from Ghana, Sheila is currently pursuing her PhD at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine.
Early inspirations
Sheila’s passion for medicine was ignited during her formative years. She recalls, “While visiting my mother at work one day (a nurse) on the ward, I saw a tiny baby in a machine (a preterm baby in an incubator) and started asking her questions when she returned home. It was fascinating, and my desire to pursue medicine began to develop.”
Following her basic education at Duayaw-Nkwanta Local Authority Junior High School, Sheila excelled in science at Yaa Asantewaa Senior High School. Despite her initial hesitations regarding biology, her uncle’s encouragement regarding a medical career set her on the path to becoming a doctor. She completed her medical training at the University for Development Studies and pursued a pediatric residency with the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons.
A shift towards research
Sheila’s transition from clinical practice to research was driven by her realisation of the data gaps in her field. “To my surprise, most of the epidemiological data, whether from our hospital or Ghana, were often missing. This sparked my curiosity to learn more and present our findings,” she explains. This curiosity led her to assist a mentor in data collection, paving the way for her to apply for master’s programs in public health.
The TALENT Fellowship
In 2020, EDCTP2 launched a dedicated PhD fellowship scheme aimed at supporting women in health research across sub-Saharan Africa. Coordinated by the EDCTP Networks of Excellence, this initiative received funding from the UK National Institute for Health and Care Research (Department of Health and Social Care). Sheila was among the 32 researchers who benefited from this initiative.
She expresses her gratitude for the TALENT programme, stating, “When I discovered the TALENT fellowship programme, I saw more than a scholarship for further study. I saw an opportunity to help children live longer, healthier lives through faster diagnosis and better care. And I took it with both hands.” The programme’s structure, which includes no age restrictions and which has provisions for maternity leave, resonates deeply with Sheila and her peers, as many women are often forced to choose between family and education.
Overcoming challenges
Sheila acknowledges the hurdles faced by women in science, particularly in balancing career aspirations with family responsibilities. She states, “In health research, many female researchers are challenged with finding the right programmes that will allow a balance between career and family life.”
To combat these challenges, she advocates for systemic changes in academia, emphasising the need for mentorship: “Mentorship should not be left to chance. We must reach out and pull others up. Programs like the TALENT women’s PhD are not a ‘nice to do’; they are the blueprint for true equality in science.”
Looking ahead
Her aspirations are clear: to advance to senior academic positions, lead impactful research programmes, and inspire future generations of female scientists. “Define success for yourself by considering what is important to you at every point, and don’t be put in a box,” she advises young women considering a career in health research.
Dr Sheila Agyeiwaa Owusu’s journey is a testament to resilience, passion, and the power of mentorship. As she continues to break down barriers and pave the way for women in health research, her story highlights the critical role of funding opportunities specifically targeted at women. Such initiatives not only support their academic pursuits but also empower them to thrive in their fields. With sustained investment in female researchers, we can foster a more inclusive and equitable environment in health research, allowing women to reach their full potential and drive meaningful change.