Story
Hello everyone,
I’m Risata, some of you may know me as Abena.
I’m incredibly grateful to share that I’ve been accepted to pursue a Master’s in Public Health at my dream institution, Harvard University. This opportunity is truly life-changing, and I’m excited to grow in knowledge, build global connections, and develop the skills needed to help improve healthcare systems in the UK and across developing nations.
However, I need your help!
The cost of studying in the US is extremely high and scholarship options are limited. I have until the end of May 2026 to raise enough funds to confirm my place and begin the programme this year. Any donation, big or small, or simply sharing this with your network would mean so much.
A little about me:
I was born and raised in Ghana and moved to the UK at a young age. Growing up in a working class family and attending state schools in North London, I pursued medicine because I wanted the skills to help people anywhere in the world. Against all odds, I was blessed to graduate from Imperial College Medical School as the first doctor in my family.
I currently work in the NHS in sexual health and HIV medicine. I’m deeply passionate about addressing health inequalities, particularly those affecting women, ethnic minorities, and marginalised communities. This has led me to be involved in education and outreach initiatives, including work with organisations such as the BEES Initiative addressing sexual and reproductive health disparities.
Growing up in Ghana, I witnessed first hand how healthcare system failures cost lives, including within my own family. These experiences drive my desire to learn from global health leaders and develop solutions that improve access, equity, and outcomes worldwide.
What the money is going towards
Harvard’s estimated cost of attendance is $104,894, covering tuition, accommodation, and course expenses. I am fortunate to have received a scholarship of ~$17000 from Harvard, leaving ~$88,000 remaining to cover. As someone already carrying significant student debt, I hope to minimise taking further loans if possible.
If you’re able to donate and/or share this with others, I would be very grateful and may God bless you as you do so.
Thank you so much for your kindness and support.
If you would like to read more, click on the link to my Canva presentation below;
