I was eight when I saw my grandfather grab his chest and fall. I did not know what a heart attack was then, but I remember feeling helpless waiting for the ambulance. That changed everything—it opened my eyes to the field of medicine and gave me a lasting aspiration: never to feel helpless again when confronted by health emergencies. Now, that aspiration gets me pumped up for medicine and motivates me as a young businessperson who is ready to make a concrete impact.
As a high school student, I have seized every chance to learn about healthcare, from shadowing local doctors to volunteering in clinics. But the more I learned, the more I started to see something that horrified me: the inequality of access to essential health equipment, especially for those communities that are under-resourced. There are some families that can pay for intelligent health monitors to measure heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels. There are other families that cannot even get basic check-ups. That's not a difference; that's an issue. That's where I started my business concept.
I want to create affordable, user-friendly health monitoring equipment that anyone, regardless of their income level, can use to get early warnings of heart disease and other chronic conditions.
My goal is not to create new technology, but to create new methods of delivering it. I'm designing an easy-to-use, low-tech wearable device made from recycled materials and open-source hardware. I plan to work with local non-profits in the distribution of these devices and the education of families on how to effectively use them.
This is not a business, but a mission to eliminate the health gap and equip every household with the means to keep their loved ones secure.
To prepare, I advanced in science courses, entered business programs, and even pitched my concept at a youth business competition in my area, where I was awarded first prize. Through these experiences, I learned that innovation isn't only about ideas—it's about persevering, learning from failures, and constantly thinking of making a difference. I also learned how to be creative while being practical: the best solutions are those that people can actually use.
I believe that entrepreneurship is a powerful means of creating impact. Through it, I wish to merge my passion for medicine with innovation, creating solutions that can scale and center around humans. I don't merely wish to be a physician who treats patients one at a time—I want to be the one who corrects the system for everyone. This scholarship would enable me to finalize my prototype, go to medical and engineering workshops, and meet mentors who would be able to help me. Above all, it would make possible a simple idea that I believe is true: age doesn't define impact—purpose and determination do. One day, I hope to lead a company that creates affordable medical technology and distributes it to those who need it most. For now, though, I am just a student with a story, a dream, and an unshakeable determination to ensure that no one else will ever have to feel powerless when someone you love is in danger.
Entrepreneurship, for me, is not just about business and profits; it's about making a meaningful impact on society while staying true to my values and experiences. If I could impart wisdom to my younger self and others, it would be the importance of self-love and resilience in the face of societal pressures and controversies. In today's world, it's all too easy to get distracted by what society deems as the "right" path. However, I firmly believe that staying focused on one's dreams and never letting anyone dictate what can or cannot be achieved are key to personal and professional success.
As a young Black woman navigating today's society, I am acutely aware of the challenges in having one's voice heard and respected. The journey often demands working harder and pushing through barriers that others may not face. Yet, I refuse to let these obstacles define me or limit my aspirations. Instead, they serve as motivation to excel and create opportunities not only for myself but for other women of color striving to make their mark in leadership and entrepreneurship.
My entrepreneurial journey is anchored in a commitment to empower women of color, creating pathways for them to thrive and lead. Through my ventures, I aim to foster environments where diverse voices are not just welcomed but celebrated. This commitment extends beyond mere inclusivity; it embodies a dedication to equity, ensuring that opportunities are accessible and barriers are dismantled for all aspiring leaders, regardless of background or identity.
Central to my mission is the acknowledgment and celebration of Black history and the trailblazers who paved the way before us. Despite the systemic gaps in education, particularly in the comprehensive teaching of Black history, it is incumbent upon us to seek out and amplify these narratives. By understanding and honoring our heritage, we gain a deeper appreciation of the struggles and triumphs that have shaped our present reality. More importantly, we draw inspiration from the resilience and achievements of those who defied the odds and made significant contributions to various fields and movements.
Entrepreneurship provides a platform not only to build businesses but also to drive social change and challenge existing norms. By integrating principles of equity and inclusion into my business practices, I strive to set an example and inspire others to do the same. This includes advocating for fair representation in leadership positions, fostering mentorship opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs from marginalized communities, and championing policies that promote diversity within organizations.
Moreover, I recognize the power of collaboration and collective action in effecting lasting change. By forging partnerships with like-minded individuals, organizations, and stakeholders, I amplify the impact of my initiatives and contribute to broader movements aimed at advancing social justice and equality. Together, we can leverage our resources, expertise, and networks to create sustainable solutions to systemic challenges and create a more inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
In conclusion, entrepreneurship for me is a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and social responsibility. It is about using my platform and resources to not only achieve personal success but also to uplift and empower others, particularly women of color who continue to face unique barriers in their pursuit of success. By staying true to my values, honoring the lessons of history, and embracing the power of collective action, I am committed to making a positive impact that extends far beyond business metrics—shaping a future where diversity is celebrated, equity is upheld, and opportunities are accessible to all.
