Iyanuoluwa Odole (26), Nigerian, is pursuing a Master’s degree in Public Health at Yale University, specializing in Chronic Disease Epidemiology and Global Health. Iyanuoluwa’s objective is to reduce health disparities in cancer prevention and control.
Iyanuoluwa's commitment to improving women's health has been reflected in her community and research work. She was elected Health Minister of her residence hall, where she was tasked with the responsibility of managing primary healthcare for 900 female residents. One of her greatest accomplishments was collaborating and partnering with the Multidisciplinary Tumor Board for breast examination and screening for the female residents.
Working as a data specialist at 54gene on a nationwide research study gave Iyanuoluwa the opportunity to contribute to the inclusion of African genomic data in global research. She also worked with a team to provide menstrual products to over 200 girls in a rural community and female prisoners with limited access to hygienic products and menstrual health education, as well as raise awareness about female genital mutilation (FGM) and early childhood marriage. In recognition of her outstanding community service and leadership qualities while also maintaining academic excellence, she was awarded the Provost Award by her medical college.
Iyanuoluwa’s career plan is to lead and conduct innovative cancer research for cancer prevention and control. Her goal is to ultimately improve health outcomes and effect change in the Nigerian healthcare system, in Africa, and globally.
