Carrying on a legacy

For Ameerah Abayomi, medicine is not just a career choice; it’s a calling deeply rooted in family bonds and her older brother Bilal’s enduring legacy.

The Barry Wint Memorial Scholarship recipient sat down, and shared her journey of inspiration, loss, and determination at the scholarship ceremony held at the AC hotel on August 30 ahead of her embarking on her journey into medicine at the University of The West Indies, Mona.

The Abayomi family emigrated to Jamaica from Turks and Caicos in Ameerah’s early years. She remembers coming to the island when just as she was leaving basic school. Her Jamaican academic journey began at the Half-Way Tree Primary School from where she earned her place at the school that was her first choice, Immaculate Conception High School. During her years at Immaculate she developed a passion for the sciences and the humanities discipline, social studies.

Her love for the subjects; physics, chemistry and biology evolved into a desire to enter the field of medicine. However, it was truly Ameerah’s admiration for her brother’s passion and dedication to medicine that set the foundation for her aspirations. “My brother and I shared a close bond, and I always admired his passion and dedication to medicine,” she reflected. “Watching him navigate his journey with such commitment inspired me to follow a similar path.

His experiences and the impact he had on others made me realise the difference a career in medicine can make.The path however, has not been easy. In April of 2023, her brother passed, bringing with it significant emotional and financial challenges to her family.

“His loss was a devastating blow,” Ameerah shared. “It took time to navigate life without him.” However, the Barry Wint Memorial Scholarship provided more than just financial relief; it also offered emotional solace. “The scholarship feels like a recognition of my brother’s legacy and a way to honour him by continuing the path he started. It has alleviated some financial burdens, allowing my family and me to focus more on healing and my education.”

BEACON OF HOPE

Carrying her brother’s legacy forward is a responsibility that Ameerah embraces wholeheartedly. “Every step I take in my medical career is not just for me but for him as well,” she says. “It motivates me to strive for excellence and to make a meaningful impact in medicine, just as he intended to do.”

Ameerah’s introduction to the Barry Wint Memorial Scholarship came serendipitously. “I first came across the scholarship when a friend sent it to me through social media. It was a moment of surprise and connection as if this opportunity had found me at the perfect time.” Her selection as a scholarship recipient was met with a profound sense of disbelief and gratitude. “It was a moment of relief and validation, knowing that my hard work was being honoured in such a meaningful way. The scholarship felt like a beacon of hope amidst the challenges I had faced.”

As she continues her studies, Ameerah is driven by a vision to impact the health sector, particularly in the social aspects of medicine. “I want to work on bridging the gap between healthcare providers and underserved communities, ensuring everyone has access to quality care. My goal is to contribute to a more compassionate and inclusive healthcare system, where social determinants of health are addressed with as much importance as clinical care.”

The scholarship has also expanded her perspective on what she can achieve in her medical career. “It has shown me that with determination and support, even the most challenging circumstances can be overcome,” she notes. “The scholarship has encouraged me to aim higher and to believe that I can make a significant impact in the field of medicine, no matter the obstacles.”

NOBLE PATH

As an introvert, Ameerah approaches the challenges and opportunities of medical school with careful preparation and reflection. “I find strength in my ability to listen, observe, and empathise – qualities that are important in medicine. While the social aspects of medical school can be challenging, I see them as opportunities to grow and step out of my comfort zone, all while staying true to who I am.”

To other students facing loss or hardship, Ameerah offers words of encouragement. “Never lose sight of your purpose. Your experiences, no matter how painful, can become a source of strength and resilience. Surround yourself with people who support you, and seek out opportunities that can help lighten your load.”

Looking ahead, Ameerah is determined to honour her brother’s memory throughout her medical career. “I plan to embody the values he instilled in me: compassion, perseverance, and dedication. Whether through patient care, community involvement, or medical research, I am committed to making a positive impact in his name and ensuring that his legacy continues to inspire others.”

Ameerah Abayomi’s journey is a testament to the power of love, resilience, and the enduring impact of a brother’s legacy. As she navigates the challenges of medical school and beyond, she does so with a deep sense of purpose, knowing that every step she takes is a tribute to the brother who inspired her to pursue this noble path.