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 recent Barry Wint Memorial Scholarship recipient shared her journey of inspiration, loss and determination at the recent scholarship award ceremony, before going into medicine at The University of the West Indies.

The Abayomi family immigrated to Jamaica from Turks and Caicos in Ameerah’s early years. She remembers coming to the island when she was leaving basic school.

Her Jamaican academic journey began at Half Way Tree Primary School, before advancing to Immaculate Conception High School where she developed a passion for the sciences and the humanities.

Ameerah’s love for physics, chemistry and biology evolved into a desire to enter the field of medicine. However, it was her admiration for her brother’s love of medicine that laid the foundation for her aspirations.

“My brother and I shared a close bond, and I always admired his passion and dedication to medicine,” Ameerah 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,” she added.

The path, however, has not been easy. In April of 2023 her then medical intern brother passed, bringing significant emotional and financial challenges to Ameerah and her family.

“His loss was a devastating blow. It took time to navigate life without him,” Ameerah shared.

She pointed out that the Barry Wint Memorial Scholarship provided more than just financial relief; it also offered emotional solace.

“The scholarship feels like 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,” she said.

Carrying her brother’s legacy forward is a responsibility she embraces wholeheartedly.

“Every step I take in my medical career is not just for me but for him as well. It motivates me to strive for excellence and to make a meaningful impact in medicine — just as he intended to do,” Ameerah said.

Her 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,” said Ameerah as she pointed out that her selection 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,” she said.

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 health-care providers and underserved communities, ensuring everyone has access to quality care. My goal is to contribute to a more compassionate and inclusive health-care system where social determinants of health are addressed with as much importance as clinical care,” said Ameerah.

She noted that 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. 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.”

As an introvert Ameerah is approaching 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,” she said.

To other students facing loss or hardship, Ameerah offered 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, she 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,” said Ameerah.