ABOUT THE MILLENNIUM FELLOWSHIP - CLASS OF 2024
United Nations Academic Impact and MCN are proud to partner on the Millennium Fellowship. This year, 52,000+ young leaders applied to join the Class of 2024 on 6,000+ campuses across 170 nations. 280+ campuses worldwide (just 5%) were selected to host the 4,000+ Millennium Fellows.
UNITED NATIONS ACADEMIC IMPACT AND MCN PROUDLY PRESENT IHEANYI CHINYERE ESTHER, A MILLENNIUM FELLOW FOR THE CLASS OF 2024.
Nnamdi Azikiwe University Nnewi | Nnewi, Nigeria | Advancing SDG 3, SDG 4 & UNAI 3
" I'm thrilled to be a Millennium Fellow because it empowers me to amplify my passion for data-driven healthcare solutions. I believe that informed decisions can transform lives, and I'm dedicated to uncovering insights that address preventable health issues born from ignorance. Through my work, I strive to bridge the knowledge gap, ensuring that data-informed decisions become the cornerstone of healthcare practices, and ultimately, improve patient outcomes. "
Millennium Fellowship Project: Genoaware × Sickle Cell Disease
Sickle Cell Anaemia (SCA), a genetic disorder, poses a significant health burden in Nigeria, with approximately 150,000 babies born annually with the condition. The alarming rate can be attributed to genotype-incompatible partnerships, often resulting from lack of awareness or education. To address this issue, our project focuses on educating high school students in Anambra State on the importance of knowing their genotype, empowering them to make informed choices about compatible life partners.
SCA affects millions worldwide including Nigeria . The disease causes immense suffering, from chronic pain and anemia to increased risk of infections and premature death. The economic and social implications are equally devastating, straining healthcare resources and impacting families
Our Project themed 'GenoAware X Sickle cell Awareness' is promoting the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3 - Good health and wellbeing. Our project aims to educate over 100 secondary school students and adults in Anambra State on:
1. Understanding genotypes (AA, AS, SS) and their implications.
2. Recognizing the risks associated with genotype-incompatible partnerships.
3. Emphasizing the importance of knowing one's genotype.
4. Encouraging responsible decision-making in choosing compatible life partners.
5. Provide comprehensive information on sickle cell disease
6. Debunk common myths surrounding sickle cell patients
7. Address stigmatization and promote inclusivity. Millennium Fellows of 2024, Iheanyi Chinyere Esther and Anarah Ogochukwu Rejoice collaborated to curb to this issue by visiting Jesus the way international school, Anambra state to educate young minds, also equally talking to some members of the community on the importance of knowing their genotype hence breaking the cycle of SCA transmission. Our project offers a proactive solution, fostering a generation of informed individuals capable of making responsible choices. Together, we can combat sickle cell anaemia and create a healthier future for Nigeria.
My team member and I worked as a team and jointly made key decisions to ensure the success of this project promoting effective communication and informed partnerships.
About the Millennium Fellow
Here's a polished version of Esther's biography:
Iheanyi Chinyere Esther is a dedicated Medical Laboratory Science Student of Nnamdi Azikiwe University with a fervent passion for advancing healthcare through research and data analysis. Her fascination with data analysis in health stems from a desire to harness data-driven insights, informing clinical decision-making and elevating healthcare quality.
With a keen interest in addressing preventable health issues born from ignorance, Esther is driven to uncover solutions through meticulous research and analysis. Her academic pursuits are guided by a commitment to excellence, and she is determined to make a meaningful impact in the healthcare sector.
Through her studies and research endeavors, Esther aims to bridge the knowledge gap, ensuring that data-informed decisions become the cornerstone of healthcare practices. Her ultimate goal is to become a leading researcher and healthcare professional, leveraging data analysis to drive transformative improvements in patient care and healthcare delivery.
