We recently had the pleasure of chatting to Ramat (Class of 2016), who is currently in her final year at Warwick Medical School.  Ramat, a recent Finalist in the Women of the Future Programme, Community Spirit Award, which recognises and celebrates the achievements of the UK’s female talent.

This is a fantastic achievement Ramat, can you tell us more about your journey since leaving BGS?

Since leaving BGS, I have completed a Biomedical Sciences degree at St Georges, University of London. After graduating in 2019, I started studying Graduate-Entry Medicine at Warwick Medical School, where I am currently in my final year. Throughout my studies I have been involved with lots of volunteering organisations.

Ramat, you have been active throughout your young adult life advocating for others. Outside of your medical studies you have dedicated yourself to some incredibly important causes, please tell us more about your work with Student Action for Refugees, which you are the Founder and President.

Influenced by an innate desire to support people in vulnerable situations, I volunteered with charities in Calais helping refugee populations, before starting medical school in September 2019. A truly harrowing experience, the lack of basic human rights was difficult to witness and motivated me to establish a branch of the national charity, Student Action for Refugees (STAR) at medical school. As President, I increased awareness of challenges faced by refugees and asylum seekers. This was recognised by CEO of STAR National, who awarded the society a Bronze Comet Award in 2021.

Since then, we have started volunteering with a local partner charity to deliver first aid awareness sessions to refugees and asylum seeker populations.

Whilst at university you have also worked as an Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Officer and Campaigns Officer, what advice would you give to BGS alumni currently at university eager to get involved in community projects?

At university there are so many opportunities to get involved with a vast array of different projects. Think about what drives and motivates you and keep an eye out for opportunities to showcase your passion and skill. Many societies are involved with volunteering or fundraising in one way or another, and joining a committee is a great way to not only get involved but to be able to gain experience and build up your CV. Keep an eye out for opportunities outside of university too, particularly in national charities or NGOs as they are always looking for student representatives and often have roles with varying commitments from a student ambassador to a student trustee. If you don’t see an existing society or community project that interests you, don’t be afraid to start one!

Where do you hope to be in the future?

As a member of the Nigerian diaspora, I have always found it difficult to ignore the differences in healthcare between the UK and Nigeria. Witnessing patients die due to inadequate funding during a work experience placement in Nigeria ignited my fight against health inequalities.  Completing an Extended Project Qualification apropos Nigerians’ mistrust of western healthcare revealed the root of some of these health inequalities and related politics. My passion for global health inspires me to pursue a career in international humanitarian aid where I hope to use my skills as a doctor to influence compassionate and inclusive policy and training procedures.

When you look back at your time at BGS, what are some of your fondest memories?

I have many fond memories from my time at BGS, it’s hard to narrow it down. As an avid performer, I loved participating in the musicals – a particular memory that springs to mind was my performance as Miss Hannigan in the 2016 school production of Annie. I also loved how big celebrations like Founders Day and Prizegiving showcased the school spirit. I hope traditions such as the house music competition and the fab lollies on sports day have continued!