Naomi Kalungwe
Naomi Kalungwe, a 24-year-old law student with Congolese roots, is making her mark in Belgium not just academically but as a fervent advocate for sickle cell anemia awareness. As the president of a youth-led sickle cell association, Naomi’s initiatives extend beyond mere support; they are a lifeline for patients navigating the complexities of social life while managing this condition. Her commitment to shedding light on sickle cell anemia through her upcoming book is just one facet of her multifaceted approach to advocacy. Naomi’s activism also spans the political arena, where she champions causes such as gender equality, education, and the rights of Afrodescendant communities. At the heart of her endeavors is a profound belief in the transformative power of education and equality, especially in addressing health disparities like sickle cell anemia. Naomi’s passion for effecting societal change is a beacon of hope, illustrating her unwavering commitment to not only improving the lives of those affected by sickle cell anemia but also advocating for broader social issues that impact communities worldwide.
More about Naomi Kalungwe: Here.
Faith Adjei-Sarpong
Faith Adjei-Sarpong stands as a dynamic force in the sickle cell disease (SCD) community, blending her Ghanaian-American heritage with a fervent commitment to advocacy. Born into the vibrant city of Houston, Texas, Faith’s life has been deeply influenced by the complexities of living with SCD. Her journey into advocacy was sparked by personal encounters with healthcare challenges and societal misconceptions about SCD. Currently on a path to further her impact through a Master of Public Health degree and aspirations for medical school, Faith is actively involved with organizations like Sick Cells and the Sickle Cell Association of Houston, where she serves in leadership roles. Her advocacy transcends raising awareness; it’s a call to action against systemic inequities in healthcare, including racism, sexism, and religious bias, particularly in the treatment of SCD and chronic pain. Utilizing social media as a platform, Faith shares her story and educational content on SCD, cultivating a supportive community. Her dedication to this cause reflects not only a desire for change but also her resilience and hope, positioning her as a beacon for many in the fight against SCD.
More about Faith Adjei-Sarpong: Here.
Isaac ”Izzy” Williams
Isaac Williams, artistically known as Izzy, is a Queens-based visual artist who intricately weaves his life experiences with sickle cell disease into his art. Growing up in a vibrant household of six, with roots deeply embedded in Ghanaian and Nigerian cultures, Isaac was immersed in a world where art took various forms, from dance and fashion to film. This eclectic upbringing, coupled with his personal battles with sickle cell disease, which led to numerous visits to Cohen Children’s Medical Center, did not deter his spirit. Instead, it fueled his creative passions, drawing inspiration from a diverse range of influences including Michael Jackson, Harry Potter, video games, and comic books. Izzy’s work is a testament to his resilience, embodying a unique fusion of his African heritage and a broad spectrum of creative influences that continue to shape his artistic journey.|
More about Isaac
”Izzy”
Williams: Here.