The future of healthcare in Africa doesn’t just depend on new technology; it depends on the people who manage the laboratories providing the data for life-saving decisions. This year, BIOMED Connect, in partnership with the Africa Laboratory Management Academy (ALMA) and AFROMED Quality Health Alliance, took a massive step toward securing that future by graduating its latest cohort of the Africa Lab Leadership BootCamp (ALLB).
Across four intensive weeks in late 2025, a group of dedicated biomedical professionals transitioned from being technical experts to becoming visionary leaders. Today, we celebrate the Class of 2025.
News Outline
Meeting the 2025 Fellows
The 2025 cohort brought together a diverse group of early-career biomedical scientists, students, and graduates from across the continent. These fellows participated in a blended virtual learning experience designed to bridge the gap between “bench work” and “leadership.”
Akosua Ohenewaa Kyereh | Ghana
Akosua Ohenewaa Kyereh is a Senior Medical Laboratory Scientist, currently working with the Ghana Infectious Disease Centre (GIDC). She has worked with various healthcare facilities in Ghana, contributing to improved patient outcomes through clinical diagnostics and educational outreaches. She also serves on the rapid response team at GIDC, supporting nationwide infectious disease efforts.
Akosua has broad expertise in laboratory medicine, including microbiology, clinical chemistry, hematology, blood banking, immunology, and molecular biology. She is deeply interested in antimicrobial resistance and is especially passionate about health communication that drives meaningful global health impact.
She joined the Africa Lab Leadership Bootcamp, organized by BIOMED CONNECT, to strengthen her leadership skills and gain knowledge on improving laboratory systems in Ghana. Her goal is to support high-quality diagnostic services that enhance patient care and strengthen health systems.
Cathy Rafenomanantsoa | Madagascar
I am a medical laboratory professional and biotechnology student with demonstrated experience in clinical and molecular diagnostics, as well as in national health surveys addressing multiple diseases, including HIV, COVID-19, and other priority infectious conditions. I possess expertise in PCR workflows, viral load testing, and quality-focused diagnostics, and I am committed to strengthening laboratory systems and advancing leadership in public health.
Joseph Mukwaya | Uganda
Joseph is a microbiologist and creative from Uganda, passionate about using science and storytelling to drive positive change. As a master’s graduate of Blida 1 University in microbiology, he currently serves as the Head of Marketing and an Assistant Laboratory Technician at Bactimed Community Medical Centre in Nabbingo, where he performs diagnostic tests and leads campaigns to promote the centre’s services.
Joseph also works as the Productions Manager with NurtureX, creating visual stories that inspire and empower young entrepreneurs, and he founded Scholar’s Path Africa, a dialogue based platform that connects African students with government endorsed academic opportunities.
His vision is to be at the front lines of Africa’s public health transformation bridging research, design and education to make science accessible and impactful.
Maryam Ibraheem | Nigeria
Ibraheem Maryam Adeyinka is a distinguished First-Class graduate of Medical Laboratory Science from Fountain University, Osogbo, where she specialized in Chemical Pathology. Born and raised in Lagos, Nigeria, Maryam has consistently demonstrated academic excellence, graduating with an outstanding CGPA of 4.92 and earning the honor of Best Graduating Student (BGS) during her induction ceremony.
Her remarkable performance was recognized through multiple awards and prizes, celebrating her dedication, discipline, and intellectual brilliance. Driven by a deep passion for female reproductive health and overall wellness, Maryam is a committed health advocate who leverages storytelling to create impactful health awareness. She believes that health education becomes more powerful when it is relatable, accessible, and empathetic—values she embodies through her writing and digital health content.
Maryam’s interest in community health is demonstrated through her active participation in numerous medical outreaches, where she volunteers her skills to support underserved populations and contribute to improving public health outcomes. Her involvement in these initiatives reflects her belief in service, compassion, and the responsibility of health professionals to bridge gaps in community wellness.
Beyond the laboratory and advocacy space, Maryam is a multifaceted creative with growing expertise in social media management, a skill she began honing during her time as a Public Relations Officer. She combines strategic communication with storytelling to build meaningful engagement, especially around health, wellness, and personal development. Maryam also nurtures a personal passion for culinary arts and is an aspiring chef who enjoys exploring food as a form of creativity, culture, and community building.
Her diverse interests reflect her dynamic personality equally committed to science, storytelling, service, and self-expression. With a vision to become a leading voice in women’s health and wellness, Maryam is continuously seeking opportunities to broaden her impact. She aims to integrate her scientific knowledge, advocacy skills, and creative communication abilities to drive change, inspire healthier living, and empower women across community
Joy Kang’asa | Zambia
Joy Kangasa is a biomedical scientist and public health researcher with a strong foundation in clinical laboratory techniques and health data analysis. Currently pursuing a Master of Science in Public Health at the University of Zambia, Joy has gained hands-on experience through biomedical scientist internships at KCM Nchanga South Hospital and Levy Mwanawasa University Teaching Hospital. Skilled in operating advanced laboratory systems such as the Sysmex XN 1000 and iChroma II, she has contributed to implementing quality assurance and laboratory management practices.
Joy is proficient in data management and analysis using SPSS and STATA, with additional certifications in project management and leadership. Her commitment to improving health outcomes is demonstrated through volunteer work with Daisy Care Zambia and participation in health promotion events such as World Blood Donor Day. Fluent in English and Bemba, Joy combines her technical expertise with strong interpersonal skills to support laboratory management and public health initiatives aimed at advancing healthcare in Zambia and beyond.
Trisah Simayunga | Zambia
My name Trisah Simayunga was born and raised in the Southern Province of Zambia and is currently a final-year student at the University of Zambia, pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Science.I am a committed, disciplined, and academically driven student who approaches my studies with focus and a strong willingness to learn, unlearn, and relearn.
My passion for scientific inquiry continues to shape me g both academically and professionally. My academic interests include key areas of biomedical science, including microbiology, immunology, , and public health. I am particularly drawn to laboratory-based research and values the role of scientific evidence in improving health outcomes. Throughout my studies, I have developed essential skills in laboratory techniques, scientific analysis, teamwork, and critical thinking, all of which strengthen my competence in the field.
I am Inspired by individuals who use science to make meaningful contributions to society, I aspire to become a scientist whose work has a lasting impact.
Thabisile Laura Moyana | South Africa
I am a third-year Biomedicine student at Eduvos with a strong foundation in laboratory techniques, scientific reasoning, and applied biomedical sciences. My academic background spans a broad and integrated curriculum within Biomedical and Applied Laboratory Sciences, equipping me with practical skills in aseptic technique, data interpretation, instrumentation handling, and strict adherence to Good Laboratory Practice. I am deeply motivated by understanding biological systems and using scientific knowledge to address real-world health challenges.
Alongside my academic training, I have built strong leadership and communication abilities through positions such as class representative and Deputy President of my high school RCL. These roles strengthened my capacity to coordinate, support teams, and facilitate clear communication. My experience as a hostess at Malagueta further enhanced my professionalism, adaptability, and confidence in working with diverse individuals in high-pressure environments.
I am confident and efficient in using the Microsoft Office package, including Word, PowerPoint, Teams, and Outlook tools I rely on daily for academic organisation, presentations, and communication.
A key highlight in my journey includes placing in the Top 5 of the Bioverse Innovation Competition, a recognition that reflects my creativity, problem-solving abilities, and potential within the biomedical innovation space.
Driven, adaptable, and committed to excellence, I am eager to contribute meaningfully to the biomedical, research, and healthcare sectors. I look forward to opportunities that challenge me to grow, innovate, and make a positive impact through science.
Tafadzwa Nyamunda | Zimbabwe
Tafadzwa Nyamunda is a dedicated Veterinary Technologist with a passion for One Health. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Technology with a 2.1 class honors, Tafadzwa has built a strong foundation in animal care. What sets her apart is her unique affinity for scars – a testament to her hands-on approach and compassion in her work. With a commitment to One Health, Tafadzwa strives to promote the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. Her expertise in laboratory techniques like PCR, ELISA, ectoparasite identification and enthusiasm makes her a valuable asset in her field.
Charles Simbeye | Zambia
I’m a Biomedical Sciences enthusiastic student pursuing my studies at the University of Zambia
Tanaka Ngwaru | Zimbabwe
Tanaka is a Graduate Trainee with a Bachelors in Medical Laboratory Sciences
Grecian Chatsalira | Malawi
Grecian is a Medical Laboratory Scientist in Malawi
Lushomo Miyoba | Zambia
Iam Miyoba Lushomo a fourth year Biomedical science student at Mulungushi university, Zambia. Iam passionate about leadership which is a solution driven leadership that enhances laboratory leadership am also a founding deputy director education research and events biomedconnect
As fellow Bwalya Chanshi Asher noted upon completion, “It was more than worth it. I am looking forward to applying the skills I have obtained to better other people’s lives through exercising my leadership skills.”
What Makes an ALLB Fellow?
The BootCamp is not a traditional academic course. It is an incubator for “Laboratorians with a Vision.” Under the guidance of mentors like Frank Sandulu (CEO of BIOMED Connect) and facilitators like Dr. Mia Edgerton-Fulton and Raymond Owusu Kantanka, the fellows mastered five critical pillars:
- Foundations of Lab Leadership: Shifting from a task-oriented mindset to systems thinking and values-driven leadership.
- Lab Systems & Quality Improvement: Using practical tools like SLIPTA and ISO 15189:2022 to drive laboratory excellence.
- Scientific Visibility: Mastering abstract and grant writing to secure funding and global recognition.
- Professional Branding: Building impactful CVs and leveraging LinkedIn to increase the visibility of African scientists.
- Capstone Implementation: Translating classroom theory into real-world lab solutions.
A Strategic Leap: The ASLM Partnership
A major highlight for the 2025 cycle was the strategic partnership between BIOMED Connect and the African Society for Laboratory Medicine (ASLM). This partnership established BIOMED Connect as the youth engagement arm for laboratory workforce development, ensuring that ALLB fellows are directly plugged into a continental network of over 40,000 professionals.
How to Join the 2026 Cohort
Missed out on the 2025 session? BIOMED Connect runs the Africa Lab Leadership BootCamp once every year. Here is how you can prepare for the next intake:
- Follow BIOMED Connect on LinkedIn: This is where the official “Call for Applications” is first announced.
- Visit the ALMA Webpage: Keep an eye on the Africa Laboratory Management Academy for curriculum updates and application links.
- Prepare Your Portfolio: The program seeks early-career professionals (students or graduates) in Biomedical Sciences, Microbiology, Biotechnology, and related fields who are eager to lead.
- Reach Out: If you have questions about the curriculum or eligibility, you can connect directly with the Program Lead, Frank Sandulu, via LinkedIn or email the academy at
in*******@**************my.org.
Final Thoughts
As Frank Sandulu often says, “Laboratories across Africa can only get better and more efficient if they have well-trained, efficient, and accountable leaders at their cornerstone.”
To the Class of 2025: You are now those leaders. We cannot wait to see the impact you make in your respective countries and laboratories. Congratulations!
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