Jade Gray
Thomson Leadership & Innovation Award
University of Western Ontario
Master’s Degree
Major/Field of Study: Public Health
Award Value: $30,000.00
Who is Jade Gray?
Jade was born in Nassau, The Bahamas and is a graduate of St Anne’s High School. She studied biochemistry at the undergraduate level at the University of The Bahamas. Pursuing a Master’s Degree in Public Health from the University of Western Ontario will further aid her aspirations in becoming a health administrator and activist. When she returns to The Bahamas, she hopes to give back to her community by supporting the local healthcare system to help combat health inequity and disparity in the country.
Jade was chosen as a Thomson Leadership and Innovation Awardee because of her passion for community development and her wish to give back in the future. She is a Gold Governor General’s Youth Awardee and volunteered with Hands4Hunger during the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian. She enjoys spending her free time with family and engaging in stimulating conversations. She is expected to graduate in 2023.
In Jade’s Own Words:
"I am looking forward to studying Public Health because I want to gain the knowledge and skills needed to help combat health inequity and disparity in the Bahamian society. In my studies I plan to focus on developing culturally and context relevant strategies that will improve population health."
"I believe that there has been significant economic, cultural and infrastructural development in the Bahamas, however the local healthcare system has a plethora of challenges. I hope to be a conduit in helping us reach our potential by becoming a health administrator and activist. In so doing, I can emphasize the value of excellent and proactive health care and community prevention while liaising with all stakeholders who are willing to be a part of a multidisciplinary collaborative approach to resolution. When I return home, I hope to work alongside with the necessary public and private partners that are committed to the development and the true value of the communities they serve." -Jade Gray