Joshua Omale, Pediatric Oncology Advocate, Innovation Council Member at Coalition Against Childhood Cancer (CAC2), shared a post on LinkedIn:
“I’ve always believed that purpose has a way of finding us, and sometimes, long before the titles or degrees do.
This week, I officially defended my undergraduate research project, earning a degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from the University of Jos, Nigeria.
It feels less like the end of a journey and more like the unfolding of a bigger one, one deeply rooted in purpose, people, and possibilities.
Many here have often called me ‘Dr.’ – long before I ever became one. I’ve always smiled at that, not because of what it implies, but because it reminds me that you don’t have to hold the title to carry the calling.
This journey has been defined by service – using science and advocacy to stand where children and young people’s voices tremble, especially in the fight against cancer.
Through my work at the SLUM AND RURAL HEALTH INITIATIVE NETWORK under the mentorship of Dr. Isaac Olufadewa, I found a deep understanding of what health equity truly means, that access to healthcare should never be a privilege.
My engagement with the Coalition Against Childhood Cancer (CAC2) has been life-changing. Under the inspiring leadership and kindness of Dr. Victoria Buenger, the steady foresight of board chair Ginny McLean, and the incredible Mariah Forster Olson, Bethany Zeiders Lieberman, and Steve Pessagno, I’ve found not just a professional community, but a family of people who remind me daily that love, science, and advocacy can co-exist beautifully.
I’ve also been privileged to lead efforts through the Campus Cancer Awareness Initiative Nigeria (CCAIN), building awareness and mobilizing young people on campus and in communities because change always begins close to home.
My heartfelt appreciation goes to my supervisor, Prof. Ishaya Longdet, Head of Department, Prof. Titilayo Johnson, distinguished lecturers and mentors, Prof. Dickson Musa and Dr. Enoch Banbilbwa Joel, PhD, and many more who made this journey meaningful.
And to Dr. Kenneth Egwuda, MBBS, FWACS, FMCOG, MCP, DMA, FMAS, FICS of Alps Hospitals, Engr. Dr. Ugbede Victor Ahiaba and Dr. Misha Mehta, thank you for always believing in me and supporting me.
Every experience from research to advocacy, and from mentorship to leadership, has shaped the kind of professional I’m becoming.
As I step forward, I’m open to roles and collaborations within my areas of competence, including strategic communications, media and digital management, health programs, advocacy, research leads, administrative support, and data analysis.
Whether remote, hybrid, or onsite, I bring with me one unchanging value: the willingness to learn, serve, and grow for impact.
This is not just a new chapter; it’s a renewed commitment to a lifelong purpose.
Here’s to what’s ahead – for science, for children, and for humanity; deeper research, stronger advocacy, and global collaboration for a healthier world.”
More posts featuring Joshua Omale on OncoDaily.