Building a Diverse, Culturally Competent Health Workforce

Growing up in California, Vanessa saw how individuals who were not fluent in English and lacked health insurance had difficulty accessing care. As an aspiring medical professional studying at UCLA, she hopes to help strengthen the connection between patient care and social services.

Born in the African nation of Eritrea and raised in Dallas, Texas, Selome hopes to provide services as a pediatric dentist for those unable to afford care and also recognizes the importance of understanding the needs of various cultures and customs.

The son of Chinese immigrants, Mao hopes to attend medical school and work as a doctor in geriatric and palliative care. He believes that better communication with individuals who struggle due to language barriers can ensure they get needed care.

Originally from Sacramento, California, Ashley has worked with individuals from low-income and underserved populations, some of whom suffer from neurological conditions and mental health disorders. As a physician she plans to make health care accessible and meaningful to underserved populations.

The daughter of Chinese immigrants, Mabel is providing culturally competent bedside care as a multilingual registered nurse, which has enhanced her ability to foster meaningful connections with her patients. She is using her clinical training and background to help reduce health disparities for underserved populations.

Raised in California’s Central Valley, Omar was inspired to become a physician after observing firsthand how cost and language barriers left many Hispanic people reluctant to seek health care. As a medical resident, Omar’s language skills are invaluable in helping him effectively deliver health care.

A car accident at the age of 18 that injured his parents and resulted in the loss of his best friend has shaped Santiago’s career in trauma and emergency nursing. As a nurse anesthetist in New York, he provides compassionate care to underserved Spanish-speaking trauma patients in Queens.

Homero moved to El Paso, Texas, at the age of 19 to pursue a career in health care in a region where 75% of people speak exclusively Spanish. He uses his background and training to deliver better care to patients who feel comfortable confiding in him.