Sewuese Akuse is a clinical researcher and medical doctor with a passion for improving health equity. She has dedicated her career to making a positive impact on the lives of others. Her extensive experience in both clinical practice and research has equipped her with a deep understanding of the complex challenges faced by women and underserved communities in accessing and affording quality healthcare. Throughout her career, she has made significant contributions to the field of clinical research, which has prompted her to advocate for policies and practices that promote equity in healthcare and contributed to developing innovative solutions that address social determinants of health.
She is driven by a deep-seated belief that everyone deserves access to quality healthcare, regardless of their gender, race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status. Her passion for improving health equity fuels her efforts to create a more equitable healthcare system for all. Regarded as top in her field, Sewuese has participated in research studies looking at closing the gap and providing healthcare to all. As a Nigerian-born doctor, she has seen firsthand how society can stigmatize patients with chronic diseases, making them afraid to come forward for assistance. This may lead to complications in their illnesses. To mitigate this endpoint, Sewuese has been part of community fairs and talks to empower and also educate people on the importance of regular screening and medical checkups.
What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?
Every day is a little bit different, but generally, I’m an early bird, I usually wake up at about 4:45 am. I then exercise for an hour as that sets the tone for my day, and gives me a sense of accomplishment. When I’m at work, things get really fast-paced and busy but I try to prioritize what is most important or urgent.
How do you bring ideas to life?
I journal a lot, it is easier for me to flesh things out when I have them written on paper. Then I have a few trusted colleagues that I brainstorm and share my ideas with.
What’s one trend that excites you?
I am happy to see a lot more women embracing weightlifting in their weight loss journey. I am into fitness and know women are afraid of look ‘boxy’. But weightlifting has so many health benefits, especially as we age and mature.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
Using the Pomodoro technique. When I do not feel inspired to work, I set a timer for 20 minutes and start my project. Usually after 20 minutes, I want to keep working and I get so engrossed in my project, thus eliminating the fear of starting.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Do it afraid. Apply to medical school, residency, and go for your master’s afraid. You have more than it takes, even if you do not think you do.
Tell us something you believe almost nobody agrees with you.
Pineapples pair perfectly well on pizza!
What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?
Try cuisines from different parts of the world- this broadens my horizon and exposes me to various cultures and traditions
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
I take a walk in nature for a few minutes to an hour weekly. That helps to ground me and clears my mind. It is also a way to get my steps in for the day.
What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?
Attending conferences (and if possible presenting/speaking at those conferences). It helps with networking as well as updating myself on what’s new in my field.
What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?
Because I wanted to prove I belonged in my field, I overworked myself until I had a physical breakdown. I have come to believe in myself and my abilities a lot more. I know when to put work down, listen to my body, and rest. We only have one body, and we need to take care of it to live long and fulfill our purpose.
What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?
A mobile app that can remind people to take their medications at scheduled times would be nice. It could also provide education on their conditions and provide a place where they can track their symptoms.
What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?
The Pomodoro timer, a simple but very effective way to remove distractions and keep me focused on the task at hand.
What is the best $100 you recently spent?
I bought a new airfryer so I can make healthier meals faster.
Do you have a favorite book or podcast from which you’ve received much value?
Atomic Habits by James Clear. It has so many gems in it, but one that struck me was the importance of being part of a community where your goals are desired. Having goals is great, but you may not be able to achieve them in a silo. Being a part of a community where these goals are celebrated makes it easier to achieve them as you are constantly surrounded by people achieving them daily.
What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?
Brain on fire- a movie about a young lady with a very rare neurologic disease. Her parents did not give up on finding the cause and treatment even when others did. Their willingness to not throw in the towel, but to risk everything showed the power of resilience, especially in regards to family and people you care about.
Key learnings:
- Do not let fear stop you from achieving your dreams and aspirations
- Try to tackle the most important tasks first, then the more urgent ones, that way your priorities are properly placed
- Keep yourself up to date with innovations in your field by attending conferences and joining societies in your field.