Zainab Hassan Suleiman is a warm and determined second-year PhD student at the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM) and an Assistant Lecturer at the Department of Nursing and Midwifery at the State University of Zanzibar (SUZA). Known for her compassionate nature and tireless dedication, Zainab is a Nurse Midwife specialising in critical care and trauma. Her journey in public health research is deeply intertwined with her commitment to improving maternal and child health in her community and beyond.
Entry into public health research and the full-time reality of family life
Zainab's entry into public health research was driven by her passion for reducing maternal and child mortality. With a heart full of empathy and a mindset of making a difference, she decided to further her education to a PhD level. Her research focuses on the effectiveness of different teaching methods—blended learning and face-to-face learning—in strengthening the capacity of healthcare workers who provide services to pregnant women and those who have delivered. Her research is crucial in informing policy changes and improving the training modalities of low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
Balancing her roles as a student, lecturer, wife, and mother, Zainab has mastered the art of time management with grace and resilience. She divides her week meticulously: two days for teaching, three days for her studies, and the weekends for family time. Her infectious enthusiasm for her work and her unwavering commitment to her family are sources of inspiration to those around her. Her family, especially her husband and parents, provides immense support, enabling her to pursue her academic and professional goals with determination and courage.
After long days of hard work and stressful PhD studies, Zainab finds solace in reading the Qur'an, spending time with her family, and engaging in light exercises. She loves to take her children to the beach on weekends, where they laugh and play in the gentle breeze. These moments of joy and relaxation rejuvenate her spirit.
When passion and purpose align
Zainab's research at LSTM covers Kenya and Tanzania (Dodoma and Zanzibar), where she is in the final stages of data collection. Her findings will play a vital role in improving healthcare services and reducing maternal deaths.
For PhD candidates navigating the work-life balance, Zainab offers invaluable advice. She emphasises the importance of support systems, including family, colleagues, and supervisors. Her ability to balance her multiple roles stems from the patience, willingness, and cooperation of her loved ones, as well as the guidance from her academic mentors.
Zainab's dream is to become an expert in health research, contributing to policy changes and improving health outcomes for pregnant mothers and children. She encourages others to pursue their academic dreams, highlighting that perseverance and dedication are vital to achieving one's goals.
“Don’t be afraid to fight for your dreams and face challenges to win.”