Graduate Spotlight: Ayann Abdiker
Ayann Abdiker, BHSc’25
Home Country and City
Mombasa, Kenya
Involvement with Western International
International Student & Western International Volunteer
Why I chose Western
I was drawn to Western because of how flexible and customizable the Health Sciences program is. When I looked through the curriculum, I could tell it would give me the space to build a degree that really reflected my interests. That kind of academic freedom felt rare, and it’s something Health Studies at Western does so well.
A favourite memory of my time at Western
Definitely the winter reading week bonfire with the Peer Guides program. As an international student, reading week can sometimes feel a little quiet and lonely but that night, filled with games, s’mores, and laughter, reminded me of the beautiful little family I found here. It’s a memory I hold close.
An accomplishment I’m especially proud of
In my fourth year (this year!), I completed a scoping review on interventions for postpartum depression in East African women. It was deeply personal work, something I grew passionate about during my time at Western, and I’m proud that I followed through with it from start to finish. It felt like a full-circle moment.
A fun fact about me
I’ve lived in six countries and each one has shaped me... but Kenya still wins my heart!
My plans for after graduation
I’ll be pursuing my Master of Public Health, with a focus on maternal health research - something I’m incredibly excited about.
In five years, I hope to be working in maternal and reproductive health, especially in underserved regions like East Africa. I want to help create care systems that truly reflect women’s realities, where culture, trust, and dignity are at the center. This work is deeply personal to me, and I’m excited to keep growing in it! Western truly shaped who I am today!
