Born in Bangladesh and residing in North Carolina, Rumana Rabbani is a Ph.D. student in Health Policy and Management and a racial equity advocate. Pursuing a Ph.D. is a tool for empowerment and resiliency for Rumana, and a way for her to give back to people experiencing oppression, inequities, and trauma. She has experienced racism as an immigrant in the U.S., which inspires her to make changes for others who experience oppression.

Employing a systems perspective, Rumana uses her platform as a researcher and collaborator to uplift the voices of Community Health Workers and develop a shared understanding of what racial equity looks like. 

Youth and younger generations give Rumana hope. Seeing young people not shy away from discussing racism and sincerely embracing diversity gives Rumana hope for a more equitable future.

Prayer and spiritual connection bring Ruman joy. Being able to reflect on difficult times and see them in a positive light is important to Rumana. Looking at the sunset, being near the river, being still, and appreciating the natural environment grounds Rumana and brings her peace.