Nancy Abu-Bonsrah made history in 2017 as the first Black woman to become a neurosurgery resident at the prestigious Johns Hopkins Hospital.
This groundbreaking feat was achieved through dedication, resilience, and passion for medicine!
Born and raised in Ghana, Nancy’s early life was marked by frequent moves between small villages and bustling cities due to her father’s work with the Adventist Development and Relief Agency, a nonprofit organization focused on aiding small-scale business owners and farmers.
At the age of 15, her family relocated to Maryland, where she quickly adapted to a new culture and educational system.
Nancy pursued her undergraduate studies in chemistry and biochemistry at Mount Saint Mary’s University in Maryland.
She later attended Johns Hopkins University for her medical degree, where she distinguished herself as a dedicated and talented student.
Her interest in neurosurgery was sparked during a college visit to Ghana, where she shadowed a neurosurgeon, an experience that solidified her career aspirations.
In 2017, Nancy’s acceptance into the neurosurgery residency program at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine marked a historic moment.
Johns Hopkins, known as the birthplace of neurological surgery, had never before welcomed a Black female resident into this highly competitive and demanding specialty.
Nancy’s journey is even more remarkable considering she is the first doctor in her extended family.
Her success is not only a personal triumph but also a beacon of inspiration for aspiring Black female doctors and surgeons.
Nancy is married to Kwabena Yamoah, a fellow physician who earned his M.D. from the University of Maryland School of Medicine. Together, they represent a powerhouse of medical expertise and dedication.
Looking ahead, Nancy is committed to giving back to her roots.
She plans to return to Ghana throughout her career to help build sustainable surgical infrastructure, ensuring that her home country benefits from her expertise and experiences.
Nancy Abu-Bonsrah’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact of perseverance and the importance of representation in the medical field.
She continues to inspire many, breaking barriers and setting new standards for what is possible.
