UPDATE: Thomas has made it to Ottawa! Further contributions towards his continued success are much appreciated.

Hello everyone!

I'm running this fundraiser on behalf of my friend Thomas, a bright and ambitious young man from Kenya. Coming from a humble background with numerous financial constraints, Thomas has nevertheless excelled academically and demonstrated a remarkable passion for learning.

With a background in Biochemistry, Thomas is currently finishing his MSc in Molecular Biology at Meru University of Science and Technology. His research interests include evolutionary, developmental and molecular biology, with a focus on understanding how developmental neurobiology influences individual variability in susceptibility to Parkinson's disease and other neurodegenerative conditions in African populations. The diverse research projects he has been a part of include investigating the relationship between the cervical microbiome and HPV status in HIV-positive women in Kenya, tracking the effects of COVID-19 2 years post-pandemic, mapping the gut microbiomes of endangered rhino species, and using bacteria-killing viruses to combat drug-resistant bacteria. He is a Global Health Program Fellow with the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute and serves on the Early Career Scientist Career Development Subcommittee in the Early Career Leadership Program at the Genetics Society of America.

As a result of his hard work and drive to succeed, Thomas has been accepted into a PhD program at the University of Ottawa, which offers a program that aligns perfectly with his aspirations: to expand his horizons, gain valuable knowledge, and make a positive impact in his community upon his return.

However, various expenses have created a significant barrier standing between Thomas and his dreams. The University has generously offered to cover the cost of tuition and give Thomas a $7000 CAD stipend ($5277.64 USD) per year, but the Canadian authorities want confirmation that he will have at least $10000 CAD ($7539.49 USD) available when he enters the country. He therefore needs an additional $3000 CAD ($2261.85 USD) before he will be allowed to travel. He also needs to pay visa and medical fees and airfare, and, since his stipend is paid per term, Thomas will also need funds for his initial costs of living, including rent, food and clothing for the cold winter months. This brings his total expenses to around $8000 USD.

To help overcome this barrier, we are launching this GoFundMe campaign to support Thomas' continued education as he pursues his goal of making positive change in the world. Your generous contribution will help cover Thomas's airfare, visa and medical fees, rent and living expenses, making it possible for him to acquire critical knowledge, experience new cultures and meet individuals from diverse backgrounds. By making an investment in Thomas' future, you are ensuring that he can give back and contribute to a better world.

Thank you for taking the time to read Thomas's story. Please donate to help make education a reality for Thomas and empower him to make a positive impact; every donation, no matter how small, will make a huge difference in Thomas's life. Let's come together as a community and help him achieve his dreams – share this campaign with your friends, family, and social networks to spread the word.

With gratitude,

Kevin Chaikelson