Support Nakiah's First Medical Mission to Guatemala ✨

Hello everyone! My name is Nakiah Gipson, and I am a second-year medical student at Howard College of Medicine with a passion for surgery and serving underrepresented communities. I have been selected by the Student National Medical Association (SNMA) and International Volunteer Headquarters (IVHQ) to participate in a medical service trip to Guatemala, where I will provide much-needed healthcare to vulnerable patient populations.

This mission aligns with my lifelong dream of becoming a surgeon and addressing healthcare disparities. As a first-generation professional student, I understand the profound impact of access to quality healthcare—a realization that began when my mother underwent a life-changing ventriculoperitoneal shunt surgery after battling neurological problems. Witnessing her journey solidified my commitment to medicine and my dedication to serving those in need.

Why This Trip Matters

Guatemala faces significant barriers to healthcare, especially in rural communities. Through this program, I will assist in providing essential medical care, health education, and assistance to underserved patients. This is not just a trip—it’s an opportunity to gain hands-on experience, develop cultural competency, and give back in a meaningful way.

How You Can Help

To make this mission a reality, I need your support in covering the costs of travel and participation. Your generous contributions will go toward:

Registration Fee

Program Fee

Travel Insurance

Flights

Prophylactic Medication

Why Support Me?

Throughout my academic journey, I have been committed to scholarship, leadership, and service. Some of my most prestigious achievements include:

✅ White House DC Scholar – Interned under the Obama Administration.

✅ Center of Excellence Scholar – Selected by the Dean of Howard College of Medicine for academic excellence.

✅ Published Researcher – Contributed to studies on Understanding the Pathogenesis of Xenobiotic-Induced Oxidative Stress in the Cardiac Microenvironment

✅ Medical Reserve Corps Volunteer – Assisted in COVID-19 testing and vaccination efforts.

✅ Aspiring Surgeon – Gained firsthand experience in surgical techniques while scribing for emergency medicine physicians.

Diversity in Medicine Matters

Representation in healthcare is critical. As a future Black female surgeon, I am deeply committed to increasing diversity in medicine and serving communities that historically lack access to specialized care. This trip will allow me to broaden my medical perspective and continue my advocacy for equitable healthcare.

Join Me in Making an Impact!

Every donation—big or small—brings me one step closer to serving the people of Guatemala. Even if you can’t contribute financially, sharing this campaign means the world to me. Your support will not only help me grow as a physician-in-training but also bring life-changing medical care to those who need it most.

Thank you all from the bottom of my heart for believing in my mission! Your kindness and generosity will help me become the physician I aspire to be. ✨

With gratitude,

Nakiah Gipson

Second-Year Medical Student

Howard College of Medicine