Scholarship Spotlight: Monique Hinds

I was born and raised in Barbados, a small island of 166 square miles, famous for its flying fish and cou-cou, the never-ending Crop Over season, cricketing greats, strong leadership under our Prime Minister Mia Mottley, and of course, as the home island of Robyn “Rihanna” Fenty.

My professional journey began in NGO management, focusing on cancer prevention and early detection. From there, I transitioned into public health, supporting national efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic, before taking on the role of Technical Officer for Non-Communicable Diseases at the Ministry of Health and Wellness in Barbados. These experiences have given me a deep appreciation for the complexity of health systems and the importance of leadership and innovation in driving lasting change.

UCL has long been one of my top choices because of its global reputation for academic excellence, innovation, and research impact, as well as for housing the first Global School for Health. I was particularly drawn to the MBA Health due to the combination of rigorous management training and a strong focus on healthcare, which allows me to apply business and leadership principles directly to health systems. The research-led modules, global collaboration, and emphasis on strategic health leadership align perfectly with my goal of strengthening Caribbean health systems through evidence-based solutions.

Learning that I had been accepted into the MBA Health programme and awarded a scholarship was deeply meaningful. It not only made this opportunity possible but also affirmed the value of the work I’ve been doing in advancing health equity and NCD prevention in the Caribbean. At a point in my career when I was seeking a challenge to broaden my perspective and drive system-level change, it felt like a clear signal that I’m on the right path. It was also a reminder that persistence pays off, that even when one door closes, another can open in unexpected and rewarding ways. My conversations with Dr. Oksana Gerwe during the interview process further confirmed that UCL is exactly where I need to be to grow and achieve my goals.

My goal is to use the MBA Health as a platform to bridge policy, innovation, and leadership in healthcare systems, particularly in small island developing states. I want to contribute to building more resilient, equitable, and people-centred health systems in the Caribbean, and to inspire others in the region to see healthcare not just as a service, but as a catalyst for sustainable development.