Dr. Westone Khisa (PhD Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work 2018) is a gynaecologist and surgeon who has transformed the lives of over 4,000 women across remote and disadvantaged areas in Kenya. He’s renowned for eliminating and destigmatising obstetric fistula, a condition which develops after the birth of a child.

Study UK’s Global Professional Achievement Award celebrates the outstanding achievements of alumni who are exemplary leaders in their field. In 2020 there were 641 applications for the category, 40 of these were made in South Saharan Africa. Westone was shortlisted to represent his region before being named the overall global award winner. This is a merit to Westone’s incredible contribution to his community, profession and country.

Westone recalls how fistula can devastate the lives of sufferers: “Lack of information and poverty inhibits their access to sanitary pads and other hygiene related practices. Partners move on with life to find new love, pushing their wives to self-pity, rejection and isolation. Naturally, these unfolding events are dehumanising and erode women’s dignity. In part this explains why most fistula patients are depressed with suicidal tendencies.”

Fistula surgery allows these women to rebuild their lives, and 94% of Westone’s patients have fully recovered from the condition.

He continues: “They begin to interact with family and community – this breaks the silence around their personal journeys with urine and stool leakages; which opens a new chapter in their lives. They never look back again! Some say they feel reborn again.”

He notes the support he gained while at the University as a contributor to his success: “Many occasions I was in remote places without internet and deadlines skipped my mind because of the workload. Administration staff were very understanding, I was allowed to have extensions which made me feel appreciated; giving me inner peace to learn and serve fistula women with unwavering loyalty. The supervisory visit to Africa was an added advantage because I received on the job mentorship and support throughout my study period. I truly enjoyed my academic journey. For students looking for Postgraduate study, The Univesity of Manchester is the place to be. Come and feel at home even when you are far from home.”