Jessica-Mary is one of UK’s brightest medical stars
Anglia Ruskin Medicine student wins Rising Star category at Black Talent Awards
Jessica-Mary Onuoha with her Black Talent Award. Photo by Lensi Photography/Jesse Gerald Photography
A medical student at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) has been recognised as one of the UK’s most promising young talents after winning the Rising Star of the Year category at the Black Talent Awards.
Jessica-Mary Onuoha, a final-year Medicine student, collected the prestigious award at a ceremony at Edgbaston stadium in Birmingham in recognition of her achievements across medicine, research and entrepreneurship.
During her studies at ARU’s School of Medicine, Jessica has combined academic excellence with research interests in dermatology and a passion for widening participation and inclusion within healthcare.
Her work includes research highlighting the under-representation of skin of colour in dermatology teaching materials and the development of an educational platform designed to improve diagnostic accuracy across all skin tones.
“Winning this award was genuinely unexpected, and I’m incredibly grateful. Coming from a low income background, I’ve often had to create opportunities where there seemed to be none. My journey through medicine, research and entrepreneurship hasn’t always been easy, so this recognition means so much.
“I hope it also inspires others from backgrounds like mine to believe their dreams are possible. I’m especially grateful to my family, who have been my backbone throughout this journey, and to my mentors and supervisors for their continued support."
Jessica-Mary, who lives in Chelmsford and is originally from DartfordJessica-Mary added: “Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue my research and work in inclusive dermatology education. I’m also co-founding an AI-native medical education startup, set to launch next year. I look forward to graduating from medical school, specialising in dermatology and exploring research opportunities in the United States. This really feels like just the beginning.”
The Black Talent Awards celebrate outstanding Black professionals and emerging talent from across the UK.
“Jessica-Mary’s success is thoroughly deserved and reflects not only her academic ability but also her determination and commitment to making a difference in healthcare.
“Throughout her time at ARU she has balanced her medical studies with research, innovation and advocacy, while remaining focused on improving opportunities and outcomes for others.
“We are incredibly proud of her achievements and look forward to following what promises to be an outstanding career in medicine.”
Dr Jo-Anne Johnson, Head of Undergraduate Medicine at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU)