From Tragedy to Triumph: Meet Dr Juliet Nalwanga, Uganda’s First Female Neurosurgeon

Life is full of unexpected turns, and for Dr Juliet Nalwanga, these turns have shaped her into the incredible woman she is today. As a teenager, she experienced the heartbreaking loss of both her parents, a tragedy that would have broken many. But Dr Nalwanga refused to let adversity define her; instead, she used it as fuel to pursue her dreams.

Despite losing both parents, Dr Juliet Nalwanga is the first woman in Uganda to obtain a Master of Medicine in Surgery from Mbarara University of Science and Technology. She is Uganda’s first female Neurosurgeon.

A Trailblazer in Neurosurgery

Dr Juliet Nalwanga’s passion for neurosurgery led her to gain a Fellowship in Neurosurgery from The College of Surgeons East, Central and Southern Africa. But she didn’t stop there; she continued to expand her expertise by completing a Fellowship in Pediatric Neurosurgery from The Hospital for Sick Children, affiliated with the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Medicine.

Her dedication to her craft is evident in her commitment to training and mentoring medical students and surgical trainees. She has lectured at esteemed institutions such as Kampala International University, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Makerere University, and the College of Surgeons East, Central and Southern Africa. Dr Nalwanga’s passion for teaching and sharing her knowledge has made her an invaluable asset to the medical community in Uganda.

A Champion for Children’s Health

Dr Juliet Nalwanga is particularly driven by the need to cure children with brain tumours. Her expertise and compassion make her a beacon of hope for young patients and their families. She understands the devastating impact that brain tumours can have on a child’s life, and she is dedicated to providing the best possible care and treatment options.

As a proud mother herself, Dr Nalwanga knows the importance of nurturing dreams and supporting the aspirations of children. Her journey from tragedy to triumph serves as an inspiration to young girls who dream of breaking barriers in the medical field.

The Future is Bright

Dr Juliet Nalwanga’s accomplishments as Uganda’s first female neurosurgeon have paved the way for a more inclusive and diverse medical community. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, determination, and unwavering passion. Her journey reminds us that even in the face of tragedy, there is always a glimmer of hope and the potential for a brighter future.