Olayinka Koso-Thomas is a doctor living in Sierra Leone and was the recipient of the 2016 Distinguished Old Waconian Award.
Dr Koso-Thomas is the definition of inspiration – her work in the challenging field of Female Genital Mutilation is ground-breaking and is changing lives.
She has spent over 40 years working in the fields of family planning, general medical practice, birth control and public health.
After studying Medicine at the University of Leeds and the University of California, Berkeley, Olayinka relocated to Sierra Leone, where she has spent her professional life dealing with the health consequences of FGM affecting women and young girls in Africa.
Throughout her career she has been recognised by numerous distinguished international bodies and was awarded an Honorary Doctorate by the National Autonomous University of Mexico. The King of Spain presented her with the ‘Prince of Asturias’ award for pioneering work.
We are proud that she is a part of the CHS community and thrilled that she accepted the 2016 Distinguished Old Waconian Award.
“This is a pleasant surprise for which I am grateful. I have had other awards in the past, but will treasure this above all others.” – Dr Olayinka Koso-Thomas