Addiction Prevention Coalition
Addiction Prevention Coalition
Eradicating Stigma: A Conversation with Abi Famurewa
Eradicating Stigma: A Conversation with Abi Famurewa
Eradicating Stigma: A Conversation with Abi Famurewa
Thursday 13th April 2023
Hear Abi Famurewa's inspiring journey from Nigeria to advocacy, tackling substance use stigma and promoting mental health education.
32 minutes
Informative
Inspiring
Empowering
Hopeful
Compassionate
About this podcast
Author:
Addiction Prevention Coalition
Overview:
Categories:
Family Recovery from Addiction
Recovery Reimagined
Innovative Treatments & Recovery Paths
Empowering Recovery Journeys
Creative Recovery Journeys
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Episodes:
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Get the buttons here!From Nigeria to Advocacy: Abi Famurewa's Fight Against Substance Use Stigma
Episode Overview
- Abi shares her personal experiences with substance use stigma and the lack of education and support in Nigeria
- Her journey from infectious diseases to public health and epidemiology
- Abi's work at APC - program evaluation for SAMHSA grant and mental health first aid instruction
- Her dedication to making a meaningful impact on her community in Nigeria
- The power of education, empathy, and determination in breaking the stigma
Substance use education is not, like, the stigma around it is a whole lot in Nigeria. It's kind of like the bad people are used. Something like APC isn't back home. Like where you could just, like, walk into to get information, to know what next to do, what to say. Like we had none of that. I had to be the one to educate my parents about it.
Ever thought about how one's journey from a different continent could shape their mission in life? Abi Famurewa's story is a testament to that. Growing up in Nigeria, Abi's world took a sharp turn when her sister's opioid use became a family crisis during her time at Texas A&M. This unexpected challenge pushed Abi into the realm of substance use education and advocacy.
Now an epidemiologist for the Addiction Prevention Coalition, Abi blends her passion for public health with her personal experiences to combat the stigma surrounding substance use. In this episode, she opens up about her transition from focusing on infectious diseases to becoming a beacon of hope for those grappling with addiction. Her work primarily revolves around a five-year SAMHSA grant aimed at providing education and prevention services in Birmingham, Alabama.
Beyond crunching data, Abi also takes on the role of a Youth Mental Health First Aid instructor, teaching others how to offer support and understanding. Her dedication to both her professional duties and personal growth shines through as she shares her vision for a more informed and compassionate community, both in the U.S. and back in Nigeria.
Tune in to hear Abi's inspiring journey and learn how one person's efforts can make a significant difference in breaking down barriers and fostering hope.