Expanding Our Horizons
Surgeons Making an Impact Around the World
The Association of Women Surgeons Foundation is pleased to launch "Expanding Our Horizons" a new series dedicated to highlighting inspiring women surgeons engaged in important global health initiatives.
Gifty Kwakye, MD MPH
Arthur W Fleming M.D. Research Professor; Clinical Associate Professor of Surgery; Assistant Dean for Clinical Medical Education, University of Michigan
How do you see yourself fitting into the global surgical community?
As a “Surgical Educator Without Borders”, I see myself as a bridge, a translator, and a connector within the global surgical community. Having been born and raised in Ghana but trained entirely in the U.S., I have the privilege of understanding two beautiful yet complex cultures. This unique perspective allows me to navigate and integrate different surgical approaches, fostering collaboration, education, and mentorship across borders to advance equitable colorectal care.
What goal(s) are you working toward?
I am working toward building sustainable colorectal care in Ghana through education, mentorship, and capacity building. I am also passionate about advancing mentorship frameworks that support trainees, particularly women in surgery, to foster a more inclusive and diverse global surgical workforce.
What is your biggest challenge in reaching your goal?
Systemic barriers, particularly financial constraints and resource limitations, make sustainability efforts challenging. Out-of-pocket payments for care place a significant burden on patients, and the lack of long-term funding models for training and infrastructure hinders the ability to build lasting surgical programs. Creating solutions that are both impactful and financially sustainable remains a key challenge.
How can women surgeons play a role in the solution?
Women surgeons can play a critical role by mentoring and sponsoring trainees and actively participating in global surgery initiatives. I personally know firsthand the importance of representation —there’s nothing more powerful than walking into a room, looking across the room and seeing someone who looks like you! When trainees see women leading and excelling in surgery, it shifts perceptions and opens doors for the next generation.
What impact has AWS and AWSF had on your surgical career?
AWS has provided a network of mentorship, sponsorship, and collaboration that has shaped my career in profound ways. One of the most meaningful relationships has been with Dr. Ann Lowry, who has mentored me since my fellowship and continues to be a trusted advisor and partner in my work to build colorectal surgery capacity in Ghana. Her guidance has reinforced the power of mentorship—not only in shaping individual careers but also in driving sustainable change in global surgery. Through AWS, I have experienced the full circle of mentorship, now advising and partnering with others to advance surgical education and access.
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