SheGen3.0 Showcase Spotlight: Justina Ugwah, founder of CLISTEPROBE
Introducing Justina Ugwah: Innovating Cancer Diagnostics with CLISTEPROBE.
In the realm of healthcare innovation, few journeys are as inspiring as that of Justina Ugwah, founder of CLISTEPROBE and audience vote winner of our SheGenerate showcase pitch. Justina's path from an Industrial Chemist in Nigeria to a pioneering entrepreneur in Ireland epitomizes resilience, dedication, and a commitment to making a difference. With a focus on accelerating cancer diagnoses through advanced biopsy technology, she combines personal experience, professional expertise, and a passion for humanitarian causes. Join us as we delve into Justina's story, exploring her motivations, challenges, and vision for a future where early cancer detection is accessible and effective worldwide.
Justina is part of our SheGenerate 3.0 cohort and one of the six Showcase Finalists and winner of our audience vote. With special thanks to our SheGen3.0 Partners for making the programme possible - Taylor Wessing Ireland, AIB, Catalyst NI, British Business Bank and Ulster Bank Northern Ireland.
To get us started - how would you describe yourself in 6 words or less?
Empathic, innovative, humanitarian, idealist, Women Advocate
What prompted you to start your business?
I had firsthand experience with family friends who were breast cancer patients. Working in the oil and gas industry, I witnessed the environmental damage and its impact on communities. Now, I strive daily to leave the world better than I found it. My customers are healthcare procurement professionals who want to achieve their performance metrics in cancer management by accelerating diagnoses.
Tell us a little bit more about you.
Originally from Anambra State, Nigeria, I've called Cork, Ireland, home for the past 18 years. I began my career as an Industrial Chemist in the downstream oil and gas industry, with over half a decade of experience in aviation and quality control. After emigrating to Ireland, I found that the job market favored biopharmaceutical and medical device expertise. I pursued further education, earning an MSc in Analytical Chemistry, where I met one of my co-founders who became my PhD supervisor. Together, we developed needle sensors for a biopsy device for real-time cancer diagnosis. I feel that the founder life chose me. My interests include promoting equality and diversity, especially for women of color.
Fill us in on your female founder journey.
In my journey of interacting with female patients diagnosed with breast cancer, I've discovered the immense strength women possess. Even while facing such a challenging disease, they remain eager to help others, showcasing remarkable resilience and selflessness. One of my challenges has been encouraging women to take on advisory roles. While they offer invaluable insights, many prefer to stay in the background rather than take a seat at the forefront. I aspire to shift this mindset and empower women to embrace leadership positions without feeling guilty about balancing family and entrepreneurship.
How did you hear about AwakenHub and what prompted you to apply for SheGenerate?
During my time in the New Frontiers program, I came across AwakenHub and was struck by their focus on changing the status quo, particularly the low percentage of women investors, despite women being known for their strong saving habits. Attending one of their events in Cork, I had the pleasure of meeting Sinead, and our connection was instant. I knew right then that I wanted to become part of this empowering community.
What have you gotten out of the SheGenerate process?
SheGenerate has connected me with a diverse network of female founders, each bringing unique business ideas and expertise to the table. It's not just a network; it's a vibrant community of women who actively advocate for and champion female entrepreneurship. Through SheGenerate, I've found support, encouragement, and a shared commitment to achieving financial freedom through future investment.
What does success look like to you - in 12 months and in 5 years?
In the coming year, our objective is to initiate our first human breast study, marking a pivotal step in our progress. Over the next five years, our aim is to transition from university-based research to an independent entity, supported by clinical evidence that validates our real-time biopsy diagnosis technology for breast, prostate, and lung cancers.
SheGenerate is only a small part of AwakenHub - now that you have the community's attention - what can we/they do for you?
A warm introduction to veterinary oncologists.
As a founder - what are your non-negotiables?
As a female founder of a smart biopsy technology, my non-negotiables include unwavering commitment to innovation, integrity in all endeavors, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. I draw inspiration from trailblazing women in STEM who defy stereotypes and pave the way for future generations. Their resilience and determination remind me that anything is possible with dedication and perseverance. Six words to live by: Innovate, Integrate, Integrity, Resilience, Perseverance, Excellence.
A few words for anyone thinking of applying for SheGenerate 4.0?
For anyone considering applying to SheGenerate 4.0, I encourage you to seize this opportunity to join a supportive community of female founders, access valuable resources, and accelerate the growth of your business. Don't hesitate to invest in yourself and your entrepreneurial journey – SheGenerate is here to empower and elevate you every step of the way.
If you attended SheVentures - how did you find this? How has it added to your founder or AwakenHub journey?
I found SheVentures to be an enlightening and empowering experience. It added immense value to my founder journey by providing valuable insights, networking opportunities, and inspiration from fellow entrepreneurs.
If you attended our USA Trade Mission - how did you find it? How has it added to your founder or AwakenHub journey?
The USA Trade Mission provided insights into the US market, networking opportunities with introductions to potential partners, and a chance to showcase CLISTEPROBE on a global scale. It enhanced our credibility and visibility in the industry.
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