Ghanaian optometrist and researcher, Dr Antoinette Antwi, says her mission is to inspire young African scientists to pursue research fearlessly and change the global narrative on vision science.

“My work inspires young scientists across Africa and beyond. I hope my journey encourages young girls to pursue science fearlessly,” Dr Antwi said, reflecting on her journey from Kumasi to becoming one of the most promising young vision researchers in the world.

Dr Antwi, a former student of St. Louis Senior High School and a graduate of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), earned her Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree in 2019. Her undergraduate research on Laser in Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) outcomes in Ghana gained international recognition after being presented at the American Academy of Optometry (AAO) meeting in Florida—an achievement that sparked her pursuit of advanced research in vision science.

In 2020, she joined the University of Houston College of Optometry (UHCO) in the United States to pursue a PhD in Physiological Optics and Vision Science. Her groundbreaking research focuses on low-level light therapy (LLLT) for treating dry eye disease, a condition that affects millions of people globally.

Her work has been featured in leading scientific journals and earned her several prestigious awards, including the AAO Ezell Fellowship and the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) Science Communication Training Fellowship.

Beyond the lab, Dr Antwi is also passionate about advocacy and community service. She has led vision screening programmes in Ghana and the U.S., and recently joined other researchers on Capitol Hill to advocate for increased funding for vision research.

Her leadership extends to academia and outreach. She serves as President of the Physiological Optics Graduate Student Association and coordinates STEM initiatives through the Africa STEM Network (AFRISNET). She also completed an internship with Alcon, contributing to innovations in eye care technology.

For Dr. Antwi, the pursuit of science is inseparable from service to society. She believes that with the right mentorship and exposure, Africa can produce more groundbreaking scientists.

“I envision changing the optics and vision narrative in Africa through research, advocacy, and effective science communication,” she added.

Her journey, from KNUST’s optometry lecture halls to global research stages, stands as a testament to resilience, brilliance, and the power of purpose-driven science.