Maero M.O. Deogracious is a practicing medical doctor with over seven years of experience, specifically the field of obstetrics and gynecology. In addition to his current work, Maero is an advocate for women's and girls' issues, including reproductive health and rights; gender equality; child marriage and teenage pregnancies; access to education and employment; intimate partner violence; and access to water and sanitation. He is the chair of the Kenya Medical Pharmacists and Dentists Union Nairobi chapter, focusing on fighting for doctors' social, financial, and workplace rights. He is also a poet, actor, writer, and musician. Maero holds a bachelors degree in Medicine and General Surgery, and is currently pursuing a Master of Medicine in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Kenyatta National Hospital, University of Nairobi. Upon completion of the Mandela Washington Fellowship, Maero plans to initiate and contribute to efforts advancing progress in women's and girls health and health-unrelated issues.

What do you do in your home country and what do you hope to do upon completion of your Fellowship? In particular, with the integration of your experiences with Drexel University?

My full name is Dr Maero Moses Onyango Deogracious. I prefer to be referred to as Dr Maero. Currently I am a resident doctor at our National hospital, Kenyatta National Hospital pursuing Masters in Obstetrics and Gynecology. 

My goal in this experience will be to interact with as many people as possible who are engaged in advocacy or fight for human rights and tap into their vast knowledge of experiences. Learn from their successes and failures and seek to know the various paths I have available to achieve my vision, which is to fight for girls and women issues. I intend to use this opportunity to fully engage, participate and learn from these individuals and this institution. 

What is your favorite thing about your home country? What are you most excited about learning about Philadelphia?

My favorite thing about Kenya is culture. We have a deep running culture that is experienced right after birth. I am excited to learn everything about Philadelphia.  I would have loved to experience the food but that's just a wish now.

Do you have any hobbies or an interesting fact you wish to share about yourself?

I love art. I am a musician and I have written, recorded and produced a number of songs that are meant to instigate political, spiritual and social well being. Am  also a poet and actor.

If I were to come to your home country, what is the first thing I should eat?

Ugali and Nyama Choma, no doubt. Nothing beats this delicacy.