Meet Dr. Zara Modibbo

Dr. Zara Modibbo is a trailblazer in healthcare with a career spanning over 20 years. She is the Co-founder and Managing Partner of Débbo Africa, a healthcare innovation company dedicated to improving women's access to diagnostic services and tech-enabled health solutions.

My Life timeline

1980

Early Beginnings

Born in Northeastern Nigeria to a Nigerian diplomat and a highly artistic, creative mother, I spent my early years in Moscow. It was a time of significant change and transformation, sparking my curiosity about the dynamics of an ever-evolving world.

1980

Early Beginnings

1990s - 2000s

Education and Early Achievements

At the age of 9, my Baba passed away (May Allah grant him Jannah) — a profound and earth-shattering loss that has been monumental in shaping my resilience and perspective on life.
Attended high school at Queen's College, Yaba, Lagos, where my passion for science and medicine began to take root.
Graduated from Medical School at the University of Maiduguri, Borno, finishing in the top 10% of my class and laying a strong foundation for my medical career.

1990s - 2000s

Education and Early Achievements

At the age of 9, my Baba passed away (May Allah grant him Jannah) — a profound and earth-shattering loss that has been monumental in shaping my resilience and perspective on life.
Attended high school at Queen's College, Yaba, Lagos, where my passion for science and medicine began to take root.
Graduated from Medical School at the University of Maiduguri, Borno, finishing in the top 10% of my class and laying a strong foundation for my medical career.

2010 - 2015

Rising in Medicine

Recognized as a Future Nigeria Awards recipient in 2010, honoring my contributions to public health and innovation.
Attended a Summer session studying Global Health and Epidemiology with Paul Farmer (RIP) at the Harvard School of Public Health, Boston.
Attained a major professional milestone in 2015 as a Fellow of the West African College of Physicians (Lab Medicine), advancing my expertise in laboratory medicine.

2010 - 2015

Rising in Medicine

Recognized as a Future Nigeria Awards recipient in 2010, honoring my contributions to public health and innovation.
Attended a Summer session studying Global Health and Epidemiology with Paul Farmer (RIP) at the Harvard School of Public Health, Boston.
Attained a major professional milestone in 2015 as a Fellow of the West African College of Physicians (Lab Medicine), advancing my expertise in laboratory medicine.

2015 - 2021

Trailblazing Research

Published the first randomized trial on HPV self-sampling in West Africa, breaking new ground in women's healthcare accessibility.
Completed an MSc in Infectious Diseases at the prestigious London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) in 2021, expanding my knowledge in global health and infectious diseases.

2015 - 2021

Trailblazing Research

Published the first randomized trial on HPV self-sampling in West Africa, breaking new ground in women's healthcare accessibility.
Completed an MSc in Infectious Diseases at the prestigious London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) in 2021, expanding my knowledge in global health and infectious diseases.

2021 - Present

Leadership and Entrepreneurship

Appointed VP of Lab Operations at 54gene, where I drove advancements in genomics and precision medicine to revolutionize healthcare across Africa.
Co-founded Débbo Africa, a transformative initiative dedicated to empowering women through health, education, and innovation.

2021 - Present

Leadership and Entrepreneurship

Appointed VP of Lab Operations at 54gene, where I drove advancements in genomics and precision medicine to revolutionize healthcare across Africa.
Co-founded Débbo Africa, a transformative initiative dedicated to empowering women through health, education, and innovation.

Education

“”

Zara is an excellent professional who is doing brilliant work in the fields of Women's Health, Health Tech, and Mental Health. Her work at Debbo Africa is truly inspiring and stands as a testament to the transformative impact of leveraging expertise and innovation to create meaningful societal change.

Isang Awang

Head of Advocacy, Global Parenting Initiative, Oxford University

“”

Dr Zara consistently demonstrates a rare combination of professionalism, empathy, and deep commitment to the growth of others that sets her apart from her peers.

Dr Aisha Nabila Wanka

Co-founder Débbo Africa

“”

I have worked with Dr Zara across two businesses and She is exceptional in her approach to work and life; driven by her passion for the work and people; she is all about delivering value in excellence.

Francis Osifo

Ex YC Ex Tech Stars, Co-Founder Rayda

“”

Dr. Zara Modibbo is a visionary and trailblazing medical doctor whose passion and dedication inspire me deeply. She is empowering women across Africa, creating opportunities, and leaving an indelible mark. I'm excited to see how her journey continues to unfold

Prof. Yahya Mohammed

AFENET/UDUTH

“”

Dr. Zara is deeply passionate and strongly focused on spreading the good in every opportunity.

Prof. Mohammed Manga

Provost, Gombe State University & Federal Teaching Hospital

“”

Dr. Zara's leadership has been truly transformative, shaping my career and character. Working with her has been a privilege—her guidance, wisdom, and mentorship have propelled me beyond my expectations. I am forever grateful.

Dr. Adeola Foluso Adeleye

House Lead, Simaril Supported Living, Winnipeg, MB, Canada.