Scaling non-profit impact with a JSGS Graduate Certificate
Jennifer Braimah’s passion for lifelong learning and social responsibility was instilled early on, shaping her career in the social sector.
By Charvee Sharma
As a doctor working in both private and public health sectors, Braimah saw first-hand the stark disparities in access to healthcare services across different sections of society. Her experience in the healthcare ignited a desire to address these inequalities and advocate for the vulnerable and underserved, particularly children and women.
In pursuit of this goal to empower communities and enhance her knowledge of the social sector, Braimah enrolled in the Social Economy, Cooperatives and the Nonprofit Sector Graduate Certificate at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) Saskatoon campus. She was drawn to the renowned faculty and the rigorous curriculum the program had to offer.
“I chose the program at JSGS because it offers advanced skills in management, policy development, and resource mobilization – which goes beyond the social sector and offers skills on collaborating with stakeholders in the for-profit and nonprofit arena.”
“The MCert program perfectly aligns with my aspirations of developing a sustainable, community-driven healthcare solution in the nonprofit landscape,” she said.
Braimah is confident that the program has set a strong foundation for her future.
"The skills I gained during my time at JSGS go beyond the nonprofit sector," Braimah explained. "They’ve enabled me to bridge the gap between for-profit and nonprofit stakeholders, and advocate for sustainable healthcare solutions."
Upon graduating this fall, Braimah eyes her next academic pursuit in the domain of psychology, to better understand philanthropy in a sustainable manner.
The next chapter in her journey will focus on scaling the impact of her non-profit organization, Intensive Rescue Foundation International – which aims to address various needs of vulnerable sections of society, including reproductive and sexual health, nutrition, reconstructive surgical needs, and more.
“I aim to inspire a new generation of social entrepreneurs and philanthropists through media advocacy and public engagement, expanding our philanthropic footprint,” Braimah said.
She hopes to expand the reach of her nonprofit in Canada by collaborating with like-minded nonprofits, including Period Purse, Ronald McDonald House Charities, and Oxfam.
“As the founder, president, and CEO of IRFI, established in 2008, my team and I have been able to provide critical healthcare services, access, referrals, information, and commodities to myriad underserved communities, and aim to continue to do so.”
“In addition, we empower young women by training them in the manufacturing of menstrual products, adding a sustainable revenue stream.”
Beyond her professional endeavours, Braimah is also a closet writer and hopes to leverage her writing as a powerful tool for storytelling and social commentary.
“This passion reflects my dedication to exploring innovative avenues for social change and as a lifelong learner,” she said.