GBR Spotlights – Munira

For today’s Spotlight, we interview Munira. She is a Global Development Director for Africa. Here she talks about her favourite GBR experience, her role within the team and what book she would recommend to you.

Hi Munira, thank you for taking the time to speak with us today. To start off, could you introduce yourself to our readers?

I’m Munira-and honestly, that already says a lot about me. My name means “light” or “illuminating, ” and I like to think of myself as someone who brings joy, warmth, and comfort to the people I love. I value connection, purpose, and creating positive impact wherever I can.

That’s such a beautiful meaning behind your name. You’re originally from Nigeria and are currently studying at LSE and LSHTM. Could you tell us a little more about your academic journey?

I studied Human Physiology for my Bachelor’s degree, and I’m currently pursuing my MSc in Health Policy, Planning and Financing through a joint program between London School of Economics and Political Science and London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine.

Health policy and systems strengthening is quite a unique path. What drew you toward this field?

Interestingly, I originally wanted to study medicine, but somehow I ended up in Human Physiology instead and that turned out to be a blessing in disguise. It made me realize that while I didn’t truly want to become a medical doctor, I did want to help people. That realization led me toward health systems strengthening, access to medicines, and public health policy, which I deeply enjoy. That said, in another version of the multiverse, there’s definitely a version of me who studied fashion design, became a fashion maximalist, and runs a clothing brand making six figures yearly.

Honestly, we can absolutely picture that alternate universe. Looking ahead, where do you see yourself in the near future?

I hope to keep doing more of what I love-supporting efforts in health systems strengthening, promoting access to medicines, and contributing to making the world a better place. I also see myself having a digital nomad phase at some point: working remotely with organizations whose missions I believe in, while living adventurously across different cities around the world-especially across Africa.

You’re currently one of GBR’s Global Development Directors. How did you first get involved with Global Biotech Revolution?

I’m passionate about access to medicines, and that naturally connects to the world of biotech and pharma. GBR does an incredible job of connecting young people in this industry to networks, opportunities, and meaningful events, and I wanted to be part of that work. I also met a Nigerian colleague on LinkedIn back in 2024 who worked in biotech and had previously been part of the GBR team. Seeing that made me think, “Why not?”  – and here we are.

Was there a particular GBR experience or project that really stood out to you?

Definitely GapSummit in September 2025 at Cambridge. I really enjoyed meeting members of the GBR team in person for the very first time – even though I was a little shy at first – and contributing to such an exceptional event. More generally, I love working with my team of Development Directors. It’s rewarding to watch us grow over time as we support ambassadors across the world, while also growing in our own personal career journeys.

GBR is entirely volunteer-led, which makes the scale of its impact even more impressive. What do you enjoy most about being part of the organization?

GBR does genuinely impactful work by connecting early-career professionals to networks and opportunities in biotech and pharma. What makes it even more impressive is that it’s completely volunteer-led. I really admire the dedication and passion every single team member brings to the organization.

And where do you personally see the biggest benefit of GBR?

I think GBR’s biggest strength is creating access-access to people, opportunities, mentorship, and knowledge. It helps young professionals step into spaces they may not have otherwise been able to reach, and that kind of exposure can be truly life-changing.

Let’s switch gears a little. What does Munira enjoy outside of work and GBR?

I love to travel, explore new places, take long walks, watch incredible films, and listen to my favorite podcasts. I also spend a ridiculous amount of time talking—I absolutely love a good yap session—and hanging out with my friends and family.

What’s the last dream you remember?

I often have this recurring dream where I’m sitting in an exam hall and suddenly realize I have to write an exam that I’m completely unprepared for. I honestly have no idea what it means—but as a current Master’s student, it definitely feels like a nightmare multiplied by ten. It’s usually great motivation to go study though, so maybe my subconscious is just trying to help.

What’s the last book you read that you’d recommend to others?

The last book I read was Doing Bad by Doing Good by Christopher Coyne. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone interested in the development sector, political economy, and understanding how good intentions can sometimes lead to unintended consequences.

Who’s your favorite person to work with at GBR?

Albert! We joined GBR at the same time, and he’s simply good people.

Now for an important question: favorite food?

I absolutely love pounded yam and Egusi soup with assorted meat. It’s a Nigerian delicacy and honestly-it makes me very happy. As for a least favourite meal, I can’t really think of one. If I don’t like something, I simply won’t eat it.

Finally, if you were stranded on a lonely island, which three items would you bring with you?

A Starlink setup kit, my laptop, and a water filter. Survival is important—but so is Wi-Fi.