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In the last episode, we began a conversation with with Dr. Benjeil Edghill about his journey to ophthalmology and how he established a thriving practice in his hometown of NYC. In this episode we talk about his practice, his experiences being a black ophthalmologist, what motivates him, and what it will take to move us forward as a specialty to increase diversity in our ranks.

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Dr. Benjeil Edghill is a Brooklyn native, a glaucoma specialist, and an advocate for minoritized groups. He’s not only a skilled surgeon practicing in New York City but also a leader in advocating for better care for minority communities and supporting the next generation of URiM physicians through his work with and leadership in the NMA ophthalmology section.

His story is an example of what can happen at the intersection of ability, opportunity, mentorship, allyship, and representation, all of which propelled him into a successful career as an ophthalmologist and a national leader for diversity and patient advocacy in our specialty.

Dr. Benjeil Edghill

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In the last episode series, we heard from the directors of two pathway programs that are recruiting, supporting, and promoting young minority students in their efforts to pursue careers in the field of ophthalmology; the NMA Ophthalmology Section's Rabb Venable Excellence In Research Pathways to Success Program, and the AAO/AUPO's Minority Ophthalmology Mentoring Program.

In this episode, we’ll hear from the proverbial fruits of their labor; three, newly minted physicians who participated in these programs, Drs. Tiffani Spaulding, Diego Dominguez, and Alissa Belzie. We’ll hear about the impact these programs have have had on them, and how their experiences have shaped the trajectory of their careers and influenced their plans for the future.

These three young physicians embody the goals of each pathway program and why the need to increase diversity in ophthalmology is so important.