Scholars of Color- Giovani Zelada MD
What is Scholars of Color?
It is a platform in which scholars of color are purposefully celebrated. It’s a space where scholars of color are showcased front and center. It is a digital space where we feel empowered and resilient. Let us get to know each other. Let us cheer each other on AND show the world what we have to offer.
Let us now welcome Giovani Zelada to the Scholars of Color space!
Name: Giovani Zelada MD
Gender Pronouns: He/Him/His
What do you currently do for work and/or school?: Resident Physician in Internal Medicine/Psychiatry
Without positions or titles, how would you describe yourself?: Compassionate listener, educator, and advocate
What are you passionate about?: I am passionate about providing comprehensive care and education to disadvantaged, marginalized, and vulnerable populations of all colors and backgrounds. I am also passionate about advocating for and helping first generation students pursue higher education, and overcome systemic inequities that often times act as a barrier to achieve our dreams.
Why is the representation of scholars of color important to you?: It is critically important to see other scholars of color because we can serve as role models for future generations that may lack guidance or representation. There is great value in developing a community and support system with others who share similar stories and backgrounds. Seeing other scholars of color is motivating and serves as concrete examples que si se puede!
If people are interested in getting connected to you, how can they?: Instagram @gmzelada.md
Anything else you would like us to know?: I am a first-generation Guatemalan-American, first in my family to pursue higher education, and the first healthcare professional in my family. I graduated from the University of Southern California with a B.A. and B.S. Magna Cum Laude, and with my M.D. from the UC Davis School of Medicine. Although I've had an incredibly supportive family who has motivated me at every step, I encountered various challenges along the way in order to get to where I am today. Many encounters with self-doubt and imposter syndrome. Many times where I questioned whether I truly belong where I was. And many times where I failed and felt shame in not only letting myself down but letter down my family. I am grateful I found role models, mentors, and examples of individuals with shared stories, and honestly who shared similar struggles, that helped me pushed past these feelings and continue on my path. I hope to use my role and position now to do the same for others.
Thank you Giovani for sharing space with us!
Stay tuned everyone for more Scholars of Color profiles. Interested in being showcased yourself? Please email the Scholars of Color team at scholarsofcolor@reclaimingyourhappiness.com and we will get back to you shortly.
