Ava Faria
Ava Faria is a passionate advocate for health equity and a recent graduate of Brandeis University, where she majored in Health Policy and minored in African and African American Studies. She is dedicated to addressing racial disparities in healthcare—both clinical and social—and driving systemic change to improve health outcomes for marginalized communities.During her time at Brandeis, Ava participated in a study abroad program in Amsterdam, where she worked with the Access to Nutrition Initiative, contributing to innovative research on gender equity in nutrition. She also led a capstone project that reimagined a Produce Prescription program for a local farm in the greater Boston area, increasing access to fresh fruits and vegetables for patients facing food insecurity and chronic illnesses.
Ava is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Global Health Policy, with a concentration in Health Systems, at Brandeis University’s Heller School for Social Policy and Management. She plans to apply for international fellowships after graduating in May 2025, with the goal of transforming health outcomes for underserved populations worldwide.
Originally from the coast of Massachusetts, Ava has a deep connection to the water and a love for seafood, reflecting her Cape Verdean heritage. In her free time, she enjoys traveling and has set a personal goal to visit 30 countries before turning 30—she’s currently on her 21st.