Photo caption: Dr. Woubeshet Ayenew was still in his medical residency when he found his calling, providing care to underserved populations in Minneapolis. Nearly 20 years later, he’s a respected cardiologist and community advocate in the Twin Cities, providing care while also trying to increase the number of African American physicians.
As previously shared in the 2021 Blugold View online, Dr. Woubeshet Ayenew was still in his medical residency when he found his calling, providing care to underserved populations in Minneapolis. Nearly 20 years later, he’s a respected cardiologist and community advocate in the Twin Cities, providing care while also trying to increase the number of African American physicians.
"They talked to me and listened to me and trusted me because they saw me as one of them,” says Ayenew, a native of Ethiopia who earned his undergraduate degree in biochemistry/molecular biology at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire in 1992 before going to medical school at the University of Minnesota.
After gaining perspective and experience as often the only African American in various situations throughout his career, Ayenew grew into a role that he came to see as the core of his medical practice — that of teacher, mentor, advisor and advocate for African Americans in secondary and higher education. He works to inspire and prepare young people of color to pursue the field of medicine while also removing barriers to their success.
Read the full story in the Blugold View online to learn more about Dr. Ayenew and how this dedicated Blugold cardiologist is working to serve the literal and cultural hearts of his community.
