Kemisola Bolarinwa is a trailblazing inventor, innovator, and entrepreneur with over 14 years of experience in Robotics and Embedded Systems Engineering. As the Founder and CEO of Nextwear Technologies, Nigeria’s first wearable and medical technology company, she is leading a revolution at the intersection of health and technology in Africa. Driven by purpose and innovation, Kemisola invented the Smart Bra Cup Diagnostic Device, a groundbreaking non-invasive wearable technology designed to detect early signs of breast cancer.
Early Inspiration and Career
Kemisola’s journey into Robotics and Embedded Systems Engineering began with a deep passion for STEM subjects during her secondary school years. Her active participation in the Junior Engineers, Technicians and Scientists (JETS) club further fueled her curiosity and drive, providing hands-on exposure to practical innovation. This formative experience solidified her decision to pursue a career in STEM, leading her to study Electrical and Electronics Engineering.
Commitment to Health Equity
A personal experience of losing someone dear due to limited access to quality healthcare sparked Kemisola’s commitment to health equity and technology. She recognized the stark disparities in healthcare access, particularly for underprivileged communities. This experience became the driving force behind her mission to create accessible, affordable, and life-saving medical solutions. Kemisola believes that healthcare is a right, not a privilege.
The Smart Bra Cup Diagnostic Device
The Smart Bra Cup Diagnostic Device is a revolutionary invention designed to detect early-stage breast cancer. Kemisola developed this technology in response to the limited access to breast cancer screening tools in underserved communities. The device empowers women to monitor their breast health frequently and safely, potentially saving millions of lives.
Challenges and Solutions
Developing the Smart Bra was not without challenges. Kemisola faced hurdles in accessing research resources, specialized development materials, and electronic components. Funding was another significant obstacle, slowing down progress at multiple stages. Despite these challenges, Kemisola remained committed to her vision, driven by the potential impact of her innovation.
Making Technology Accessible
To ensure the Smart Bra remains accessible and affordable, Kemisola has planned a community-based deployment model. The device will be available at primary health centers, local clinics, and through trusted healthcare professionals, with a ‘pay-per-scan’ approach to remove barriers of high upfront costs.
Leadership and Legacy
As the founder of Nextwear Technologies, Kemisola leads with purpose, innovation, integrity, inclusivity, resilience, and impact. Her leadership style aims to inspire young minds, particularly young women, to pursue their dreams in male-dominated fields. Kemisola’s legacy is centered on transformative health technology and women’s empowerment, with a focus on bridging the gap in healthcare equity.
Empowering the Next Generation
Through the Nigeria Innovative Hardware Development Society (NIHDS) and the Women-in-ICT Foundation, Kemisola is nurturing the next generation of innovators and promoting digital inclusion among women and girls. Her initiatives provide critical resources, mentorship, and training, empowering young talents to thrive in the tech ecosystem.
The Future of HealthTech in Africa
Kemisola envisions a future where Africa leads in transformative, accessible healthcare solutions. She believes that with focused investment and support for young innovators, the continent can witness a dramatic transformation in health technology innovation and accessibility. Global collaboration is key to tackling health and technology challenges in developing regions, leveraging advanced technologies and best practices while tailoring solutions to local contexts.
Conclusion
Kemisola Bolarinwa’s journey is a testament to the power of innovation and determination. Her work continues to inspire and empower women, particularly in STEM fields, while revolutionizing healthcare through technology. As she reflects, ‘true innovation is not just about technology, it’s about people’ and using our knowledge and creativity to serve others, especially those often left behind.
