Fiona Almeida

“Fiona Almeida is a native of South Africa who now lives in Cambridge, Massachusetts. She is a recent graduate of Tufts University, where she obtained her Master’s degree from the Urban Environment Policy and Planning Department. Fiona obtained her BA from Wellesley College and her AS from Middlesex Community College, Boston, MA. Almeida is passionate about Global Healthcare, Education, Gender Equality and the intersection of Culture and Identity. Fiona’s research focuses on a minority group of African Indians called Siddis, living in Karnataka, India.  She conducts ethnographic research and focuses on culture, identity, mental health, education and women’s reproductive health, specifically menstruation. Fiona has implemented two ongoing projects in several Siddi villages in Karnataka. She teaches women the skill of making reusable cotton sanitary napkins and raises awareness on menstrual hygiene. In 2016, she implemented an awareness and prevention project called Break Free From Depression for Adolescents. The projects in India are part of her ongoing interest and commitment to women’s education and reproductive health.  Fiona has a varied and richly textured background and has held various positions at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Wellesley College, and Harvard Smithsonian – Center for Astrophysics. She has recently worked with the Deshpande Foundation in Hubli where she worked on their English and Communication curriculum.

When Almeida, is not buried in research and designing projects, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, trying out new food spots and enjoying outdoor activities. Fiona also runs a South African networking group for South Africans in Massachusetts and neighboring states. She is currently a member of the following boards: Middlesex Community College Alumni Association, African Indian Alliance and Commonwealth Honors Society at Middlesex Community College.”