Dr. Menghis Bairu (L), Bio Usawa's CEO and President, was a panelist at the 2026 African Diaspora Investment Symposium (ADIS) held on March 25-27 in Santa Clara, California.

Last week at Santa Clara University, California, Bio Usawa was proud to join global innovators, investors, and policymakers shaping the future of health and development for this year's African Diaspora Investment Symposium (ADIS).

ADIS 2026 was a standout success and a powerful testament to founder Almaz Negash’s visionary leadership and her exceptional team. The conference was a well-thought-out plan, flawlessly executed — bringing together ideas, capital, and action in a way that was both intentional and inspiring. Under Negash, ADIS continues to show what’s possible when purpose, excellence, and execution truly align.

Dr. Elise Brownell, Bio Usawa's Chief of Staff, also participated at the three-day convening in Santa Clara.

One message was unmistakable throughout the event: Africa does not lack talent, ideas, or ambition. What is often missing is financing at the right scale. With the right investment, the sky is truly the limit.

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Dr. Menghis Bairu speaks on the panel during the flagship “Connecting the Dots” session at ADIS 2026.

Bio Usawa CEO and President, Dr. Menghis Bairu, participated as a panelist in the flagship “Connecting the Dots” session, supported by the Gates Foundation. Moderated by Kedest Tesfagiorgis, Deputy Director of Global Partnerships & Grand Challenges at the Gates Foundation, the session explored how strategic partnerships can accelerate breakthroughs in health and well-being.

“The dialogue underscored the power of intentional connections between Africa-based scientists, the global diaspora, and partners committed to advancing health and well-being,” said Dr. Bairu.

Dr. Menghis Bairu snaps a selfie with other participants at ADIS 2026.

Dr. Bairu also shared early progress from Bio Usawa’s collaboration with Yemaachi Biotech, highlighting what becomes possible when discovery science and translational ambition align across regions.

Bio Usawa was also represented by Co-founder and Board Chair, Dr. Richard Chin, and Chief of Staff Dr. Elise Brownell, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to global engagement and partnership-driven growth.

Dr. Richard Chin (L), Bio Usawa's Co-founder and Board Chair, chats with Dr. Yaw Bediako, Co-founder and CEO of Yemaachi Biotech, at ADIS 2026.

While ADIS 2026 has concluded, the momentum continues. Bio Usawa welcomes collaboration with researchers, biotech and pharma partners, funders, and health innovators committed to translating cutting-edge science into accessible, real-world health solutions for Africa and beyond.

Onward — from connection to impact.