Rianna Patterson, founder of the Dominica Dementia Foundation, has achieved a significant academic milestone by earning a master’s degree with honors in Dementia: Causes, Treatments, and Diagnosis from University College London (UCL). According to Ms Patterson, the graduation ceremony took place at the Royal Festival Hall in London on July 14, symbolizing a major step forward in her dedication to dementia awareness and advocacy.
Initially, she postponed her admission to UCL due to financial constraints. Undeterred, she initiated a crowdfunding campaign on GoFundMe, successfully raising over £20,000 to fund her studies, highlighting her “determination to enhance awareness and understanding of dementia.”
She reported that her master’s research centered on dementia policies within Caribbean communities, which she believes may be among the first studies to focus specifically on English-speaking Caribbean nations. Her work, says Rianna, aligns with the global effort to develop national dementia strategies, as recommended by the World Health Organization.
Recently, her thesis was accepted for publication in the Caribbean Journal of Psychology, a peer-reviewed journal affiliated with the University of the West Indies in Jamaica, demonstrating her dedication to advancing knowledge in this vital area. Alongside her team, Rianna is reportedly collaborating with the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders in Dominica to craft a comprehensive National Dementia Plan.
At just 18 years old, Rianna founded the Dominica Dementia Foundation in loving memory of her grandfather, who succumbed to dementia in Dominica. This youth-led organization has supported families and care facilities affected by dementia, as well as promoting essential research. Her contributions earned her the Queen’s Young Leader Award from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in June 2017 at Buckingham Palace, recognizing her leadership in dementia advocacy. The foundation is preparing to mark a decade of service to the people of Dominica in 2026.
“This master’s degree is dedicated to my grandfather and all those who supported me on this journey,” Rianna shared. “Achieving this goal required immense effort, and I give all glory to God. Behind the scenes, there were countless prayers and acts of service, and I am grateful for a relationship with a God who answers prayers. To anyone reading this, I encourage you to pursue your dreams with faith; trust that God will provide the blueprint to realize your plans. Not everyone will understand your vision, but when the time comes, God will speak for Himself.”
Presently, Rianna is pursuing a PhD in Neurosicence (dementia) at the University of Nottingham. She is scheduled to present her research findings and conduct a workshop on her documentary film about dementia at the Puerto Rico Dementia Symposium this September, in observance of World Alzheimer’s Month.
Rianna hails from Picard and is the daughter of Sheryl Vidal. She is also the granddaughter of the late Terry Vidal from Salisbury and the late Evelyn Vidal from Colihaut.
Hearty congratulations to you, MS Patterson.for your accomplishments. I have followed your journey and I’m very much impressed with your determination, perseverance and patriotism.
You are a true inspiration for fellow Dominicans. Your unspoken message is that no heights is to difficult to conquer once you are intrinsically motivated.
Want to wish you abundantly well in all your future endeavors.