Influential Woman · Non-Profit / Public Health
Evelyn Botwe, DHSc, MPH
Quickbooks
President / Founder, Sustainable Impact Makers International (SIMI)
Bronx, NY 10475
My greatest success is building a life where ambition and presence can coexist. Being present for loved ones and becoming a woman my children will be proud of.
Evelyn Botwe, DHSc, MPH · In Her Own Words
Her Story
About Evelyn
Evelyn Botwe, DHSc, MPH, is an executive public health leader, educator, and social impact strategist with more than 15 years of experience advancing health equity and improving health outcomes for underserved communities. Her expertise spans maternal and child health, reproductive health, cancer prevention, mental health, HIV, hepatitis C, immigrant health, homelessness, health education, and the social determinants of health. She holds a Doctor of Health Science in Public Health from Purdue Global and a Master of Public Health from the University of New England.
Evelyn is the Founder and President of Sustainable Impact Makers International (SIMI), a nonprofit organization focused on addressing health disparities, poverty, and community needs in the United States and internationally. Through SIMI, she leads initiatives in maternal health, menstrual health, cancer prevention, mental health, workforce development, economic empowerment, and community engagement. Her leadership includes program design and evaluation, grant and budget management, research, curriculum development, strategic planning, and cross-sector partnerships. Her work has included organizing community health initiatives and the 2026 SIMI Health Equity Summit in Sunyani, Ghana, which delivered hundreds of health screenings and services while engaging students, healthcare professionals, policymakers, community leaders, and advocates.
An accomplished educator and mentor, Evelyn also serves as an Adjunct Assistant Professor, bringing practical public health experience into the classroom and helping students understand the systems that influence community well-being. Her own academic journey began at Bronx Community College after immigrating from Ghana, making her return as an educator especially meaningful. Guided by faith, resilience, service, and a commitment to community-centered solutions, Evelyn works to connect evidence with lived experience and transform public health challenges into sustainable opportunities for meaningful social impact.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Evelyn
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my faith, my parents, and a strong sense of purpose. Resilience and a genuine commitment to serving my community have guided me throughout my career, inspiring me to recognize gaps, create resources, and build meaningful partnerships. I also recognize that my success has never been achieved alone; my family, mentors, colleagues, and volunteers have been instrumental. Staying grounded in faith while remaining open to learning and growth continues to shape my journey.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I received came from my mentor, Dr. Jenet Heller, when I entered community and public health in 2009. She told me I had made an amazing choice and would become “very wealthy” by touching and positively impacting many lives—not necessarily financially, but through the people I serve. Her words stayed with me, and I recently realized just how meaningful and true that advice has been.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering my industry is to stay consistent, believe in yourself, and trust that the right doors will open. Know your value, invest in your education and skills, build meaningful relationships, and seek mentors and women who inspire you. Do not be afraid to take up space, and always look for opportunities to support and uplift others. Above all, protect your integrity and remain grounded in your values and faith.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is finding people who are willing to help open doors and create opportunities for others. At the same time, there are many opportunities for growth, collaboration, and meaningful impact for those who are willing to build relationships, stay persistent, and take initiative.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Faith, family, integrity, compassion, and accountability are the values that guide me in both my work and personal life. I strive to lead by these principles every day, treating others with kindness and respect, taking responsibility for my actions, and remaining grounded in what matters most.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.