Community health advocate awarded Honorary Fellowship by University

The University has awarded an Honorary Fellowship to Marie-Claire Kofi, founder and CEO of Plasma of Hope, in recognition of her outstanding contribution to supporting people living with sickle cell disease and her dedication to improving health outcomes across local communities.

Marie-Claire received the award during the University's graduation ceremonies, celebrating her work as a healthcare professional, charity leader and advocate for individuals and families affected by sickle cell disease.

On receiving the award, Marie-Claire said:

“Receiving this Honorary Fellowship from the University of Wolverhampton is a moment I will treasure for the rest of my life. This recognition is not just mine; it belongs to every family Plasma of Hope has ever supported, and to every person living with sickle cell disease who has trusted us with their story. I hope that my journey, from a hospital bed following a stroke caused by delays in treatment, to standing in this hall today, serves as a reminder that no setback is the end of the story. I am deeply honoured and profoundly grateful."

A radiographer by profession, Marie-Claire founded Plasma of Hope during the Covid-19 pandemic, inspired by her own experiences of living with sickle cell disease and the challenges faced by those navigating the condition. Under her leadership, the charity grew into a respected organisation delivering health education, advocacy, wellbeing support and community engagement initiatives across the West Midlands and beyond.

Through partnerships with the NHS, local authorities and community organisations, Plasma of Hope delivers awareness campaigns, mental health support, blood donation initiatives and creative workshops for young people. The charity also worked to encourage Covid-19 vaccination uptake among at-risk communities and helped recruit more ethnically matched blood donors through collaborative outreach programmes.

Marie-Claire is recognised not only for her impact on public health but also for her contribution to education. She works closely with the University of Wolverhampton's School of Nursing, supporting curriculum delivery, sharing her lived experience and professional expertise, and helping students develop a greater understanding of sickle cell disease. She also provides placement opportunities for undergraduate and postgraduate physiotherapy students, giving them valuable real-world experience in community healthcare settings.

Her work extends into schools, where she collaborates with healthcare partners to improve awareness and support for children and young people living with sickle cell disease, helping to reduce stigma and improve understanding among teachers and peers.

Speaking about the award, Professor Anand Pandyan, Dean of the Faculty of Education, Health and Wellbeing, said:

"Marie-Claire has supported both the School and the Faculty generously, and her work has had a significant impact within our communities. Her commitment to improving the lives of people living with sickle cell disease, supporting healthcare education and championing equitable access to care makes her a truly deserving recipient of this honour."

Receiving an Honorary Fellowship recognises Marie-Claire's exceptional leadership, public service and lasting contribution to health, wellbeing and inclusion. Her ongoing partnership with the University continues to support the development of future healthcare professionals and strengthen understanding of sickle cell disease within education, research and clinical practice.