BIBHE | About Us

About us

In 2013, Dr. Aseniah Wallace, Founding President of Building International Bridges to Higher Education (BIBHE), embarked on a transformative church mission trip to eSwatini, Africa. During this journey, she encountered countless orphaned and vulnerable children (OVC) who shared their dreams of becoming doctors and professionals—dreams that seemed impossible due to extreme poverty and limited access to education. Compelled to act, Dr. Wallace envisioned a path to make these aspirations achievable.

After a year of rigorous research, her vision evolved into a three-fold mission: to empower OVC, particularly those affected by dire health conditions, to pursue careers in healthcare; to enable them to return as skilled professionals serving their communities; and to drive sustainable improvements in local and global health outcomes. In June 2014, BIBHE was officially established with a mission to equip talented OVC with the education and skills to become healthcare professionals, transforming not just their lives but the lives of those around them.

Our Vision

To drive healthcare improvements and foster educational opportunities for youth in impoverished African communities. Through strategic partnerships, we empower young minds to excel in healthcare, science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), contributing to sustainable development and brighter futures.

Our Values

We believe talent knows no economic boundaries—where opportunities are created, excellence thrives.

Our Mission

To provide orphaned and vulnerable children (OVC) with pathways to higher education in healthcare and STEM fields by building partnerships with local and international organizations, schools, and universities.

Our Goal

To break the cycle of extreme poverty in underserved African communities by equipping youth with the tools and education they need to achieve academic and professional success.

Program Overview

Building International Bridges to Higher Education (BIBHE) is dedicated to transforming the lives of OVC by guiding them toward careers in healthcare and STEM. Beyond education, we raise awareness about pressing global health crises, such as the HIV/AIDS epidemic and the tuberculosis crisis, which have severely impacted the healthcare infrastructure in eSwatini. In a country where many survive on less than a dollar a day, our work is critical.

BIBHE collaborates with international organizations to create financial and educational resources that empower participants to return to their communities as trained professionals. To ensure sustainable change, graduates commit to working in their home regions for 3–5 years, addressing local healthcare challenges and fostering economic development.

A Decade of Impact

BIBHE’s first fully sponsored student graduated from medical school with distinction from Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (formerly the Medical University of South Africa) in December 2024, taking the Hippocratic Oath as Dr. Mondli Hlatjwako. After completing his internship, he plans to specialize in primary care.

Another gifted BIBHE student recently completed her pre-medical studies at the University of Pretoria in South Africa. Upon graduating from pre-med school, she joined the university’s research team to study cell mutation in pediatric science

Program Goals

Support Gender Equality in Education
Promote equal access to education for girls in impoverished communities, aligning with the goals of local ministries of education.
STEM Opportunities for All
Provide educational pathways for OVC—both male and female—in underserved African communities, enabling them to pursue careers in healthcare and STEM fields.
Strengthen Healthcare and STEM Workforce
Address the critical workforce deficit in eSwatini by contributing to the World Health Organization’s recommendation of 2.3 healthcare workers per 1,000 people. Through contemporary education, we prepare skilled professionals to enhance health outcomes and economic stability.
Establish a Return and Retention Program
Develop a sustainable program that supports graduates in securing a livable income within their communities, fostering long-term economic growth and development for future generations.

Looking Ahead

BIBHE is expanding its reach as an advocacy organization dedicated to unlocking the potential of “gifted poor” youth. By combining healthcare and STEM education, we aim to nurture a generation of leaders equipped to address complex challenges and drive meaningful change in their communities. Together, we are building bridges to brighter futures.

All donations to BIBHE are tax-deductible and directly support our mission to transform lives.

Our Team

	President/Chair of the Board: Dr. Aseniah Wallace, DHA, MBA, BS Dr. Wallace brings over 30 years of executive leadership experience from leading corporations, including Digital Equipment, Compaq Computer, Polaroid, and Sun Microsystems. Her academic contributions span a decade, during which she served as an Interim Campus Director, Core Faculty member, and Academic Advisor. Additionally, Dr. Wallace has enriched students' learning experiences as an Adjunct Professor of Healthcare Administration and Business Communication at Webster University.
	Secretary: Carolyn Hickman-Williams, ABD Carolyn is a retired Director of Human Resources at Coastal Carolina University, and a proud lifelong, full-service member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
	Treasurer: Paula Hildebrand Paula is a seasoned finance and bookkeeping professional with extensive experience in managing financial operations. Her expertise ensures accuracy, efficiency, and financial integrity, making her an invaluable asset to the organization.
	Chief Medical Officer and Health Education Officer: Dr. James Adamson, MD Dr. James Adamson is a retired, highly respected primary care physician with over 30 years of experience in internal medicine. As the owner of a successful internal medicine practice, Dr. Adamson has dedicated his career to providing exceptional care and fostering healthier communities. His expertise and leadership continue to impact health education and medical excellence.
	Executive Program Director of STEM Programs: Carol Benjamin Carol Benjamin is a passionate advocate for empowering disadvantaged youth to overcome poverty and hopelessness. With seven years of hands-on experience as a missionary in eSwatini, she developed and implemented impactful programs for high school students, fostering education and opportunity. Carol holds an MBA from Purdue University and a Certificate in Biblical Studies from Trinity University in Chicago. Prior to her missionary work, she built a successful 30-year career in IT and Finance at GE Healthcare. Now residing in Wisconsin, Carol continues her mission to serve alongside her husband, Jack, their children, and grandchildren.
	Development/Parliamentary Procedure: Robert N. Wallace III Robert N. Wallace III is the President of Wallace Success International and a seasoned Organizational Development Consultant. A member of the prestigious National Training Laboratory Institute for Applied Behavioral Science (NTL), he brings a wealth of expertise in leadership and behavioral science. Additionally, Robert serves as a Board Member for the Emotional Intelligence Human Relations Center and as an Adjunct Professor at Webster University. His extensive experience in organizational development and parliamentary procedure makes him a recognized leader in his field.
	Medical Education Advisor: Dr. Dode Washington, MD Dr. Dode Washington is a retired, highly respected, OBGYN and former owner of a successful practice. Dode holds the title of Emeritus Officer.
	Agency-Consultant/Officer: Curtina Simmons (ABD) Curtina Simmons holds a master’s degree in social work from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and is a retired professor from Johnson C. Smith University. Honorary Memorial Officer: (February 20, 1941 – December 21, 2018)