Mustapha Conteh Finds Purpose in Supporting Georgia Farmworkers Through Public Health

For Mustapha Conteh, the intersection of data, service, and justice is where public health makes its deepest impact. As a Master of Public Health student at Georgia Southern University, Mustapha brought both dedication and insight to his internship with the Southwest Georgia Area Health Education Center (SOWEGA-AHEC), where he contributed to the Georgia Farmworker Health Project.

“I’ve always had a passion for community activities,” Mustapha shared. “But this experience cemented that for me. A lot of work needs to be done in rural communities, and I want to be part of that change.”

Over the course of the internship, Mustapha worked closely with community health workers and volunteers to support migrant and seasonal agricultural workers—populations often underserved by traditional health systems. His contributions included coordinating clinic volunteers, managing patient data, and serving as a liaison between SOWEGA-AHEC and Emory University’s Farmworker Project team. He also helped distribute hygiene materials and assisted with interpretation services in Spanish-speaking communities.

But the impact of the project went beyond logistics. Mustapha saw firsthand how systemic issues such as lack of transportation, language barriers, and limited clinic capacity make basic healthcare difficult to access.

“Some of the most common complaints were musculoskeletal pain and pesticide allergies,” he noted. “Many workers live far from clinics, and transportation is a huge barrier.”

Through this experience, Mustapha applied classroom knowledge in real-time—analyzing data, identifying barriers to care, and working collaboratively with professionals from multiple disciplines.

“The program helped me apply research and communication skills to real-life scenarios,” he explained. “It also helped me strengthen my interpersonal and team-building skills.”

For Mustapha, the Pathways to Practice Scholars Program was about more than just gaining experience—it was about shaping his future.

“This opportunity allowed me to meet professionals in my field and ask meaningful questions about long-term goals,” he said. “I’ve developed a passion for improving the social determinants of health in underserved and rural areas.”

As he looks ahead to his career in public health, Mustapha is focused on equity and impact.

“Migrant farmworkers are essential to our food systems,” he said. “They deserve quality, affordable healthcare—just like anyone else. I’m committed to being part of the solution.”