We are proud to share that Edinburgh Futures Institute MSc Narrative Futures student, Walter Conwell, MD, has been selected as one of nine recipients of the Our Minds Scholarship for his documentary project on Black American trauma.
Hosted by the University’s Biomedical Sciences programme, the Our Minds Scholarship supports interdisciplinary projects that explore the inner workings of the mind through scientific or creative practice.
Walter’s project, “Generational Healing Through Storytelling: Addressing Black American Trauma,” blends personal narrative, observational documentary filmmaking, and biomedical research—including epigenetics and neuroscience—to explore how historical trauma is passed down through generations in Black American families.
Drawing on his unique background as a physician, researcher, and storyteller, Walter aims to make complex mental health science more accessible, while using the power of storytelling to support collective healing and understanding.
Walter is a practicing physician specialising in Pulmonary Disease, Critical Care Medicine, and Sleep Medicine. He has published numerous peer-reviewed articles on topics related to medical education, health economics, and health equity.
He currently serves as President of TruLite Health, a health technology company focused on health equity and health optimisation.
He most recently served as Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer and Associate Dean for Faculty Development at the Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta, Georgia.
A graduate of the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Walter received his Bachelor of Science degree from Florida A&M University and Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Colorado Business School.
Walter’s project will be developed under the mentorship of Dr Amy Hardie, Head of Research at Edinburgh College of Art, and will unfold over the coming year with support from the scholarship.
We look forward to following Walter’s journey as his documentary comes to life and shines a light on generational trauma, resilience, and the transformative power of narrative.
Walter said:
“Storytelling is a powerful tool for healing. Through this project, I hope to bridge science and lived experience to honour the resilience of Black families and explore how narrative can shape both our understanding of past trauma, and our path forward.”
Congratulations, Walter!
