The Association of Dental Implantology (ADI) has always believed that the future of dental implantology depends on who enters into it. Not just how skilled the next generation of clinicians will be, but also how diverse, how representative, and how well supported they are as they navigate a field that has historically been difficult to access. The ADI Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme was created to address that directly, and each year the stories of its recipients demonstrate exactly why it matters.
This year, two exceptional clinicians have been awarded ADI scholarships. Their journeys are different in their details but united in their ambition and their commitment to giving back to the communities that shaped them.
Dr Murielle Njomgang – from Cameroon to Harley Street, and beyond
Murielle’s journey into dental implantology has spanned three countries and two languages. Born in Cameroon and trained initially in Paris, she is now undertaking an MSc in Implantology at UCL Eastman Dental Institute – a milestone she describes as “a long-held ambition.”
Her path into the field was, in her own words, “gradual but very intentional.” A passion for dental implants developed during her foundational training, deepening through a postgraduate implantology course before her admission to UCL confirmed the direction she had been working towards. In a clinical and academic environment, precision of communication is paramount. Learning to practise in English at around the age of 40 required, she says, “a lot of persistence and stepping outside of my comfort zone on a daily basis.”
The ADI scholarship carries meaning beyond just the practical for Dr Njomgang. “It gives me a sense of belonging within implant dentistry as a minority ethnic professional,” she says, “which is incredibly motivating.” She is particularly excited about the educational resources, study clubs, and mentorship opportunities that ADI membership unlocks – and she hopes that what she achieves will open doors for others.
“I would like to inspire and support others from African and underrepresented backgrounds who are interested in dentistry and implantology,” she says, “and help make the field more inclusive and accessible.”
Her message to future applicants is inspiring: “The ADI is clearly looking to support potential, not perfection. Be honest about your journey, your goals, and your challenges – and go for it.”
Dr Nyaradzo Mutezo – care rooted in community
Nyaradzo comes to her MSc in Implantology at the University of Bristol with almost a decade of experience in general dentistry and a clear sense of why she is here. Her motivation lies not only in clinical advancement but in the desire to improve access for those in underserved communities – as well as to carry forward the hopes of those who supported her journey.
“My journey into implant dentistry has been driven by a desire to provide patients with long-term, functional and aesthetic solutions,” she explains, “particularly for those affected by tooth loss in underserved communities.” She is acutely aware of the privilege that postgraduate education at Bristol represents. And that awareness, she says, grounds and motivates her in equal measure.
The ADI scholarship, for Dr Mutezo, is affirmation as much as it is support. “It reassures me that I am on the right path,” she says. When reflecting on what the ADI represents, she draws on the Zimbabwean philosophy of ubuntu: the principle that, within community, humanity can achieve greatness. “Access to experienced mentors, masterclasses, and study clubs will be instrumental in shaping both my clinical development and my professional confidence.”
Her ambitions extend beyond the surgery. She hopes to increase the visibility of African and Afro-Caribbean professionals in implant dentistry, and to return to her home community of Nyanyadzi, Zimbabwe, to mentor young students and demonstrate what is possible.
“This scholarship represents more than personal progress,” she says. “It is an opportunity to carry forward the hopes of my community and contribute to shaping the next generation of dental professionals.”
She, too, has a powerful message to those considering applying in the future. “I would unreservedly encourage others to take that step. Your goals are valid, and your perspective has value.”
About the ADI scholarship and membership
Now in its third year, the ADI Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme supports Black students pursuing postgraduate studies in dental implantology or a related field at a UK university. Each scholarship is worth up to £10,000 and includes one-to-one mentorship with an experienced implant clinician, complimentary ADI membership for the duration of postgraduate studies, and access to the full range of ADI educational resources, events, and professional networks.
The scheme is open to applicants with a BDS and valid GDC registration who have been accepted onto a UK-based MSc or PGDip programme in which dental implantology is included. Applications for the next cohort will open in due course. To find out more, visit the website today.
The ADI is the UK’s leading membership organisation for dental implantology, with over 2,400 members across the dental team. Membership is open to dentists, dental hygienists, dental therapists, dental technicians, and students, with a newly restructured Fellowship Pathway offering four tiers: Associate Member, Full Member, Associate Fellow, and Fellow, which each align with experience and expertise.
Members benefit from access to a thriving peer network and educational resources, as well as significant discounts on ADI events and congresses, and more. Winners of the ADI scholarship can access these benefits for free.
For more information, please visit www.adi.org.uk
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