Today we’d like to introduce you to Renarda Jones
Hi Renarda, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
I am a 20-plus-year clinical research professional with a passion for educating underrepresented communities about clinical trials. Being from one of those underrepresented communities, I could not sit and watch my community miss out on important medical discoveries that would be beneficial to them. In 2023, I formed Diverse Research Now, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and began the work to ensure health equity in clinical trials.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
No, not a smooth road at all. Due to the many historical systemic injustices that has happened in healthcare to black and brown individuals in the U.S., mistrust has been a barrier for these individuals desire to participate in clinical trials, many hesitate to get involved. Also, access to and knowledge about clinical trials has been seen as an issue in ensuring there is a proper representation of black and brown individuals in clinical trials.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Diverse Research Now (DRN) is a nonprofit organization founded to address the underrepresentation of minorities in clinical trials. We recognize that this lack of diversity contributes to health disparities among communities of color, and we are committed to driving change. Our mission is to increase the participation of people of color in clinical trials by providing education and support throughout the trial process. We aim to transform the perceptions and responses of communities of color toward clinical trials.
DRN is a one-of-a-kind organization. Our approach is innovative, and we are proud of that because it will take novel ideas to increase diversity in clinical trials, which is so important for the discovery of treatments and medications that work well for all people.
We want readers to know we have created unique programs and services for them as they consider participating in a clinical trial. We will advocate, inform, protect, and support underrepresented community members through the clinical trial process.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
The most important lesson I have learned along this journey from the community is that they want to be educated about clinical trials; they want to learn how clinical trials could be a valuable option for them. We know it will take some time, but we will increase diversity in clinical trials, one trial, one community, and one participant at a time.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.diverseresearchnow.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diverse_research_now/
- Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/DiverseResearchRow?mibextid=LQQJ4d&_rdc=1&_rdr
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpIsYsQOm2jIxXEi_zzEg_w
