Rianna Patterson is a PhD candidate at Nottingham University and the founder of the Dominica Dementia Foundation. As a dementia activist and public speaker, she has made significant contributions to the discourse surrounding dementia, particularly in the Caribbean context. Her journey began when she established a youth-led dementia charity in memory of her grandfather, which laid the foundation for her ongoing advocacy work.

Rianna's commitment to raising awareness about dementia has led her to create the documentary film "Dementia: The Island Journey," which explores the impact of dementia in Caribbean communities. She has shared her insights on various international platforms, including events in the Caribbean, the UK, and the USA, where she has engaged with diverse audiences on the importance of intergenerational connections and mental health.

In recognition of her efforts, Rianna was honoured as a Queen’s Young Leader by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. This accolade included a speaking engagement on the BBC One Show with Prince Harry, highlighting her influence as a changemaker. She has also participated in high-profile discussions, such as the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, where she addressed global leaders and young people on dementia-related issues.

Rianna holds a BSc (Hons) in Psychology from the University of Kent and a master’s degree in dementia from UCL, where her thesis focused on dementia policies in English-speaking Caribbean countries. Her academic pursuits were supported by a successful crowdfunding campaign, demonstrating her determination and resourcefulness.

Through her consultancy work with FTSE 100 companies, Rianna develops employee wellbeing programmes, further extending her impact on mental health and social responsibility. Her narrative style and personal experiences resonate deeply with audiences, making her a compelling advocate for change in the fields of dementia awareness and youth empowerment.