Dr. Iman Abuzeid (Sudan)
(CEO and co-founder of Incredible Health).
Dr. Iman Abuzeid, the esteemed CEO and co-founder of Incredible Health holds a remarkable journey that has left an indelible mark on the healthcare industry. Trained as a medical doctor, she honed her expertise while serving at McKinsey and leading product management in health tech startups. Her passion for learning led her to pursue a Wharton MBA, showing her commitment to constant growth and knowledge.
As the driving force behind Incredible Health's mission, Iman is dedicated to empowering healthcare professionals to lead fulfilling lives and excel in their careers. Born to Sudanese parents in Saudi Arabia, her family's background in medicine, with three surgeons in her immediate family, instilled in her a profound understanding of the crucial stepping stones in a clinical career. This knowledge fuels her unwavering belief in the potential of Incredible Health to revolutionize the way clinicians manage their professional journeys.
In 2017, Iman, the Sudanese -American, embarked on an audacious venture, co-founding Incredible Health to address the pressing nursing shortage faced by American hospitals. This innovative platform functions as an advanced version of LinkedIn, connecting nurses with open positions listed by U.S. hospitals. The impact of her groundbreaking work was further elevated when, in August 2022, she announced that the company had raised $80 million from private investors, propelling Incredible Health's valuation to an impressive $1.65 billion.
Notably, Iman Abuzeid's achievements transcend boundaries, making her one of only a few Black female founders to lead a billion-dollar company in the United States. In the esteemed company of media powerhouse Oprah Winfrey and cosmetics magnate Robyn "Rihanna" Fenty, she has carved her name among America's richest self-made women, a testament to her visionary leadership and pioneering contributions in the healthcare technology sector.
Recognizing the critical need for a transformative solution to the nursing shortage crisis, Iman's dedication to leveraging technology and innovation spurred the creation of a unique platform. Unlike other platforms primarily serving contractors, Incredible Health prioritizes empowering nurses as permanent employees, earning the trust of one in four U.S. nurses and numerous leading hospitals nationwide.
Throughout her entrepreneurial journey, Iman faced challenges in securing funding, navigating biases in the healthcare sector, and attracting top talent to her team. Her unyielding determination and innovative approach have paved the way for Incredible Health's tremendous growth and success.
One significant milestone on her entrepreneurial path was the Series B funding round, where her company raised $80 million. This substantial infusion of capital, led by Base 10 Partners as part of their Advancement Initiative, showcased their commitment to inclusivity and equity. This accomplishment solidified Incredible Health's position as a prominent player in the healthcare technology landscape and propelled Iman Abuzeid into the esteemed circle of Black female founders with billion-dollar companies.
Iman's journey exemplifies resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to creating meaningful change in the healthcare industry. Her vision of empowering healthcare professionals to lead better lives and reach their full potential through Incredible Health continues to inspire and drive progress, serving as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and advocates for equitable healthcare worldwide.
"It's probably not a good idea to overlook female CEOs or Black CEOs. Because they're driving an enormous amount of value in business. And you overlook it at your own expense. - Iman Abuzeid
(Information from Incredible Health, Aspen Ideas, Forbes, Business Elites Africa, African Shapers)