ThankGod Onuoha Foundation (ToF) successfully hosted a one-day, standalone scientific small meeting in the riverine community of Gelegele, Benin City , Nigeria. The meeting focused on local research into early diagnostic biomarkers and cellular therapeutic targets, bridging the gap between basic laboratory science and clinical intervention in endemic riverine regions of Gelegele, Benin City. It aligns with the scope of Disease Models and Mechanisms (DMM). Supported by a grant B292 from The Company of Biologists, the event bridged the gap between academia, students, and local indigenes to drive disease awareness and scientific engagement.