The goal of a study on Speech Production, Physical Activity as Predictors of Emotional Resilience During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Nigeria, Ghana, Botswana, and Tanzania was measure the impact of COVID-19 on physical activity, as well as whether levels of physical activity are associated with mental and physical health during the pandemic. MSU, in collaboration with Sonde Health, University of Botswana, University of Ghana, University of Dar es Salaam, and University of Nigeria, Nsukka, launched this new study that uses Sonde Health vocal biomarkers to identify and understand the relationship between physical activity, mental health, and respiratory health of individuals living in Africa during the COVID-19 pandemic. This collaboration illustrates what private sector and higher education partnerships could do to address global challenges. The study is not only innovative, but it has potential application to other areas, regarding ways to enhance much needed diversity, equity, and inclusion in research, and improving access to communities that are normally left out due to geographic location and resource limitations.