Inside the World Health Assembly: In Conversation with Eliza Kitchener

What motivated you to volunteer with the WFPHA, and what does your role involve as Research and Policy Coordinator for the Young WFPHA?

I was motivated to volunteer with the WFPHA because it provides a unique platform for young public health professionals to contribute to global health dialogue and policy development in a meaningful way.

As a Research and Policy Coordinator, I support research projects proposed and conducted by members of the Young WFPHA working group. I also contribute to the development of policy positions that represent the perspectives and priorities of young public health professionals, which are then published through the WFPHA.

How did you find the experience of presenting at the World Health Assembly?

It was fascinating to witness how global health agendas are discussed, negotiated and shaped at an international level. I felt both nervous and excited to contribute to these conversations and to represent the perspectives of young public health professionals within that space.

What was the focus of the policy statement you presented?

The policy statement (or 'intervention') advocated for the meaningful engagement of young public health professionals within the global health architecture (in response to agenda item 10.1). I was fortunate to present the intervention on behalf of the WFPHA at the World Health Assembly, addressing WHO Member States and non-state actors.

How does this topic link with your work at King’s?

My work at King’s within the Department of Nutritional Sciences focuses on advancing the consideration of vulnerable populations within national nutrition guidelines, promoting scientific rigour as the foundation for effective health policy change.

As a young public health professional, I greatly value working within a multidisciplinary team that is fostering my meaningful engagement in research. In many ways, this reflects the same principles highlighted in the intervention raised at the World Health Assembly: ensuring that young professionals are actively included in shaping the future of global health.

What did you enjoy most about attending the World Health Assembly?

What I enjoyed most was meeting delegates from around the world, each bringing different professional backgrounds, perspectives and areas of expertise. Although many of the discussions centred on significant global public health challenges, the conversations taking place in conference rooms, hallways, and even over lunch left me feeling hopeful.

It was inspiring to see so many dedicated individuals all working towards a shared goal of improving health outcomes globally while building meaningful international connections.

What motivated you to pursue a career in public health research?

A strong sense of justice has always motivated me to pursue public health. At its core, public health is about enabling all people to live with dignity, safety and hope. I aspire to contribute to the advancement of the systems and policies that make this possible, particularly for vulnerable communities who are often disproportionately affected by health inequities.

Did this experience change how you think about the role of your research in public health?

This experience expanded my understanding of the role research plays in supporting the global health architecture. I believe policies presented on the world stage are only as strong as the evidence behind them.

It reinforced for me the importance of maintaining open, collaborative approaches to science and strengthening communication between researchers, advocates and policymakers. I’m proud to contribute to research here at King's that aims to inform scientifically grounded national policy recommendations.