Leaders in Child Health

Krystal Birungi is an entomologist from Uganda working at the Uganda Virus Research Institute to end malaria in Africa through innovative science and community engagement. As part of the Target Malaria project, she helps develop genetically modified mosquitoes designed to reduce malaria transmission, addressing a disease that still kills a child every minute. Birungi makes a point to amplify voices of the communities affected by malaria. She believes African scientists are important advocates. By sharing specific, personal narratives about the human cost of malaria in Africa, she is able to demonstrate the urgent need for research investment. Krystal champions transparent communication and scientific co-development collaboration to defeat malaria. She believes that scientists, by opening their labs and engaging with society, can counter misinformation. Through her collaborative work with malaria researchers, community members and policymakers, Birungi aims to accelerate progress toward the elimination of malaria across Africa.

Dr. Naveen Thacker is a renowned Indian pediatrician and a leading Global advocate for immunization and polio eradication. His commitment began in 1993, when a polio outbreak inspired him to champion vaccination efforts. From serving as President of the Indian Academy of Pediatrics, he became the first Indian to lead the International Pediatric Association as Executive Director and President of IPA. He also served on the India Expert Advisory Group on Polio for over 10 years, where he guided national polio eradication efforts. Dr. Thacker promotes community engagement, trusted local voices, and innovative approaches like the 107 strategy, which focused on 107 specific sub-district units where polio cases were recurring. Through this strategy, the Indian team discovered that people were more receptive to the vaccine when their broader community needs were addressed, such as water delivery and infrastructure needs. He continues to combat challenges such as misinformation and vaccine hesitancy, driving efforts toward a future free of polio and preventable childhood diseases.

David Beckham is a global sports icon, entrepreneur, and philanthropist whose impact extends far beyond the field. The first English player to win league titles in four countries, his 20-year career included Manchester United, Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, and the England national team. Since retiring, he has co-founded Inter Miami CF, launched the production studio Studio 99, and partnered with Authentic Brands Group to build his global brand. A UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, Beckham also champions the King’s Foundation, Malaria No More, and the British Fashion Council, using his platform to drive positive change worldwide.

Jerop Limo is a certified program design expert whose work has been inspired by her own lived experience as a young woman living with HIV dedicated to improving outcomes of fellow young people living with HIV. She develops and implements youth-centered programs that integrate psychosocial support, awareness-building, and life skills training with an empathetic and relatable approach. She also empowers and closely works with young people who are peer educators and champions to ensure that young people have access to peer support at the health centers and in the community. Jerop advocates for policies that address the lived realities of the community she serves as they face challenges like treatment adherence, service access and stigma. She has led efforts such as resolving ARV stockouts during COVID-19. Through her work, she champions comprehensive, youth-friendly services and emboldens young people to take ownership of their health, fostering resilience and long-term well-being within their communities.