Krisha Quiambao

My contributions focus primarily on SDG 3: Good health and well-being, SDG 6: Clean water and sanitation, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the goals. Through my project to mitigate the health effects of climate change in rural Zambia, I worked with local stakeholders to strengthen the national rural water supply and sanitation system. I have also been involved in development projects to improve health security and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) for resource-limited populations in the Philippines, Zambia, Indonesia, Uganda, and Canada. In 2019, I collaborated with a group to develop a provincial field epidemiology support program to provide surge capacity so that public health emergencies may be addressed expeditiously.

In my development projects, my focus is on working in partnership with community members to strengthen and enable health systems to respond to the needs of the community as they evolve.

By 2030, I would like to see a change in the perceptions surrounding international development. To me, global health involves a mutual exchange of knowledge, expertise, and resources. It is not about the “Global North” giving to the “Global South”; developed nations do not have a monopoly on good ideas. Moreover, there is often limited autonomy granted to local citizens in driving the programs and determining their own needs. I have seen how rarely the community’s definition of health is taken into consideration.

The development and implementation of effective strategies requires global cooperation. I believe we should work with the resources, knowledge, and experience of diverse societies to address global health challenges and reduce dependence on external aid.

Push yourself out of your comfort zone and try new things, whether it is a new class, skill, or volunteer program. Explore and learn about different cultures, disciplines, or people; challenge your perspectives. 

In addition to exploring externally, it can also be helpful to be introspective. Get to know your own values and share them with others. The more you talk about what sparks your passion, the more opportunities will come your way. You have no idea what the person beside you in a class, waiting for an appointment, or sitting beside you on an airplane ride can share with you.