Key skills and expertise

With 33 years of experience, the expert is highly skilled in healthcare, public health, and NGO leadership. Key qualifications include an MD, MPH, and Ph.D. The expert has led both international and local projects, founding Pediatric Care Africa and managing hospitals in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Career highlights include launching a 15-year surgery campaign, conducting large-scale health programs, and responding to disasters. Previously held roles such as CEO and CMO, the expert has overseen complex projects and secured international funding, demonstrating expertise in project management, epidemiology, and capacity building.

Project experience and donor exposure

Bringing extensive experience in international development, the expert has collaborated with donors such as the Gertler Family Foundation and PEPFAR in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The work involved project implementation, technical assistance, and capacity building in health sector projects, including hospital management and large-scale health programs like HIV prevention and inoculation campaigns. These projects were regional in scope, covering the Oriental Province and other areas in the DRC. The expert also engaged in international fundraising efforts to support hospital operations and health initiatives.

Sectors and geographic focus

Worked across diverse sectors, including health, community development, and humanitarian relief. Key roles have included CEO and founder of Pediatric Care Africa, and CEO/MD of hospitals in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Responsibilities have included project management, healthcare delivery, and disaster response. The expert has demonstrated cross-cutting expertise in epidemiology, public health, and capacity building, with a focus on Africa, particularly in South Africa, Zambia, and the DRC. This diverse experience has enabled effective leadership and implementation of large-scale projects across regional and international contexts. The expert also has experience in Portugal and the USA, contributing to a broad international perspective.

Languages and education

With a background in multilingual environments, the expert is fluent in English and Afrikaans/Flemish, with good proficiency in Portuguese. These language skills have been utilized in professional contexts across Africa, including work in multilingual teams and international collaborations. The expert's ability to communicate in these languages has been instrumental in leading and managing healthcare and humanitarian projects in diverse cultural settings. The expert holds a Doctor of Medicine (MD) and a Master of Public Health (MPH) from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), USA. Additionally, the expert completed a Ph.D. with a focus on the neuroepidemiology of FAS-PFAS in neonates and toddlers at UCLA. The expert also obtained a Professional Diploma in Tropical Medicine & Hygiene from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, UK.