Priyanka Mascarenhas, Negin Mirzaei Damabi, Jay Kongsawat, Faith John, Zahra Ali Padhani, Chijindu Etalong
These six student representatives from the PHAA South Australia Branch share their experience volunteering with the Association, and how they developed confidence, networks, and skills they will use throughout their public health careers.
We’re excited to see where these young professionals go, and are proud that PHAA helped foster their growth and passion for the field.
Negin Mirzaei Damabi, PhD Candidate in Public Health, University of Adelaide
Joining PHAA was one of the most rewarding decisions I made when starting my PhD in public health.
Although initially intimidated by the application and interview process, I’m forever grateful I summoned the courage to push forward.
In this role, I had the immense privilege of engaging with esteemed leaders and pioneering researchers in public health.
Building connections with these brilliant minds and absorbing their wisdom proved invaluable.
More importantly, I had a platform to voice the unique needs of international HDR students like me.
I could convey firsthand the challenges we often face and advocate for better support systems.
Thanks to PHAA truly listening, we collaboratively planned many tailored events and conferences addressing our needs. I took pride in amplifying the voices and concerns of my fellow international students.
My involvement with PHAA opened numerous doors. I received a travel grant to present my work at a public health conference – a dream come true.
PHAA served as a guiding mentor, a resource trove, and a community that immeasurably enriched my doctoral journey in ways I’ll forever cherish.
Faith John, Master of Public Health Student, Torrens University Australia
As a passionate advocate for public health, my experience as a student representative with PHAA has been both fulfilling and impactful.
Collaboration lies at the heart of our work at the PHAA SA branch. Whether it’s organising events, workshops, or advocacy campaigns, I get to work alongside dedicated individuals who share a common goal of promoting health equity and improving population health outcomes.
I’m grateful for the opportunity to engage with a diverse range of stakeholders including fellow students, academics, and professionals working in public health.
I’ve also had the chance to develop valuable leadership and communication skills. I have gained hands-on experience that will undoubtedly shape my future career.
I am committed to using my platform to create a healthier, more equitable world for all.
Priyanka Mascarenhas, Master of Public Health graduate, Torrens University Australia
Serving as the Secretary of the student committee helped to boost my confidence and strengthen my leadership skills.
Collaborating with the committee to deliver projects allowed me to develop my organisational and management capabilities, especially in planning events such as career, networking and awards nights.
I am also thrilled that I could inspire a fellow classmate to join PHAA and the SA Branch Student Committee.
Attending PHAA conferences and events expanded my professional network and gave me the opportunity to learn from experts in the field.
Additionally, I’ve been able to contribute my own perspectives to the vibrant exchange of ideas within the public health community.
I’m so thankful for the support and guidance from professionals within the Association – from assisting with resume writing to providing feedback on my work; their mentorship has been instrumental in shaping my future career.
Volunteering with PHAA has been incredibly enriching. I’ve grown personally and professionally, and I’m excited to continue contributing to public health in Australia.
Jay Kongsawat, Master of Public Health student, Flinders University
This role has greatly deepened my understanding of public health advocacy in Australia.
I have worked with the PHAA SA executive committee for almost a year, contributing to member engagement, events, and the student subcommittee.
Each experience has taught me valuable lessons beyond my coursework, thanks to expert guidance from Dr Joanne Flavel. I am truly grateful for the inclusive and welcoming environment at PHAA SA.
In 2023, I helped draft the Advocacy for the South Australia Cancer Plan — a challenging but rewarding experience that taught me about effective advocacy and its impact on health policies.
Additionally, at the SA Award and Networking Night, I had the opportunity to learn from other students who have contributed to public health research and were recognised for their efforts.
This experience helped me understand the impact of academic research in public health and expand my professional network.
If you are a student passionate about public health, I encourage you to get involved with PHAA and contribute to our community’s wellbeing.
Zahra Ali Padhani, PhD Candidate in Public Health, University of Adelaide
When I first arrived in Australia, whispers about PHAA filled my ears.
Intrigued by its mission, I eagerly sought opportunities to contribute. When the chance arose to become a student representative for PHAA SA, I seized it.
My time as a student representative has been a whirlwind of growth and connection, punctuated by meaningful connections and impactful experiences.
One of the most rewarding aspects has been the chance to connect with public health researchers and engage with both experts and fellow students passionate about health.
Beyond networking, my role gave me a platform to develop professional skills; from social media campaigns, to promoting PHAA SA activities and coordinating events, to reviewing abstracts and awards.
Additionally, the professional development sessions tailored for student representatives have been immensely helpful.
The recognition and appreciation I’ve received, including awards and travel grants to attend nationwide PHAA conferences, have affirmed the value of my contributions.
What truly sets PHAA SA apart is its sense of community, united by a common purpose; to advance public health.
Chijindu Etalong, Master of Public Health graduate, Torrens University Australia
My involvement with PHAA SA has led to exponential growth both personally and professionally.
I learnt to step out of my comfort zone – to be bold, put my hand up for volunteering, and grasp opportunities to enhance my soft and transferable skills.
I am amazed at how much I’ve grown within the past year of volunteering as a student representative, in the capacity of alternate Chair and Secretary of the Student Subcommittee.
As an international student of public health, I was uncertain about the future of my career.
The PHAA mentoring program and mentorship of Dr Joanne Flavel broadened my horizon, offered perspective, and helped me fine-tune my direction.
I was privileged to contribute to advocacy and policy submissions during my tenure and was finally able to handpick where I had genuine interest.
I eagerly look forward to diving into public health research and health advocacy, and contributing to the betterment of public health, not just in Australia but in my home country, Nigeria.
PHAA SA has amazing opportunities for networking with fellow student representatives, members of the executive committee, and broader public health workforce through enriching events.
Prior to joining PHAA, I knew very little about networking opportunities and rarely attended events. Now, just share an event and I’ll show up!
Volunteering as a student representative with PHAA is one of the best things that I’ve done since arriving in Australia, and I look forward to a lifetime with the Association.
Nominations are now open for 2024-25 SA Branch Student Representatives. SA PHAA members will find the call for nominations in their email, and the form to nominate as a student representative is available here.
Editor’s note: It’s National Volunteer Week until 26 May, and we want to take the opportunity to thank all of our PHAA members who volunteer their time to serve others via our branches, special interest groups, advisory bodies, conference organising committees, and during our policy review cycles. Our success, our ability to achieve positive results with governments and other entities, is because of your help.
Picture: Supplied. (L to R): Chijindu Etalong, Faith John, Priyanka Mascarenhas.
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