Eva Kemp, Sharon Kemboi, Honoka Nishida, and Lynne Lagahit
The South Australian (SA) Population Health Conference is getting bigger each year.
Held on 24 October, this year’s conference had 78 abstracts and 140 attendees. Some of the PHAA SA Branch student representatives reflected on their experience and shared what they learnt and hoped to take back.
The next SA Population Health Conference will be held in 2026.
Eva Kemp, Bachelor of Health Science student, University of South Australia
The conference was an experience that challenged, encouraged and inspired me as a public health student and future professional.
The opportunity to hear about dynamic and life-changing health research, currently underway, was truly invaluable. I was reminded that health is holistic; a part of every aspect of life, and therefore, needs to be addressed using innovative person-centred approaches.
I was challenged by the rapid-fire presentations which condensed extensive research evidence and knowledge into a three-minute window. These presentations displayed the importance of using effective communication to succinctly convey health evidence. The techniques used by the presenters can be adopted to my work too, when it comes to assignment writing. We need to highlight key information in a succinct and straightforward manner. It is also a helpful way to make health information more accessible.
Research accessibility is pivotal in improving health literacy and empowering people to stay healthy. Therefore, not only did the conference open my eyes to the extensive field of public health, but it also challenged me to develop skills, such as condensing information to improve accessibility.
Sharon Kemboi, Master of Public Health student, Torrens University
The conference had many insightful presentations. I particularly enjoyed Prof Nicola Spurrier’s keynote address and the Student and Early Career Showcase.
As a student coming from another country and still finding my footing in the Australian public health landscape, Prof Spurrier’s presentation offered both orientation and reassurance, underscoring the values and leadership expectations in this field.
The presentation helped me understand that effective leadership transcends decision-making, involves holding space for uncertainty, listening, and communicating with integrity. Her reflections on navigating public health crises with clarity and compassion rekindled my sense of purpose, reminding me that public health is fundamentally about people, trust, and meaningful results.
Equally powerful were the early-career professionals’ and students’ presentations. They highlighted innovation, passion, and a strong commitment to equity. It was uplifting to see emerging voices being celebrated. I felt both inspired and connected. I envisioned my future self on that stage, sharing my work and story within this vibrant community.
Overall, the conference left me feeling informed, energised, and motivated to grow and contribute meaningfully.
Honoka Nishida, Bachelor of Public Health student, Flinders University
As professionals shared their research, my will to work in public health grew stronger. I am now more determined to pursue the Bachelor of Public Health. I am passionate about learning the discipline, but I had not yet decided what I would like to do in the future.
The conference was a great opportunity for me to identify my interest in public health. It was inspiring to hear how multidisciplinary professionals could collaborate to improve people’s health. The keynote speakers and professional development session left lasting impressions on me, helping me realise how much population health is influenced by various fields, and how those at the forefront share similar ideas.
I set a goal to build partnerships between people and organisation who want to improve the social determinants of health.
I appreciate everyone who made this opportunity possible to help deepen our understanding of population health.
Lynne Lagahit, Master of Public Health student, Torrens University
It was a privilege to be a student volunteer for the conference. My responsibilities went beyond logistics, into capturing the essence of this transformative event.
It was a busy and energising day on October 24. I was assigned as a ‘student runner’ – taking photos alongside another student volunteer, Eva Kemp. I was filming presentations and ushering attendees.
My social media updates had good engagement and allowed people to see the genuine excitement in the room.
It was wonderful to see community leaders, researchers, policymakers, and other public health professionals in one space. Breakout sessions tackled topics, including health equity, preventive health, First Nations health and public policy.
Learning from public health professionals was invaluable. I gained knowledge that would shape how I approach public health challenges in the future.
The networking sessions were also a great opportunity to connect with people across the public health sector. Thank you to the Australian Health Promotion Association and PHAA organisers who made the event possible.
Featured image: Aboriginal Health Council of South Australia Deputy CEO, Nathan Rigney presenting. Credit: Lynne Mae Lagahit
Join the PHAA SA Branch Linkedin group for updates: Linkedin.com/groups/14606930/
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