London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine

Can you please tell us a bit about your current work/research?

Our ultimate goal is to protect women's and children's lives across generations through technology. We now focus on identifying high-risk pregnant women, guiding them toward effective treatment, and improving perinatal outcomes.

Though we have many steps ahead, we've steadily achieved our milestones and will begin joint research with a national university this spring. By leveraging what I learned at LSHTM, I will continue dedicating myself, both as a clinician and an entrepreneur, to protecting the lives of mothers and babies worldwide.

What motivated you to study MSc Public Health?

I decided to study at LSHTM during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, when the importance of public health became strikingly clear to everyone and I was working on the front lines in a hospital, providing clinical care. I was eager to gain a broader perspective and an upstream approach to health challenges, I decided to enroll on the program. My goal was to learn how I could make a greater impact on people’s well-being on a larger scale, rather than focusing solely on individual patients in front of me.

Tell us a bit about your career so far?

After graduating from LSHTM, I had the opportunity to work internationally—including in Sierra Leone and the DRC—where I was involved in both clinical work and digital health projects. During that time, I was struck by how technology can foster innovation in healthcare, which made a profound impression on me. After returning to Japan, I co-founded nonat Inc. with my mentors. We are currently focused on developing an AI-powered diagnostic medical device to improve perinatal outcomes.

How have your studies impacted your career?

My favourite class at LSHTM was EPHI (Evaluation of Public Health Interventions). Even while attending the lectures, I couldn’t help but think, “Isn’t this a class for entrepreneurs?” It taught me to address problems systematically and logically, and to choose the most effective methods for tackling specific pain points. This rational, evidence-based approach now serves as the core philosophy behind our company’s projects.

What were your favourite memories from your studies with us?

One of my favourite memories at LSHTM was the opportunity to study alongside future leaders from around the world who shared a similar vision. The classroom environment was incredibly inspiring, allowing for deep and meaningful discussions influenced by everyone’s diverse experiences and ideas. Even now, it makes me proud to see my friends making a positive impact on global health. I hope we will have the chance to collaborate again in the future.

Why do you think it is beneficial to study at LSTHM/ in London for your course?

Studying in one of the world’s foremost global cities enables you to dive into a diverse cultural environment. You also get to build lasting relationships with like-minded future leaders who are committed to addressing global challenges. I believe that systematically studying the vast field of public health offers insights that transcend industry boundaries. This core value remains beneficial no matter which sector you eventually choose to work in.

What would your advice be to prospective students considering the programme?

Public health is no longer just an academic discipline-it requires cross-sector collaboration among industry, government, and academia. By studying at LSHTM, you can gain a global perspective while simultaneously focusing on safeguarding the health and safety of each individual. It’s truly an eye-opening experience that offers invaluable insights. You don’t just study theories; you also acquire practical skills that enable you to create meaningful change.