London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine

Educational/professional background

I hold an undergraduate degree in dental surgery and initially worked as a clinical dentist before transitioning to public health. My experience in clinical practice exposed me to the dismal state of healthcare in Pakistan, where I realized that many curative interventions could be avoided through strengthened preventive practices. This realization led me to join a public health consulting firm, where I could contribute to systemic improvements.

Much of my work has focused on maternal and child health, a critical area in need of attention. Additionally, through short-term consultancies with organizations like the World Bank and UNICEF in Pakistan, I have gained valuable experience in health systems strengthening, further enhancing my understanding of the broader public health landscape.

Research interests or career goals

· Research interests or career goals

My research interests lie at the intersection of health and climate, particularly in understanding and mitigating the impacts of climate change on quality of life and lifespan. Hailing from a country ranked among the top ten most vulnerable to climate change, I have witnessed firsthand the critical need for innovative and effective solutions to address these challenges.

I am also a strong advocate for mixed-method research, as I believe that evidence is not only found in data and numbers but also in the lived experiences and voices of people. LSHTM’s dedicated centres and specialized modules provide the perfect platform to delve into my research interests and equip me with the knowledge and tools necessary to achieve my long-term career goals in this field.

Why I chose LSHTM/my programme

Attending LSHTM has always been a long-held aspiration, one that I highlighted in both my university and scholarship applications. The MSc Public Health for Global Practice program aligns perfectly with my goal of addressing the public health challenges in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) like Pakistan.

The program’s curriculum, with its focus on strengthening health systems, developing policies, engaging communities, and implementing interventions in resource-limited settings, offers precisely the expertise I seek. Moreover, the faculty's renowned experience and active involvement in research and development projects in LMICs further enhance the program’s relevance. I was confident that this opportunity would equip me with the

technical skills and knowledge necessary to address the challenges I have encountered throughout my career.