March 18, 2025 (Honolulu, Hawaiʻi) – The first day of the Pacific Public Health Fellowship Program (PPHFP) Summit in Honolulu was filled with inspiring discussions, impactful presentations, and valuable learning opportunities.
The day began with a keynote address from Dr. Brian Mangum on Strengthening our Public Health Commitment in the USAPIs, setting a meaningful tone for the summit. This was followed by an insightful session featuring PPHFP alumni, who shared their experiences and continued contributions to public health beyond the fellowship. A panel of Host Site Supervisors then provided firsthand accounts of the impact PPHFP fellows are making in the field.
A highlight of the day was the presentations from fellows representing Palau and Chuuk, who are part of Cohorts 4 and 5. They shared their fellowship experiences in their home islands, detailing their activities, final projects, and the ways in which the program has shaped their careers and their communities. Their dedication and passion for public health were truly inspiring.
Another significant moment was hearing from Elias David, a former Kosrae fellow, who has now come full circle as a Host Site Supervisor. Seeing alumni transition into leadership roles underscores the long-term impact of the PPHFP in building capacity and strengthening public health systems in the Pacific.
The afternoon breakout sessions provided fellows with an opportunity to deepen their commitment to public health leadership, exploring challenges, opportunities, and ways to enhance their contributions. At the same time, Host Site Supervisors participated in Mentor Enhancement Training, designed to equip them with strategies and tools to effectively support and guide current and future fellows.
The first day of the summit set a strong foundation for the days ahead. We look forward to more insightful discussions, networking, and opportunities for growth as the summit continues.
