March 20, 2025 (Honolulu, Hawaiʻi) – The final day of the Pacific Public Health Fellowship Program (PPHFP) Summit closed out three days of learning, collaboration, and celebration with a strong sense of purpose and community.
Day 3 began with warm reflections led by Christian Yarowe, followed by the PPHFP Award Ceremony, where fellows, host site supervisors, and mentors were recognized for their dedication, excellence, and commitment to public health throughout the fellowship.
The theme of the day was passion, which was evident in every session. Fellows demonstrated their deep commitment to protecting the health and well-being of their island communities through their words, actions, and presence.
Fellows then took part in “Preparing for the Workforce” sessions, facilitated by Jean Schneider and Casierra Cruz. These sessions were designed to equip fellows with practical tools, tips, and inspiration for their transition into professional public health roles.
Midday, we heard final presentations from fellows representing the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Pohnpei, Kosrae, and Yap. These presentations not only showcased the impact of their fellowship experiences but also offered a glimpse into the cultural richness of their islands, which they graciously shared with all attendees.
The summit concluded with jurisdiction-based reflection and planning sessions, followed by heartfelt closing remarks. These final moments emphasized the importance of continued connection, leadership, and investment in the public health workforce across the USAPIs.
The energy, collaboration, and shared commitment throughout the summit reinforced what we already knew—the future of public health in the Pacific is bright, and it’s powered by people with purpose and passion.
Thank you to all fellows, mentors, supervisors, and partners who made the PPHFP Summit 2025 such a success.
Check out the PIHOA Facebook page for more photos!