If I had one word to describe 2020, as an emerging public health professional, it would be “frustration”. I’ve certainly learnt this year that things do not always go your way, and it’s better to always expect the unexpected. Despite all the challenges of this year, I think what’s been most important to me is how I’ve grown and learnt from these experiences. At times, I’ve felt quite isolated but belonging to the IWGHSS has brought a sense of connection and purpose to my life – and just proof that we can grow and adapt as a community. 

As difficult as 2020 has been, it’s also been a window of opportunity to implement real change. I see it as a chance for emerging public health professionals to really make their voices heard and I hope that we can all together work towards strengthening health systems across the globe.

Lynn Bust, AFR