IDEA Exchange: I AM Health Education: Inspiring the Next Generation of Public Health Leaders
September 10 All day
The future of public health depends on preparing, supporting, and empowering the next generation of leaders. In this episode of the ASPPH IDEA Exchange Podcast, Nakia Bolden explores the role of public health education in inspiring students to see themselves as leaders and equipping them to make a meaningful impact in their communities and across the public health field.
Through the I AM Health Education initiative, Nakia shares insights into engaging emerging public health professionals, creating pathways for leadership and professional growth, and helping students connect their education with opportunities to improve population health. The conversation highlights how mentorship, representation, experiential learning, and intentional support can help students build confidence, develop their professional identities, and envision their place in the future public health workforce.
In This Episode, You’ll Explore
- How public health education can inspire the next generation of public health leaders.
- Why mentorship and representation matter for students exploring public health careers.
- Ways to help students build confidence and develop their identities as emerging public health professionals.
- How experiential learning can connect public health education with real-world impact.
- Strategies for creating meaningful pathways from education to leadership and the public health workforce.
HOST
Miranda Bosse, MPH, Director of IDEA Institute
GUESTS
Nakia Bolden, MPH, CHES®, I AM Health Education
Nakia Bolden is a health equity and population health strategist with more than seven years of experience leading evidence-based initiatives to address social determinants of health, reduce disparities, and improve population health outcomes. She is the Founder and Director of I AM Health Education®, a public health consulting and workforce development organization focused on health education, professional learning, and translating research, data, and policy into practical strategies for communities and organizations. Nakia also serves as a Clinical Assistant Professor and brings experience across government, nonprofit, healthcare, consulting, and academic settings. A Certified Health Education Specialist since 2020 and current DrPH candidate, she is passionate about strengthening the public health workforce through education, mentorship, and evidence-informed practice.