Kurayi Mahachi

What inspired you to study public health?

When I was young, I witnessed first hand what infectious disease epidemics do to communities. That pain, suffering, and strife I witnessed inspired me to help prevent infectious disease outbreaks.

What has been the single most rewarding experience of your career/studies so far?

Helping a doctor provide care and education to orphanages in Togo. Just witnessing the relief on the child care giver’s face as the doctor worked with patients was heart warming.

What is the one piece of advice you wish someone had given you when you were starting out in public health?

Don’t be afraid to ask questions, admit you don’t know something, or ask for help. We all learn something new and experience something new in our lives.

What do you think is the biggest challenge that the public health field should be focusing on?

Communicating and connecting with the public (communities) in a way that conveys the importance of public health, and health equity.