London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine

Observed globally, International Women’s Day is a moment to celebrate the achievements of women and girls everywhere, while recognising the continued need for bold action toward equality, inclusion, and opportunity.

This year’s theme, “Give to Gain,” calls for collaboration, shared progress and a reminder that when knowledge, opportunities, and support are shared, everyone benefits.

This year, we celebrate Haddijatou and Dorothy, reflecting on their resilience and shared commitment to improving lives through evidence, innovation, and meaningful community partnership.

Dr Haddijatou Mbye, a Postdoctoral Fellow, represents a new generation of African women scientists pushing the boundaries of knowledge to address some of the region’s most pressing health challenges. Growing up in a country where Malaria remains a major public health concern, her curiosity about the disease and its impact on communities shaped her journey into research.

Motivated by a desire to understand the biology of the malaria parasite and contribute to solutions, Haddijatou pursued a PhD that allowed her to explore scientific questions about how the parasite evolves and survives. Today, her research focuses on understanding how malaria parasites adapt, particularly in response to antimalarial drugs. 

Beyond the laboratory, her journey reflects resilience and determination. As a young scientist balancing the demands of research with motherhood, she has learned to navigate the pressures of long hours, deadlines, and travel. Through supportive networks and a strong sense of purpose, she has remained focused on advancing research that informs policy, strengthens health systems, and advances equity in access to healthcare. At the same time, she is helping inspire the next generation of scientists, particularly young girls who may one day follow a similar path.

As she encourages aspiring scientists: “Stay curious and never be afraid to ask questions. Science is not about having all the answers, but about being willing to explore, learn, and persist even when things feel difficult. The path may not always be easy, but your contributions can make a real difference.”

Driven by curiosity about how global systems shape local realities, Dorothy Watters, a PhD student, conducts research at the intersection of environmental and human health. Her work is guided by a planetary health perspective, through which she explores the complex relationships between climate change, ecosystems, and human well-being.

For Dorothy, science extends beyond laboratories and policy papers; it is grounded in lived experiences, and responsive to community realities.  Her PhD focuses on women’s health, a topic that is personally meaningful and closely tied to her own experience, bringing depth and care to her work with participants.

“My proudest moment in my career so far has been the qualitative research I have done with women with disabilities about their experience of heat exposure during pregnancy. I was grateful and humbled by the trust they had in sharing their stories with us. That moment made me acutely aware of the importance of centering the voices of women within research, especially those who face systemic exclusion like women with disabilities.”

Her message to young women considering careers in science or global health is simple: there is space for you.  She believes it is vital for girls to know they belong wherever their passions lead.

The journeys of Haddijatou and Dorothy reflect the essence of this year’s International Women’s Day theme. Their work advances knowledge, strengthens systems, and ensures that science serves everyone especially women and girls.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we reaffirm our commitment to creating spaces where women in science can thrive, lead, and innovate.