Presidents' Fund Awardees 2025
The winners of this year’s Presidents' Fund, which supports potential RSTMH members and Fellows from low- and low-middle income countries by paying awardees’ annual membership subscription for three years, have been announced.
We thank our Presidents, Professor Margaret Gyapong and Dr Wendy Harrison, for thoughtfully selecting these awardees from a record number of applicants.
Arohi Chauhan
Dr. Arohi Chauhan is a public health researcher and PhD scholar whose work focuses on the intersection of chronic infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, and health system strengthening. Her research emphasizes health literacy, tuberculosis multimorbidity, and equity-driven approaches to improve outcomes in vulnerable populations.
Receiving the RSTMH Presidents’ Fund award is more than a personal milestone, it is a significant recognition for researchers from low- and middle-income countries like India, where voices are often underrepresented in global health discourse. It validates years of persistent work in public health and underscores the value of research grounded in local realities. But recognition is only one side of the coin. This award also brings responsibility to speak louder, act bolder, and ensure that evidence reaches the communities and policies where it matters most. It strengthens my commitment to championing vulnerable populations and advancing the global imperative of health equity.
Dominic Inaido
Dr.Inaido is a dedicated training surgical registrar at Alotau Provincial Hospital in Milne Bay Province Papua New Guinea. As an early career professional he believes in the importance of research & empowering young doctors to improve the current standards of healthcare. He is passionate about health awareness, helping others and is the founder of PNG Medical Blog which strives to educate his people & the world about medicine in PNG.
As a training MO in a developing nation I am privileged and honoured to receive this award. Working in a limited resource setting in a country with over 800 languages is an extremely challenging and rewarding job.
I look forward to networking & sharing with other members of this prestigious society on ways to improve health services in our own little pieces of paradise.
Peace Oregbesan
Peace Oregbesan is a public health professional and health communicator from Nigeria, passionate about leveraging communication, social media, and community engagement to address pressing health challenges such as vaccination, mental health, and neglected tropical diseases.
Being awarded the RSTMH Presidents’ Fund is both an honor and an encouragement. This membership gives me the opportunity to grow, connect with experts, and contribute meaningfully to advancing tropical medicine and global health.
Vivian Philemon Mushi
Vivian Philemon Mushi is an Assistant Lecturer and Junior Researcher at Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences in Tanzania. She teaches and conducts research, with a particular focus on Neglected Tropical Diseases affecting vulnerable populations. She is currently completing her PhD on Onchocerciasis in Mahenge, Tanzania, developing sustainable interventions to reduce transmission, lower morbidity incidence, and improve health outcomes.
I am deeply honoured to receive the RSTMH Presidents’ Fund. This recognition not only motivates me to continue advancing research on Neglected Tropical Diseases but also strengthens my commitment to developing sustainable interventions that improve health outcomes for vulnerable communities. I look forward to engaging with the RSTMH network, sharing knowledge, and contributing to global efforts to reduce the burden of these diseases.