Rasha Fouad | Healthcare Data Analysis | Research Excellence Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Rasha Fouad | Healthcare Data Analysis | Research Excellence Award

 Kind Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences | Saudi Arabia

Prof. Dr. Rasha Fouad is a distinguished nursing scholar with a PhD in Nursing, specializing in community and gerontological health nursing. She earned her Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate degrees from Alexandria University. With over 29 years of professional experience, she has held key academic and leadership roles, including Professor of Gerontological Nursing, Head of Gerontological Nursing Department, Vice Dean for Community Service and Environmental Development, and Acting Dean. She has also contributed internationally as an Assistant Professor in Jordan and Saudi Arabia. Prof. Fouad has taught a wide range of courses at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, including gerontological nursing, psychosocial aspects of aging, nursing administration, community health, and research methodology. Her research interests focus on gerontological nursing, psychosocial well-being of older adults, community health, and nursing education. She is an active reviewer for several international journals and has conducted numerous workshops on research methods, academic enhancement, and simulation-based learning. Her dedication to advancing nursing education and research has earned her recognition for excellence, inspiring future generations of nursing professionals through her teaching, mentorship, and scholarly contributions.

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Featured Publication

Elaheh Keshavarz | Acquired Communication Disorders | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Elaheh Keshavarz | Acquired Communication Disorders | Best Researcher Award

University of Manitoba | Canada

Elaheh Keshavarz is a rehabilitation sciences professional whose academic and clinical work focuses on communication disabilities, financial inclusion, and accessible service delivery. She completed her M.Sc. in Rehabilitation Sciences at the University of Manitoba with a strong research profile, building on her B.Sc. training in Speech-Language Pathology. Her graduate work examined the experiences of adults with post-stroke communication disabilities in financial environments, contributing meaningful insights into inclusion and accessibility, while her earlier research explored speech rate variations across age groups. She has published in respected journals such as the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and the Journal of Communication Disorders. With extensive experience as a Speech-Language Pathologist across clinical, educational, and community settings in Canada and Iran, she has supported children and adults with diverse developmental and acquired communication needs. Her roles have also included research assistantships and positions in child development centres, reflecting a commitment to interdisciplinary care. She has earned multiple academic scholarships recognizing her excellence and research potential. Her interests span communication accessibility, brain injury, financial literacy, and evidence-based rehabilitation. She remains dedicated to advancing inclusive practices and contributing to research that improves participation and quality of life for individuals with communication challenges.

Profile : Scopus

Featured Publication

Should You Tell Others That You Live With Brain Injury? Things to Consider About Brain Injury and Disclosure, 2025

Shruti Shukla | Social Impact Young Researcher Award| 

Ms. Shruti Shukla | Social Impact |  Young Researcher Award 

Technical University of Munich | Germany

Ms. Shruti Shukla is a dedicated researcher in global health with a strong focus on gender equity, adolescent maternal and child health, and the socio-economic determinants of well-being in low- and middle-income countries. She is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Global Health at the Technical University of Munich, Germany, where her research examines the impact of gender transformative interventions on adolescent maternal and child health outcomes. She holds an MSc in Global Health from Maastricht University, a Postgraduate Diploma in Liberal Arts from Ashoka University, and an MSc in Biotechnology from Savitribai Phule Pune University. Her extensive professional experience includes research associate roles at TUM and Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, contributing to projects on economic violence, intimate partner violence, and the impact of COVID-19 on gender inequities. She has also worked as a project coordinator for community-based health programs in India focusing on pneumonia and anaemia prevention. Her research interests encompass public health policy, gender-based violence prevention, and global health systems. She has delivered lectures on global and maternal health and contributed to several international collaborations. Ms. Shukla continues to pursue evidence-based approaches that promote equity, resilience, and empowerment in global health contexts.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Shukla, S., Shenderovich, Y., Jacobs, C., & Steinert, J. I. (2025). Pedalling progress? Assessing the long-term impact of a bicycle intervention on adolescent maternal and child health in Zambia. Social Science & Medicine.

Shukla, S., Kharade, A., Böhret, I., Jumaniyazova, M., Meyer, S. R., Abejirinde, I.-O. O., Shenderovich, Y., & Steinert, J. (2025). How do gender transformative interventions reduce adolescent pregnancy in low- and middle-income countries: A realist synthesis. Journal of Global Health.

Shukla, S., Mosha, N. R., Meyer, S. R., Harvey, S., Lees, S., Mshana, G., & Stöckl, H. (2025). Women’s informal group participation and intimate partner violence in Mwanza, Tanzania: A longitudinal study. Social Science & Medicine.

Steinert, J. I., Shukla, S., & Satish, R. V. (2024). Navigating distress: Exploring factors affecting adolescent girls’ wellbeing during and after a violence-focused survey in Maharashtra, India. Child Abuse & Neglect.

Shukla, S., Abejirinde, I.-O. O., Meyer, S. R., Shenderovich, Y., & Steinert, J. I. (2024). Mechanisms behind gender transformative approaches targeting adolescent pregnancy in low- and middle-income countries: A realist synthesis protocol. Systematic Reviews.

Shukla, S., Castro Torres, A. F., Satish, R. V., Shenderovich, Y., Abejirinde, I.-O. O., & Steinert, J. I. (2023). Factors associated with adolescent pregnancy in Maharashtra, India: A mixed-methods study. Sexual and Reproductive Health Matters.

Meyer, S. R., Hardt, S., Brambilla, R., Shukla, S., & Stöckl, H. (2023). Sociological theories to explain intimate partner violence: A systematic review and narrative synthesis. Trauma, Violence, & Abuse. Advance online publication.

Amon Exavery | Statistical Analysis | Transcontinental Excellence in Research Data Analysis Award

Dr. Amon Exavery | Statistical Analysis | Transcontinental Excellence in Research Data Analysis Award

University of Dodoma | Tanzania

Dr. Amon Exavery is a distinguished statistician and public health researcher with over 15 years of experience in research, evaluation, and learning. He holds a Ph.D. in Statistics from the University of Dodoma, a Master’s degree in Epidemiology from the University of the Witwatersrand, and a Bachelor’s degree in Statistics from the University of Dar es Salaam. Dr. Exavery has led numerous large-scale health and social service research projects, including impactful programs on Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC), HIV/AIDS, malaria, WASH, nutrition, reproductive, maternal, and child health, adolescent sexual and reproductive health, and sustainable livelihoods. As a Senior Research and Learning Advisor at Pact Tanzania, he has spearheaded multiple secondary data analyses, impact evaluations, and evidence-based program improvements. Previously, he served as a Statistician and Research Scientist at Ifakara Health Institute and Monitoring & Evaluation Officer at Jhpiego, where he applied advanced statistical modeling, multilevel analysis, and predictive analytics to inform policy and practice. A prolific author, Dr. Exavery has published over 40 peer-reviewed articles, presented at international conferences, and contributed to global public health knowledge. Recognized for his strategic leadership, mentorship, and innovative research approaches, he continues to drive evidence-based interventions and strengthen research capacity across Tanzania and the wider region.

Profile : Orcid

Featured Publications

Exavery, A., Kirigiti, P. J., Balan, R. T., & Charles, J. (2026). “Enhancing Longitudinal Impact Evaluation of Non-Experimental Interventions: A Comparative Analysis of Generalized Estimating Equations and Multilevel Models Based on Empirical Evaluation of Temporal Change in Food Security Following an Economic Empowerment Intervention.” Evaluation and Program Planning.

Exavery, A., Kirigiti, P. J., Balan, R. T., & Charles, J. (2025). “Determinants of Participation in WORTH Yetu Economic Empowerment Intervention among Caregivers of Orphaned and Vulnerable Children in Tanzania: A Longitudinal Multivariable Logistic Regression Analysis.” Social Sciences & Humanities Open.

Exavery, A., Kirigiti, P. J., Balan, R. T., & Charles, J. (2024). “Longitudinal Evaluation of the Influence of WORTH Yetu on Household Economic Status Based on the Count of Non-Asset Resources for Orphaned and Vulnerable Children’s Well-Being in Tanzania.” Child Indicators Research.

Exavery, A., Katbi, M., Kirigiti, P. J., Balan, R. T., & Charles, J. (2024). “Multivariate Mixed-Effects Ordinal Logistic Regression Models with Difference-in-Differences Estimator of the Impact of WORTH Yetu on Household Hunger and Socioeconomic Status among OVC Caregivers in Tanzania.” PLOS ONE.

Exavery, A., Alam, K., Charles, J., Barankena, A., Bajaria, S., Minja, E., Mulikuza, J., Mbwambo, T., Ally, A., Mseya, R., et al. (2022). “Impact of Household Economic Strengthening Intervention on Food Security among Caregivers of Orphans and Vulnerable Children in Tanzania.” PLOS ONE.

Amohelang Lehloa | Public Health Analytics | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Amohelang Lehloa | Public Health Analytics | Best Researcher Award

University of Cape Town | Lesotho

Ms. Amohelang Lehloa is a dedicated Registered Audiologist and Public Health professional with expertise in audiological rehabilitation, hearing technology, adult education, and evidence-based practice. She has built her career around advancing hearing healthcare, supporting community health initiatives, and contributing to impactful research in audiology and public health. Her clinical and academic journey reflects a strong commitment to patient-centered care, strategic project management, and multidisciplinary collaboration. Fluent in Sesotho and English, she integrates her skills in clinical audiology, supervision, and public health education to foster sustainable healthcare solutions and improve therapeutic outcomes for diverse populations.

Professional Profile

Orcid

Education

Ms. Lehloa holds a Master’s degree in Public Health with a specialization in Epidemiology from the University of Cape Town, complemented by an Honours degree in Audiology from the same institution. Her educational background equips her with a robust understanding of both the clinical and epidemiological aspects of healthcare, enabling her to bridge the gap between individual patient care and population health strategies. Additionally, she has pursued international education, which has broadened her perspective on global health challenges and innovations in audiological science.

Experience

Her professional experience spans clinical practice, academic teaching, research coordination, and project management. As a Clinical Audiologist at HearSense, she performs comprehensive hearing assessments, hearing aid fittings, vestibular and tinnitus management, and aural rehabilitation while actively engaging in public health outreach programs. Previously, she served as Project Manager for the International Epidemiology Databases to Evaluate AIDS (IeDEA), where she managed research collaborations, regulatory compliance, stakeholder engagement, and data-driven project reporting across international institutions. She also contributed to academia as a Public Health Lecturer and Audiology Tutor at the University of Cape Town, supervising clinical students and developing curriculum content to enhance future professionals’ competencies. Furthermore, her early leadership as Head of SHAWCO Audiology in a student-led non-profit organization underscores her dedication to serving underserved communities through early hearing loss detection, intervention, and awareness campaigns.

Research Interest

Ms. Lehloa’s research interests include comorbidities affecting pregnant women living with HIV, high-frequency audiometry in children, and the integration of public health strategies into audiological care. Her work explores the intersection of communicable and non-communicable diseases in maternal health, the diagnostic value of high-frequency hearing assessments, and patient and public involvement (PPI) in research design and implementation. She has participated in international working groups such as the Forgaty-IeDEA mentorship program and has presented her findings at global platforms, including the CROI conference in Denver, Colorado, USA. Her research activities emphasize improving health outcomes through evidence-based approaches and collaborative data analysis.

Awards

Throughout her academic and professional journey, Ms. Lehloa has been recognized for her excellence and leadership. She is a recipient of the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship, awarded to outstanding young scholars from Sub-Saharan Africa, and has been listed on the Faculty of Health Science Dean’s Merit List at the University of Cape Town. Additionally, her membership in the Golden Key Honour Society reflects her commitment to academic achievement, professional growth, and community service. These accolades highlight her dedication to advancing both clinical practice and public health research.

Publication

Lehloa, A.J., Kalk, E., Davies, M.-A., Nyemba, D., Mehta, U., Malaba, T., Petro, G., Boulle, A., Myer, L., Madlala, H.P. (2025). “Comorbidities in Pregnant South African Women Living with HIV and Associations with Adverse Birth Outcomes: A Prospective Cohort Study.” BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth.

Conclusion

Ms. Amohelang Lehloa exemplifies the integration of clinical expertise, public health knowledge, and academic leadership to address hearing health and broader epidemiological challenges. Her career reflects a balance of hands-on patient care, educational mentorship, research innovation, and international collaboration. With strong skills in audiological assessment, rehabilitation, hearing aid technology, strategic project management, and public health advocacy, she continues to contribute to the development of inclusive and sustainable health systems. Her work not only improves individual patient outcomes but also advances the field of audiology within a public health framework, creating meaningful impact across communities.

Najim Alshahrani – Public health – Best Researcher Award 

Assist Prof Dr. Najim Alshahrani - Public health - Best Researcher Award 

University of Jeddah - Saudi Arabia

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Assist Prof Dr. Najim Zafer Alshahrani embarked on his academic journey with a solid foundation in medicine and public health. Born on September 21, 1989, he completed his high school education at First Alabna'a Secondary School in Hafr Al-Batin, Saudi Arabia. His pursuit of higher education began at King Abdulaziz University in Jeddah, where he obtained his Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS). This foundational medical education set the stage for his future contributions to the field of preventive medicine and public health.

Driven by a desire to further his expertise, Alshahrani pursued a Master of Public Health (MPH) from the prestigious University of Sydney, Sydney Medical School in Australia. This international experience broadened his perspective and equipped him with advanced knowledge and skills in public health. Additionally, he achieved a Certificate in Travel Health (CTH) from the International Society of Travel Medicine in Dunwoody, United States, showcasing his commitment to specialized areas of public health.

Professional Endeavors

Assist Prof Dr. Najim Zafer Alshahrani's professional career is marked by a series of significant roles that highlight his dedication to preventive medicine and public health. Currently, he serves as an Assistant Professor of Preventive Medicine and Public Health at the Family and Community Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Jeddah. His academic role involves mentoring and supervising undergraduate medical students, particularly in their field health promotion projects.

Alshahrani has held several key positions, including Chairman of the Research Ethical Local Committee at Alborg Diagnostics and Founder & CEO of the Arab Clinical Research Institute (ACRI). His leadership extends to founding and directing the SBPM Platform for Educational and Research Developmental Services in Public Health and Preventive Medicine. These roles underscore his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to advancing research and education in his field.

Contributions and Research Focus

A notable aspect of Alshahrani's career is his significant contributions to research. He has been the lead researcher on projects aimed at promoting physical activity through evidence-based policies in Saudi Arabia. His work on the use of mobile technologies to promote physical activity and reduce sedentary behaviors in the MENA region culminated in a systematic review and meta-analysis manuscript, showcasing his research prowess and focus on contemporary public health challenges.

Alshahrani's research endeavors are not limited to physical activity promotion. He has also been involved in various health needs assessments, such as the Community Quantitative and Qualitative Health Need Assessment Survey in the Western Region of Saudi Arabia. His role in the CDC Investigation of the MERS outbreak and participation in the national awareness campaign for swine flu further illustrate his commitment to addressing pressing public health issues.

Accolades and Recognition

Throughout his career, Najim Zafer Alshahrani has received numerous awards and honors that reflect his excellence in research, teaching, and professional practice. He was awarded the Dean of the College of Medicine Excellency Award for the best-distinguished Faculty Member in Research Field (2023) and the Excellence in Research Award during his residency years at the Saudi Board of Preventive Medicine in Abha center (2022).

His international recognition includes the Certificate of Excellence in Scientific Poster Presentation at the International Society of Travel Medicine (ISTM) conference and the International Student Award for Volunteer Excellence from the University of Sydney. These accolades underscore his global impact and dedication to advancing public health knowledge and practice.

Impact and Influence

Assist Prof Dr. Najim Zafer Alshahrani's impact extends beyond his immediate academic and professional circles. As a mentor and supervisor, he has guided numerous medical students and residents in their research projects, fostering the next generation of public health professionals. His role in various national and international organizations, including the International Society of Travel Medicine and the Public Health Association of Australia, positions him as a key influencer in the field of preventive medicine.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Najim Zafer Alshahrani's legacy is poised to be one of significant contributions to public health and preventive medicine, both in Saudi Arabia and internationally. His ongoing involvement in research, education, and professional practice ensures that he will continue to influence and shape the field. As the Founder & CEO of the Arab Clinical Research Institute, Alshahrani is well-positioned to drive innovation and foster collaborative research initiatives across the region.

In summary, Najim Zafer Alshahrani's career is characterized by a blend of academic excellence, professional leadership, and impactful research. His contributions to public health and preventive medicine are substantial, and his dedication to advancing knowledge and practice in these fields is evident in his numerous roles and accolades. As he continues to mentor future health professionals and lead key research initiatives, his influence and legacy in the field will undoubtedly grow.

Citations

A total of 718 citations for his publications, demonstrating the impact and recognition of her research within the academic community.

Angelo Riccio – population exposure – Best Scholar Award

Assoc Prof Dr. Angelo Riccio - population exposure - Best Scholar Award 

University of Naples Parthenope - Italy

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Assoc Prof Dr. Angelo Riccio embarked on his academic journey with a fervent passion for environmental science, evident from his early academic pursuits. His academic trajectory commenced with a focus on fundamental scientific principles, laying a robust foundation for his future research endeavors. Through dedicated study and research, he cultivated a deep understanding of atmospheric dynamics, air quality, and environmental modeling.

Professional Endeavors

Transitioning from academia to professional endeavors, Angelo Riccio's commitment to advancing environmental science remained unwavering. His tenure at Parthenope University Naples provided him with a platform to merge theoretical knowledge with practical applications. Through interdisciplinary collaborations and innovative methodologies, he delved into diverse facets of environmental research, ranging from air pollution characterization to ecosystem modeling.

Contributions and Research Focus

Assoc Prof Dr. Riccio's contributions to the field of environmental science are multifaceted and profound. His research focus spans a wide array of topics, including atmospheric chemistry, aerosol dynamics, and climate modeling. By employing state-of-the-art techniques and conducting comprehensive studies, he elucidated the intricate interactions between natural and anthropogenic processes shaping our environment. His investigations into air quality regulation, source apportionment, and pollutant transport dynamics have garnered widespread recognition for their scientific rigor and societal relevance.

Accolades and Recognition

Assoc Prof Dr. Angelo Riccio's exemplary contributions have earned him acclaim within the scientific community. His prolific publication record in reputable journals such as Science of the Total Environment, Atmospheric Pollution Research, and Ecological Modelling attests to the significance of his research findings. Moreover, his work has been cited extensively, underscoring its impact and influence on the broader scientific discourse. Riccio's dedication to excellence has been acknowledged through prestigious accolades and awards, reaffirming his status as a trailblazer in environmental research.

Impact and Influence

Assoc Prof Dr. Riccio's research legacy extends beyond mere academic accolades, manifesting in tangible societal impact and influence. By shedding light on pressing environmental issues such as air pollution and climate change, he has empowered policymakers, stakeholders, and the public with invaluable insights for informed decision-making. His efforts towards developing innovative methodologies for environmental monitoring and assessment have catalyzed advancements in environmental management practices, fostering sustainability and resilience in urban and peri-urban areas.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As Angelo Riccio's illustrious career continues to evolve, his legacy as a visionary environmental scientist is already firmly established. His pioneering research has paved the way for future generations of scholars to build upon, inspiring continued exploration and innovation in environmental science. Looking ahead, Riccio remains committed to addressing emerging environmental challenges and driving positive change through his research endeavors. With a steadfast dedication to scientific excellence and a fervent commitment to environmental stewardship, Angelo Riccio's impact will resonate for years to come.

Citations

A total of 1980 citations for his publications, demonstrating the impact and recognition of her research within the academic community.

Yao-Tai Li – Medical Sociology Award – Best Researcher 

Dr. Yao-Tai Li - Medical Sociology Award - Best Researcher 

University of New South Wales - Australia

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Yao-Tai Li's academic journey began with a Bachelor's degree in Political Science from National Taiwan University in Taipei, Taiwan. This foundational education laid the groundwork for further exploration in social sciences. He then pursued a Master's degree in Political Science, delving deeper into the complexities of political structures and systems. Following this, Li continued his academic pursuit by obtaining a Master's degree in Sociology from the University of California, San Diego (UCSD), where he underwent rigorous training in sociological theories and methodologies. This multidisciplinary background equipped him with a diverse skill set essential for his future research endeavors.

Li's academic trajectory culminated in a Ph.D. in Sociology from UCSD, where he conducted groundbreaking research on the formation and decline of Overseas Chinese identity in Australia. His dissertation, titled "Making and Unmaking Pan-ethnicity," showcased his commitment to understanding complex social phenomena through a sociological lens. This early academic pursuit laid the foundation for his subsequent research interests and contributions to the field of sociology.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Yao-Tai Li's professional journey is characterized by a series of academic appointments and visiting positions at prestigious institutions worldwide. He began his career as an Assistant Professor of Sociology at Hong Kong Baptist University, where he made significant contributions to the field through his research and teaching. Li's expertise in race and ethnicity, identity, migration, and contentious politics garnered recognition, leading to his appointment as a Lecturer and subsequently as a Senior Lecturer at the University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia.

Throughout his career, Li has demonstrated a strong commitment to academic excellence, evidenced by his extensive publication record in peer-reviewed journals and his active engagement in scholarly activities. His collaborative efforts with scholars from diverse backgrounds have enriched the academic discourse, contributing to the advancement of sociological knowledge.

Contributions and Research Focus On Medical Sociology Award

Dr. Li's research agenda encompasses a wide range of topics, including race and ethnicity, identity formation, migration patterns, and social movements. His seminal work on the Hong Kong protests, Taiwanese migration experiences, and the impact of COVID-19 on global societies has received widespread acclaim within the academic community. Li's interdisciplinary approach to research, drawing insights from sociology, political science, and cultural studies, has led to innovative perspectives on complex social phenomena.

His commitment to empirical rigor and theoretical innovation has positioned him as a leading scholar in the field of sociology. Li's research not only sheds light on pressing social issues but also offers practical insights for policymakers and practitioners seeking to address contemporary challenges.

Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Yao-Tai Li's contributions to the field of sociology have been recognized through numerous awards and accolades. He has received prestigious honors such as the A. Noam Chomsky Rising Star Emerging Scholar Award, Faculty Early Career Teaching Award, and Dissertation Writing Award, among others. Li's research has been featured in top-tier academic journals, and he has received accolades for his presentations at international conferences.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Li's research has made a significant impact on academic scholarship and public discourse. His work on identity politics, social movements, and migration dynamics has informed policymakers, educators, and civil society actors worldwide. By bridging the gap between theory and practice, Li has facilitated meaningful dialogue on pressing social issues, contributing to a more nuanced understanding of contemporary society.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Yao-Tai Li's legacy lies in his profound influence on the field of sociology and his dedication to advancing knowledge for the betterment of society. As he continues his academic journey, Li remains committed to rigorous scholarship, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the pursuit of social justice. His future contributions are poised to shape the trajectory of sociological inquiry, inspiring future generations of scholars to engage critically with the complexities of the modern world.

Citations

  • Citations   292
  • h-index       10
  • i10-index    11

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