In 2024, I was one of 15 fellows selected for The Fred Hollows Foundation’s Women in Health Leadership – Mekong Region programme. Delivered by The Foundation and the Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, the programme is delivering on a clear and urgent need to invest in women health leaders.
Research from The World Health Organization and Women in Global Health shows that despite occupying 70% of the health workforce globally, women account for just 25% of the influential decision-making positions.
When I came to Australia to participate in a women’s leadership programme funded by The Fred Hollows Foundation and the Australian Government, what I learned changed my life – first at home, and then at work.
Before the programme, I believed that working harder meant being more valuable. I worked late almost every day, said yes to everything, and measured my success by how busy I was. But at home, things were different.
My husband is a doctor at an international hospital. He earns a high income compared with me. He wanted me to slow down and focus more on our family. He did not understand why I wanted to do a PhD, or why I pushed myself so much.
There were also many moments when I wanted to quit my PhD. I felt I had to choose between my dream and my family.
During the women’s leadership program, I learned that leadership starts with self-leadership. If I cannot manage my emotions, I cannot lead others. If I cannot balance my priorities, I cannot build sustainable impact.
After the programme, I learned to set boundaries, communicate calmly, and to listen to my husband’s fears instead of fighting to win. Slowly, trust grew again.
When I became clearer at home, I became stronger at work.
One of the most meaningful opportunities in my career was working with The Fred Hollows Foundation. Through my work, I had the opportunity to collaborate closely with The Foundation’s team and learn from their vision.
From The Foundation, I learned how important it was to combine compassion with professionalism. Development work is not only about a good heart. It is also about good systems, good management, and strong collaboration.
Through this work, I saw how international partnership, local leadership, and scientific research can come together to create real change.
There were many nights I wanted to give up. But today, I have completed almost all the requirements within three years. For me, this PhD is not just a degree. It represents resilience, negotiation at home and growth as a leader.
After each conference presentation or policy report, I often receive strong appreciation and positive feedback. More importantly, I can connect with many senior leaders, which creates valuable professional networks and future collaboration opportunities. As I approach the final stage of my PhD, many people ask me: “What is next?”
I am grateful that new opportunities have already opened. Within my own workplace, many female colleagues see my journey and gain confidence. They see that it is possible to be professionally competent, to pursue academic excellence, and still build a supportive and happy family.
For me, leadership is no longer only about personal ambition. It is about creating visible examples, opening doors for others, and proving that women can lead with both strength and balance.
