"Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity." - World Health Organization (WHO)
Book I: This first volume traces my journey from a young student in Uganda and Kenya to becoming a physician, with experiences spanning South Africa, Namibia, New Zealand, Australia, and finally Canada. It explores my formative training years, beginning with school, advancing through medical school, and culminating in my journey to becoming a physician. Along the way, I was immersed in multiracial environments and diverse social settings, experiences that prepared me for working with communities across different cultures and regions of the world. These encounters not only broadened my understanding of people but also deepened my appreciation of health in its totality-how it extends beyond the physical to encompass social, cultural, and systemic dimensions. Through both lived and professional experiences, I came face-to-face with discrimination, health inequities, and the many challenges embedded within health systems. These formative encounters became turning points that awakened my global perspective, shaping my professional identity and reinforcing my lifelong commitment to advancing equity in healthcare. The story culminates at a pivotal moment in history-the emergence of COVID-19, a global threat that would challenge health systems worldwide and redefine the course of my career.
Njenga, Jennifer: - Dr. Jennifer Njenga is an award-winning global health leader, physician, and advocate for health equity with over 24 years of experience across Africa, Oceania, and North America. Her work connects clinical practice, public health innovation, and digital transformation to advance equitable healthcare for marginalized communities.In 2022, she received Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee Medal for her contributions to healthcare in Alberta and was appointed Co-Chair of Alberta's Modernizing Primary Health Care System (MAPS) International Panel by former Health Minister Jason Copping. That same year, she also received the Rosalind Smith Professional Award from the National Black Coalition of Canada, Edmonton Chapter.Dr. Njenga is the Founder and CEO of BriJen, a digital-first health equity movement, and leads Engage Global Health (EGH), a public health organization supporting the UN SDGs through initiatives in primary care, Indigenous health, adolescent health, and maternal and child health. Her leadership spans multiple countries, including New Zealand, South Africa, Namibia, and Uganda, where she has contributed to health system strengthening, clinical education, and community empowerment.Dr. Njenga has held senior leadership roles in Alberta's health care system and mentors health professionals globally. A dedicated community builder, she serves as Chair of the Board for HIV Edmonton and as a Board Director for the Canadian Public Health Association. She has supported medical education as a reviewer and admissions panel member at the University of Alberta.She is part of the Women's Health leadership team within the Global Healthcare Leaders Foundation, a network of Harvard Medical School alumni.In 2025, she was named Woman of the Year at the When African Women Talk Legacy Awards. Dr. Njenga collaborates widely with organizations, including Africa Centre, Black Canadian Women in Action, the Alberta Immigrant Women and Children Centre, and partners across the U.S.Dr. Njenga holds an MBChB from South Africa, an MPH from New Zealand, a DrPH from Australia, and a Certificate in Global Health Leadership from Harvard Medical School.
