Dr. Zahra Hoodbhoy, Associate Professor of Paediatrics and Child Health at Aga Khan University (AKU), has been nominated for the Goalkeepers Awards and Champions by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation for her innovative contributions to the health sector. Hoodbhoy, a physician trained at AKU in Karachi, has been involved in public health research for nearly a decade. Her extensive experience includes implementing hospital and community-based projects, designing and conducting research studies, and collaborating with local and international researchers, resulting in numerous peer-reviewed publications.
Goalkeepers, an initiative by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, annually recognises individuals who are making significant strides towards achieving the Global Goals by 2030. This year, Goalkeepers will honor 10 exceptional Champions, including experts, innovators, advocates, and leaders from around the world, with Hoodbhoy being one of the notable nominees from Pakistan.
In low-resource settings, Hoodbhoy has been working on innovative solutions for maternal and child health, utilizing artificial intelligence tools and next-generation prenatal vitamins. Her research interventions involve public health strategies enhanced with AI tools, which empower community workers to better support expectant mothers before and after delivery.
One of Hoodbhoy’s significant projects includes a planned clinical trial of the next-generation multiple micronutrient supplement (MMS+) at her institution, as noted by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. This trial aims to improve pregnancy outcomes for mothers facing food insecurity, malnutrition, and anemia, addressing critical health challenges in vulnerable populations.
Throughout her professional journey, Hoodbhoy has observed that pregnancy-related research often overlooked women’s health, considering them merely as carriers for their babies. Her approach challenges this systemic medical discrimination by prioritizing mothers’ well-being, ensuring they receive the necessary care throughout their pregnancy journey and beyond.
Dr. Zahra Hoodbhoy, photographed alongside Bill Gates and other Goalkeepers Champions nominees, continues to make remarkable contributions to maternal and child health through her innovative and compassionate approach to public health.
