Curtin medical student awarded prestigious Global Voices Scholarship

A Curtin University medical student has been awarded a prestigious Global Voices World Health Assembly (WHA) Scholarship, which provides opportunities for young leaders to make a difference on global healthcare issues.

Cleo Wee, who is studying a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery at Curtin, will complete a Policy Fellowship and attend the World Health Assembly Conference in Geneva, Switzerland, as part of the scholarship, alongside other influential healthcare leaders and policy makers from around the world.

Curtin University Vice-Chancellor Professor Harlene Hayne congratulated Ms Wee on receiving the prestigious scholarship.

“This scholarship provides a fantastic opportunity for Curtin students to gain real-world experience in their area of study, while also connecting them with national and international leaders in the healthcare sector,” Professor Hayne said.

“Ms Wee will gain invaluable skills and experience as she represents Curtin on the global stage at this important international health conference. We look forward to hearing about her work and proposed policies.”

Ms Wee said she has always had an interest in public health, from both a national and international perspective, and was excited to further explore that passion.

“I am honoured to be selected for this scholarship alongside other young leaders who also aspire to make national and global change. Through the Policy Fellowship, I aim to address the issue of domestic violence, particularly against women and children in rural communities,” Ms Wee said.

“Currently, one in three Australian women live in rural communities where there are additional barriers to receiving help for domestic violence such as geographical isolation and lack of services. I hope that my work in this space will help to break down some of these barriers and enforce positive change.

“I look forward to attending the WHA conference in Geneva, connecting with international stakeholders and experts who can provide important input and advice for my policy paper.”

Further information on the Global Voices WHA Scholarship and Conference can be found online here.