Daniel Mahadzir

Background

About Daniel Mahadzir

We don’t need more people who can give quick answers. We need more leaders who ask the right questions.” I am a clinical nutritionist, scientist, and innovation leader working at the intersection of food security, digital health, and planetary health with a passion for shaping systems that place human wellness and health equity at the center. My journey began in clinical nutrition and behavioral science, where my doctoral research, recognized by scholarships and three research prizes, focused on developing a peer support program for adults with metabolic syndrome, emphasizing nutrition and sustainable lifestyle change. In my postdoc years, I have designed and led four clinical trials across three major healthcare clusters in Singapore, testing digital health technologies, dietary supplements, and longevity interventions. These experiences have refined my skills in scientific rigor, cross-sector collaboration, and the realities of scaling health solutions in complex systems. Currently, I serve as an Innovation Fellow at the SingHealth Duke-NUS Global Health Institute, the leading global health research institute in Asia, housed within one of the world’s top 10 medical universities. Here, I lead initiatives that connect climate science, public health, and systems innovation — particularly across Asia-Pacific. My work also extends beyond academia. In Adeante, I support investments in agri-agrotechnology where I’ve founded two startups, raised $1.5 million in seed capital, and generated $500K in stable annual recurring revenue for four consecutive years. I thrive at the intersection of science and entrepreneurship — or as I like to say, “where white coats meet boardrooms.” What drives me most, however, is my belief that leadership is about listening to understand — not rushing to respond. This principle has guided my efforts in climate advocacy and youth empowerment, where I co-founded the U-INSPIRE Alliance, mobilizing over youth and young professionals across 16 countries to build resilience to climate disasters. This work led to global appointments as: Governance Chair, Youth UNESCO Climate Action Network Global Shaper, World Economic Forum Climate Reality Leader, trained by Al Gore Across every role — whether I’m in a lab, a boardroom, or a rural community — I strive to be a systems thinker who connects data with empathy, innovation with purpose, and global strategy with local voices. Let's connect if you're working on bold ideas in health, climate, longevity, or innovation that demand not just answers — but better questions.