Deb Lester

Background

About Deb Lester

I have spent 30 years working in health, education and social services worldwide, including working and living in the Global South, Caribbean and Australia. I have worked with International Non-Governmental Organizations from inception to executive leadership, including CEO. In Public/ Global Health, I have spent many years working with frontline staff in strengthening health, social and education systems, working in both community & facility settings, partnering with government, universities & likeminded partners, unified in a common goal. In working with women from around the globe,a gender transformative approach has been at the core. I believe in integrated program development & know firsthand that there are many pieces to the puzzle to bring a program to scale & sustainability, the importance of change management principles being one. I have clinical health credentials, experience building & leading teams, recognize the power of partnerships to move toward the vision of health program advancement for both medical non-governmental organizations and medical organizations. I have been fortunate to work & understand current health care trends, challenges & treatment approaches around the globe. I am honoured to be inducted into the 2020 Canadian Women Leaders in Global Health and to serve as the Co-Chair for Women in Global Health Canada.