Kennedy Mulungu reflect on the African STARS Fellowship

During the first weeks, I was deeply inspired by Prof Tulio de Oliveira’s powerful opening remarks, which emphasised that this programme is about nurturing future African leaders who will innovate locally.

Meeting my fellow African STARS has also been a highlight, I have connected with brilliant minds from across the continent, learning about their ambitions and experiences.

The training sessions on leadership and communication helped me gain deeper selfawareness and crucial skills for influencing and engaging the public in science. I realised the pressing health challenges we face in Malawi, and this fellowship is equipping me to address them through innovation in diagnostics and vaccines.

Networking has been invaluable; I’ve engaged with peers tackling similar health issues, leading to exciting collaborative discussions. My advice to future fellows is to embrace this opportunity as a launchpad for impactful solutions that shape Africa’s future.