Backman-Levy selected for global health leadership program

Jessica Backman-Levy, an associate professor of practice at the Brown School, has been selected to participate in a yearlong program aimed at advancing women into senior leadership positions in global health.

Backman-Levy will join WomenLift Health’s sixth North America Cohort of the Leadership Journey. This fully-funded, 12-month leadership initiative equips mid-career women with mentorship, coaching, and leadership development tools needed to enhance their impact in the global health sector. The program provides participants access to a diverse network of peers, mentors, and experts while helping them refine their leadership presence and advocacy strategies.

“I’m honored to have been selected for this incredible opportunity to learn from and collaborate with a remarkable cohort of women who are driving change in global health,” Backman-Levy said. “I look forward to strengthening my leadership skills and learning new strategies to collectively build more equitable and inclusive health systems worldwide.”

Despite making up approximately 70% of the global health workforce, women hold only 25% of senior leadership positions, according to Women in Global Health. Additionally, about 70% of global health organizations are led by men, and 80% of board chairs are male.

Backman-Levy’s research focuses on the intersection of gender, poverty, and global maternal and child health. Her work aims to develop culturally responsive interventions that promote gender equality and improve reproductive health and development outcomes.

Founded in 2019, WomenLift Health is dedicated to increasing women’s power and influence in global health leadership and driving systemic change in gender equity. The organization has established hubs in North America, South America, South Asia, East Africa, and Southern Africa, with plans for further expansion. WomenLift Health also collaborates with health institutions to advance gender equity in leadership and to foster global dialogue on the role of women in shaping health policies and systems.