Alumni Profile

Yasmin Dias-Guichot

ydiasguichot@gmail.com

Program: MPH
Graduation Year: 2014
Employer: World Economic Forum
Job Title: Lead, Health Systems Transformation, World Economic Forum

Yasmin Dias-Guichot serves as Lead of Healthcare Systems Transformation at the World Economic Forum’s headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. She practices corporate social responsibility, partnership building and management with a focus on health information strengthening, healthcare systems resilience, and value-based healthcare.

Previously, Yasmin was an Associate Director at High Lantern Group, a boutique consultancy operating at the intersection of business strategy, policy analysis, public affairs, and communications. She has managed and consulted on policy projects providing strategic planning and communications engaging with cross-sectoral stakeholders. Yasmin also has experience working in health philanthropy and academia.

She has earned two masters, the first in Biomedical Research from the University of Maastricht in the Netherlands and the second in Public Health from the University of Miami along with an undergraduate degree in Biology from the University of West Florida. She is bilingual in English and Spanish with working proficiency in French.

• What motivated you to study public health?

  My passion for improving the well-being of communities and addressing global health challenges motivated me to study Public Health. I wanted to contribute to the development of effective health policies and programs that could positively impact people's lives on a large scale.

• Why did you choose the University of Miami for your public health degree?

  The University of Miami’s Public Health program with experience faculty in various areas of health policy were a big draw to the program. Its location also allowed me to gain first-hand experience in diverse public health issues, given the city's unique population and health challenges.

• Describe your career path:

  After completing my Public Health degree, I stayed in academia and helped support the MD/MPH program at the U – it’s here that I learned how education can have a long-term positive impact on the culture and implementation of public health. Next, I joined the philanthropic ecosystem at the Health Foundation of South Florida learning how to implement policy, system and environmental changes through both grassroots initiatives and policy changes at institutional levels. I then transitioned into consulting operating at the intersection of business strategy, policy analysis, public affairs, and communications. Here I worked on projects related to health systems strengthening and communications. These experiences eventually led me to my current role at the World Economic Forum. I lead cross-sectoral coalitions and initiatives focused on transforming and shaping healthcare systems aimed at improving health outcomes, access, and efficiency at the international level.

• How did you obtain your current position?

  Networking and maintaining strong connections within the health policy community played a crucial role in obtaining my current position. I attended conferences and events related to global health, where I had the opportunity to engage with professionals from various sectors, including academia, government, and international organizations. Through these connections, I learned about the opening at the World Economic Forum and applied for the position.

• How did your degree prepare you for your current position?

  My Public Health degree provided me with a solid foundation in health policy analysis, epidemiology, health economics, and global health issues. The coursework and research projects allowed me to develop critical thinking skills and a deep understanding of the complexities in the health sector. This knowledge has been instrumental in analysing health-related challenges and developing system level strategies.

• What is your favorite part of your job?

  My favorite part of my job is the opportunity to collaborate with experts and policymakers from around the world. Working at the World Economic Forum allows me to be part of a diverse and dynamic team, where we can collectively address some of the most pressing health issues facing our global community.

• What are your long-term career plans/goals?

  In the long term, I aspire to take on leadership roles in health policy and contribute to the development of innovative and sustainable solutions to global health challenges. I aim to continue advocating for equitable access to healthcare and fostering collaboration between different stakeholders to improve health outcomes worldwide.

• What advice do you have for someone interested in your career path?

  For someone interested in pursuing a career in health policy and working at international organizations like the World Economic Forum, I would recommend building a strong educational background in Public Health or a related field. Engage in internships, volunteer opportunities, or research projects to gain practical experience in health policy. Networking is crucial, so attend conferences, seminars, and workshops to meet professionals in the field. Stay updated on current health issues and global health trends. Lastly, be persistent and passionate in your pursuit of making a positive impact on global health and well-being.