The Fleming Initiative and Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, are proud to announce the winners of the inaugural Trailblazers in Antimicrobial Resistance programme, a global initiative recognising exceptional women who are inspiring and leading action against antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
AMR occurs when disease-causing microbes can resist the effects of medicines, such as antibiotics, designed to kill them. This growing global problem is accelerated by the inappropriate use (overuse, underuse, and misuse) of antimicrobials in humans and animals. Despite its scale, recent reports have estimated that there are only 3000 researchers actively working on AMR – significantly fewer than in other health fields, including HIV/AIDS and cancer.
The Trailblazers in AMR programme attracted submissions from around the world, spanning a wide range of sectors and disciplines that comprise the One Health approach (human, animal, and environmental health). Entries were reviewed by a panel of world-renowned organisations with a longstanding commitment to advancing the fight against AMR, including Access to Medicine Foundation, AMR Insights BV, CARB-X, LifeArc, One Health Trust, The Trinity Challenge, WHO Collaborating Centre for Antimicrobial Resistance at the Doherty Institute, and UN Foundation.
Following a rigorous multi-round selection process, eight Trailblazers have been selected:
- Regina Mariam N. Kamoga, Uganda
- Randa Bazzi, Jordan
- Misbah Khan, United Kingdom
- Evelyn Wesangula, Kenya
- Gabriella Ak, Papua New Guinea
- Debra Goff, United States
- Sweety Suman Jha, India
- Nour Shamas, Saudi Arabia
By spotlighting outstanding AMR work across science, policy, engagement, and the arts, the programme not only celebrates individual achievements but also seeks to catalyse broader support and create new opportunities for the female trailblazers to expand the reach and impact of their work.
With its global outlook, the initiative provides a platform to showcase pioneering contributions from under-represented sectors and regions, helping to build a more inclusive and collaborative AMR community.
Lord Ara Darzi, Executive Chair of the Fleming Initiative, said: “It is wonderful to see the stellar contributions of women in antimicrobial resistance. All those who entered were worthy of the accolade, and I hope this will act as a stepping stone for greater recognition of their efforts.
“Congratulations to the winners. With an extremely high-calibre of entrants, this is a truly impressive achievement.”
Professor Brett Sutton, CSIRO’s Health and Biosecurity Research Director, said the initiative is a powerful reminder of the impact of inclusive leadership in global health.
“The Trailblazers in AMR programme shines a light on the remarkable work being done, often behind the scenes, by women driving progress in the fight against antimicrobial resistance.”
Professor Dame Sally Davies, the UK Special Envoy on AMR and the patron of the inaugural Female Trailblazers in AMR initiative, said: “I am inspired by the leadership of women all across the world who are tackling AMR with their expertise, innovation and dedication.
“By celebrating and showcasing their efforts, I hope the next generation is inspired to take action against AMR.”
The achievements of the Trailblazers will be showcased in a dedicated section of the Fleming Initiative website, featuring in-depth profiles that highlight their diverse expertise and contributions to minimising the impact of AMR. The profiles will give Trailblazers a chance to connect with fellow experts, potential collaborators, and a global audience, with the upcoming AMR 2026 Summit serving as a further engagement opportunity.
The Fleming Initiative and CSIRO extend their sincere thanks to all applicants. The volume and quality of submissions are a testament to the remarkable work being undertaken by women in AMR globally. We hope those who were not selected will continue their vital efforts in this field.
This media release was first published by Fleming Initiative.