More than an internship: Emma’s story of growth at WOAH in Nairobi

Emma Wijers’ path to WOAH is as inspiring as it is international. With Belgian, Dutch, and Italian heritage, Emma developed an early interest in connecting scientific knowledge with real-world impact. When the 23-year-old Emma boarded a plane to Nairobi, she was carrying more than just her suitcase. She brought with her a passion for infectious diseases, a global mindset shaped by her Erasmus Mundus studies, and a determination to turn theory into practice.

Eager to build on this passion, she applied to the prestigious Erasmus Mundus Master’s in Infectious Diseases and One Health — a truly cross-disciplinary programme that allowed her to study at three institutions across France, Spain, and Germany, alongside classmates from 18 nationalities and backgrounds ranging from medicine and veterinary science to microbiology.

Why WOAH in Africa?

When it came time to select a thesis and internship placement, Emma sought out an opportunity that aligned with her growing passion for high-consequence pathogens, emergency preparedness, and the science-policy interface. That’s when she discovered WOAH’s Biological Threats Reduction (FIRABioT) Project at the Sub-Regional Representation for Eastern Africa. The Project’s focus on strengthening resilience against high-consequence pathogens, improving laboratory sustainability, veterinary legislation, and emergency management aligned perfectly with her academic and personal interests.

“I wanted to work on something that combined policy with science, and Africa was the place I felt I could contribute the most,” she explains. “The FIRABioT project stood out to me as a way to help build capacity and preparedness in a meaningful way.”

After nearly a decade without an intern, the WOAH Sub-Regional Representation for Eastern Africa opened its doors this year to a young professional bursting with passion, curiosity, and a One Health mindset. Over six months as an intern at the WOAH Sub-Regional Representation for Eastern Africa, Emma discovered what it means to work at the intersection of science, policy, and people — proving that youth have an important role to play in shaping the future of animal health and One Health.

Revitalising WOAH’s internship spirit

Emma’s internship marks the first at WOAH’s Nairobi office since 2017 — a refreshing reminder of the power of involving young people in our mission. Her energy, ideas, and determination have shown just how much young professionals can contribute to advancing animal health and One Health principles in the region.

“We as youth should not underestimate our knowledge,” Emma reflects. “We bring fresh ideas and energy to take our future into our own hands.”

Since her arrival in Nairobi, Emma has worked under the supervision of Ian Peter Busuulwa, supporting the FIRABioT Project through a variety of impactful tasks — from writing concept notes, reports, and high-level briefing points to facilitating workshops across Kenya, the Republic of Congo, Malawi, and Zimbabwe.

Her work was not just about research but also about connecting with Veterinary Services, helping them improve contingency plans and emergency preparedness. Along the way, she learned the importance of diplomacy in international work, and how to balance perfectionism with a healthy work-life rhythm — lessons she’ll carry into her career.

On the future, Emma encourages other young people like herself, to dare take chances on themselves and to never underestimate their own capacity and how far they can go, all while still listening to the wisdom from older and more experienced people.

As we closed out the interview, Emma sends her special thanks to her supervisor Ian Peter, who has been instrumental in mentoring her during her internship but also her thesis development. She extended her deepest gratitude to the WOAH Nairobi office who made her feel at home. Emma shared a collection of photos from her time, and the memories she made.

At WOAH Nairobi office, on behalf of all the colleagues and particularly the ‘team staffroom” we truly wish her the very best and appreciate the energy and fun that she brought to the office.

Emma’s presence has been more than just an academic requirement — it’s been a meaningful contribution to the WOAH Nairobi and the entire Africa team’s work, and a reminder of how valuable youth engagement is to our mission. As we look toward the future, we hope her story will inspire others to follow in her footsteps.

This interview was conducted and compiled by Lyne Iyadi – Regional WOAH Communications Officer.