2022-2024 Board of Directors and President-elect candidates' profiles

People

Candidates for the UICC Board of Directors

Listed alphabetically by last name – click on name for full profile and video message when available
Names in orange are candidates who were successfully elected to the Board of Directors 2022-2024.

The information contained in each of the candidates' profile has been provided by the candidates themselves, and it is intended exclusively for the UICC members voting at the elections for the UICC Board of Directors and President-elect. UICC's role is limited to providing the platform for the candidates to share their information and views. The views expressed by the candidates are not those of UICC.  Any use, disclosure or unauthorised reproduction of this information is prohibited. 

Matti Aapro
Immediate Past-President
European Cancer Organisation

Collonge–Bellerive, Switzerland

Why would you like to be on the UICC Board of Directors?

Dear UICC Member,

It is a great honour to be among the candidates to UICC’s Board of Directors. Here some reasons why I asking for your vote.

I believe I can bring many skills and international experience to the UICC Board of Directors where all together we can direct the Organisation along the road traced by the General Assembly. UICC’s ambition is that by 2035, cancer will be a central consideration in all national health plans and the resulting increased investment in prevention, early detection, treatment and care will result in a lowering of cancer incidence and mortality, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. This is a goal that, step by step, can be achieved. Throughout the world it is now recognised that cancer can be often prevented, detected early, and when needed treated with remarkable skills from surgeons, radiation oncologists and medical oncologists, along with the nurses and many other experts. The impact of the disease on the patients can and must be alleviated, not only during but after treatment, in medical and social terms. I have believed in these facts and will describe in the second part what experience I can bring to the Board of Directors of UICC. To become a member of this Organisation’s leadership, which I know since the Geneva 2008 Congress quite well, is for me a natural desire, as I embrace its vision and trust you will acknowledge the required capability.

What makes you a good candidate for the UICC Board of Directors?

Born in Brazil to Finnish parents, raised there and in Switzerland, married to an Italian physician, a practising oncologist in Italy and Switzerland, I have been all my life an enthusiastic internationalist, proud to have developed a pan-national network of friends and colleagues in oncology, all sharing a common mission to do the very best we can for our patients regardless of where they, or who they are.

I have been pleased to dedicate myself to a broad range of international oncology collaborations including as:

  • Supporting UICC for its Geneva 2008 and Shenzhen 2010 Congresses as a member of the Congress team, leading the Geneva one’s organisation
  • Coordinating the activities of European School of Oncology (ESO) in Arab speaking countries and Latin America
  • a founding leader of the Sharing Progress in Cancer Care (SPCC ) association, a not for profit entity dedicated to education along all steps of the cancer pathway, from prevention to all types of care including organisation of services, based in Bellinzona, Switzerland
  • a Board Member of the International Society for Geriatric Oncology (SIOG )
  • past-President of the Multinational Association for Supportive Care in Cancer (MASCC )
  • a past Board Member of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) & of the European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO)

With this background I believe I can represent the spirit of borderless cooperation that typifies UICC.

Video message

Stella Aguinaga Bialous
Professor
University of California, San Francisco

San Francisco, United States of America

Why would you like to be on the UICC Board of Directors?

I have a background in nursing and in public health, including global health. For over 25 years I have been involved with UICC, starting in 1996 with UICC’s Nursing Education Project, followed by engagement in various tobacco control initiatives, a project to build capacity of nurses in Latin America to engage in cervical cancer screening, and in my role as President of ISNCC. I hope to be an additional voice for nurses, the largest group of health care professionals, whose engagement in cancer care and control is pivotal to reaching UICC, WHO and SDG cancer targets. UICC’s mission will continue to grow in significance as the need to address the global cancer incidence becomes ever more urgent. As a Board member I will contribute to expanding the reach of UICC, especially to low- and middle-income countries, to nursing and other health groups, and in support of countries’ integration of cancer care, including tobacco control, into primary care standards of practice, contributing to the development and implementation of evidence-based policies. If elected, I would like to engage with UICC’s advocacy initiatives and support tobacco control and cervical cancer elimination priorities. I have decades of experience working with partners and colleagues across the globe, and I would support further engagement of UICC and the Board with groups or countries that could strengthen their representation in UICC’s activities, strengthening UICC’s role as a key stakeholder in cancer control.

What makes you a good candidate for the UICC Board of Directors?

Having worked in Brazil, the United States, and globally, I have a good understanding of cancer care challenges in a wide range of resource levels. As a consultant to the WHO and other international agencies, I worked with governments and non-governmental organizations in developing and implementing tobacco control plans and strategies, in the context of the NCD targets and the SDG. In over 30 years of involvement with the International Society of Nurses in Cancer Care I pursued strengthening nursing capacity to engage in cancer care and control, implement best practices and leadership, and importantly, integrate tobacco control into cancer care. Through the development and expansion of the Center of Excellence for Nurses in Tobacco Control I worked with nurses from 11 countries, engaging thousands of nurses and with significant capacity building results. Currently I am part of UCSF’s Global Cancer Program Steering Committee and continue to develop research to address disparities in access to cancer care through equity-based policies. I am also engaged in addressing tobacco use among people living with HIV. As, now, a chronic condition, the intersection between HIV, tobacco, and cancer is an emerging area for research, practice, and policy. I have a proven ability of achieving results by working collaboratively across many countries. I work with different groups, cultures and levels of political commitment and have the skills and experience to contribute to UICC’s goals.

Video message

Gamal Amira
Professor of Surgical Oncology | Immediate President of the EGSSO | President of MISR Cancer Center
NCI Cairo University, Fakkous Center for Cancer and Allied Diseases and MISR Cancer Center

Cairo, Egypt

Why would you like to be on the UICC Board of Directors?

I am a Life Member of the UICC. I would develop planning strategies to nurture and grow the coming generations of leaders against cancer to be able to address new inter- and cross-disciplinary malpractices, disparities of care and health inequalities after the COVID 19 pandemic. Having over 30 years of experience as a local initiative, I have assisted in establishing eight specialized cancer centers to serve remote districts, education and training programs, and funding for research and health informatics. I received my degrees from Cairo University, while being trained in Japan, the US and Europe. I specialize in cancer surgery, achieving a record of complex procedures that have raised my skills and reputation to the point of becoming a regional reference for treatment options and decisions. I am a professor of surgical oncology, while also being a part of faculty of the majority of international committees and societies concerned with cancer management and planning. I am a senior member of the governing council of INCTR Egypt and an experienced cancer and research leader for National Cancer Control Plans. I currently serve on the Committee of Regional Cancer and Surgical Societies as the MENA Region representative for SSO, ESSO, ABC Global Alliance and as a board member of national societies. I am a leader in the presidential initiative to combat the cancer treatment waiting lists, a member of the Egyptian Supreme Council of Higher Education, President of MISR Cancer Center

What makes you a good candidate for the UICC Board of Directors?

I am confident that I will be able to implement effective plans from the successful experiences we’ve had with the in our Egyptian healthcare system. Plans will be effectively selected to be transferred and adopted by multiple premature systems. My ability to create and engage a community is my influential tool to bring stakeholders and government bodies to the table of cancer planning. Our recent efforts alongside the presidential initiatives in cancer screening and NCD treatments impressed the whole region and the international leaders, as we’ve optimized the African healthcare systems and application. I would like to join the Board as a way to give back. I provided excellent opportunities to impact the change and support of local organizations working towards the cancer control and prevention that we are passionate about through my roles in nonprofit boards. It is a unique rewarding experience, which I would like to bring to the UICC community.

As a representative of Egypt, I am more aware of what is going on in our world these days after the COVID 19 pandemic thanks to advances in the media and sharing technology and coming from a nation that often times had to adapt to minimal resources during the pandemic. As a UICC leader, I care about cancer care, control, prevention, equality, equity and NCDs. I am choosing to shape the future by conducting our vision and expanding our initiative to regional and international level and as a board member, this will be my pivotal role

Video message

Ulrika Årehed Kågström
Secretary General
Cancerfonden/Swedish Cancer Society

Stockholm, Sweden

Please note that Ulrika Årehed Kågström is also a candidate for the position of President-elect

Why would you like to be on the UICC Board of Directors?

For the last four years, I have served on the UICC Board of Directors. I know firsthand that the UICC plays a unique role in the Global Cancer Community.

The world around us is undergoing challenging and extraordinary times. Health care systems have been tested like never before. Many of us have lost loved ones. In order to reduce the global cancer burden we need resilient health care systems, as well as societies that enable us to live healthy lives.

The pandemic has widened and highlighted the inequities between countries and within, and the economic downturn seen in many countries is adding fuel to the fire. Unless we accelerate our work we risk a backlash in the global fight against cancer.

I believe that the UICC can inspire more partners and decision-makers to facilitate the leap in the fight against cancer that is within our reach. With the technology and knowledge of today, the vision of defeating cancer does not have to be merely a dream. It should be a serious worldwide commitment.

UICC plays a unique role with its purpose “to unite and support the cancer community to reduce the global cancer burden, to promote greater equity, and to ensure that cancer control continues to be a priority in the world health and development agenda”.

We, together, can make it happen.

What makes you a good candidate for the UICC Board of Directors?

For more than 20 years I have devoted my efforts into strategic leadership and advocacy. I have lead large and complex organizations. Since 2016 I am the Secretary General of the Swedish Cancer Society and previously, I worked in the humanitarian sector as Secretary General of the Swedish Red Cross. Additionally, I have extensive experience in governance as chair and member of boards such as the Nordic Cancer Union. I have a deep understanding of governance responsibilities and the distinction between board and staff leadership.

I have served on the UICC Board of Directors since 2018. For the last two years I have served as Treasurer and chair of the Finance, Risk and Audit Committee and I have been actively involved in a number of other working groups. I have chaired the Knowledge, Advocacy and Policy Committee and during that time we set out five advocacy priority areas – NCCP’s (national cancer control plans), Cervical cancer, Tobacco control, AMR (antimicrobial resistance) and Equity.

I have been a member of the AMR task force, the ATOM coalition task force and I am now a member of the Strategy Review Task Force, the Governance Committee, the Congress and World Cancer Leaders' Summit Committee, the KAP Committee and the Advisory Board of the Solidarity Fund for Ukraine.

Video message

Eric Bouffet
Professor of Paediatrics
The Hospital for Sick Children

Toronto, Canada

Why would you like to be on the UICC Board of Directors?

Over the years, I have worked in as paediatric oncologist at the national and international level, gaining an international expertise via multiple, global collaborations (e.g. former president of the International Society of Paediatric Oncology, member of the Children Oncology Group steering committee, leader of various twinning programs with low- and middle-income countries, lead in charge of training of international oncologists, etc). I have now been a member of the Board of Director of UICC for 2 years, and I was able to measure the impact UICC can make worldwide. There is a need to advocate for the unique needs of children with cancers, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. However, there is also a critical need to educate children and make them aware of the impact of the prevention of non-communicable diseases.

As this first term is coming to an end, I would love to continue to bring my expertise and skills to support UICC’s objectives. I am in a unique position with close connections with the International Society of Paediatric Oncology, the Saint Jude Global Program, the WHO, Global Hope, GFAOP, POEM and many other groups that have the capacity to have a major impact on childhood cancer.

What makes you a good candidate for the UICC Board of Directors?

I have worked as paediatric oncologist since 1987. I have developed in Toronto a large paediatric neuro-oncology program that has gained a worldwide reputation in research and clinical care for children with brain tumours. As his program was expanding, I also paid a special attention to the care of children with brain tumours in low and middle-income countries and I have developed several successful twinning initiatives, first with Jordan, and then with several countries, including Pakistan, Morocco, Ukraine, Ethiopia, Egypt, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, Vietnam and Iran. I have learned a lot from these experiences and can continue to bring this knowledge to UICC.

Over the last 10 years, I became increasing involved in international activities through the International Society of Paediatric Oncology (SIOP) as president, through UICC and various international paediatric oncology networks. My experience and international connections with paediatric oncologists will continue to be an asset in this position.

Video message

Maira Caleffi
Volunteer President FEMAMA / Chief Breast Center Hospital Moinhos de Vento
FEMAMA / Hospital Moinhos de Vento

Porto Alegre, Brazil

Why would you like to be on the UICC Board of Directors?

As a Brazilian and Latin American leader in breast cancer control and global patient advocacy, I have chaired non-profit organisations and advisory boards in several European countries and U.S. in the past 20 years. I am a technical consultant for the Global Breast Cancer Initiative (WHO) and a chair of the executive committee of the Institute for Governance and Cancer Control. I will leverage my experience as President of FEMAMA, to further develop and enhance my leadership and governance skills to strengthen the UICC Board of Directors. I have been very active as a UICC member and as a past Board member such as a grant reviewer, capacity building development, and chairing regional meetings. I would focus on the development of the ATOM project and explore innovative ways to guarantee that prevention and control of cancer remain on the political agenda. I am astutely aware that increasing UICC membership should be a priority for all Board members. My career as a breast-dedicated surgeon for the last 40 years enables me to better understand and assist the needs of cancer patients and their families, regardless of their background, social status, or gender. I would like to be on the UICC Board to continue highlighting and advocating against inequity in cancer care with greater global impact. Persistence, purposeful connection, and the commitment to reducing deaths caused by cancer are strengths I can offer to the UICC community as part of the Board.

What makes you a good candidate for the UICC Board of Directors?

I am devoted to ensuring more patient centricity in LMICs furthering inclusion and establishing clear communication and transparency. I have been involved in innovative digital tools to address health literacy and cancer prevention that could help generate data and awareness. As a local leader for CCan in POA, I have developed important skills in negotiation and governance of multi-stakeholder teams to study solutions for difficult problems to improve quality access to sustainable healthcare systems.

Promoting a series of virtual seminars involving policymakers and professionals nationally and in Latin America together with patient advocates during the pandemic gave me an unprecedented opportunity to recommend policies that have been used by the Government. My mission in life as a medical doctor and advocate has always been to improve well-being of cancer patients through increased access to timely diagnosis and adequate treatment. Besides the strong UICC presence in many countries, there is a need to engage more global partners (from academia, private sector, cancer centers) together with stakeholders from LMICs to advance the idea that cancer should be a primary care issue promoting prevention and earlier detection to decrease the global cancer burden. My professional and personal life have been dedicated to prevention and control of cancer. It would be an honour for me to serve as a UICC Board member to further drive global change benefitting all cancer community.

Video message

Hana Chaar Choueib
General Manager
The Children's Cancer Center of Lebanon (CCCL)

Beirut, Lebanon

Why would you like to be on the UICC Board of Directors?

The primary reason and most important one of joining the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) Board of directors is to profoundly contribute to serving a great organization and its mission such as the UICC. Moreover, to continue in my efforts with the UICC board and staff to open up the conversation and encourage consideration among my peers in the region and globally to better the lives of hundreds of thousands of cancer patients globally and to prevent, eliminate and guarantee access to cancer treatments.

For the last 2 years, since joining the UICC Board of directors in 2020, though mostly hit by the pandemic and confined to virtual, it was surely, one of the most rewarding and enriching experience to be among the decision makers and such an advisory platform of this great strategic work and a learning curve from this different international perspective of cancer control.

Serving on the UICC board will allow me to continue witnessing the operation of this organization at a high level. It will give me the opportunity in partnership and collaboration of the rest of the board to ensure consistent alignment with the UICC mission and vision.

What makes you a good candidate for the UICC Board of Directors?

My persistence, dedication and commitments to combating the cancer situation in the region for 18 years as the CCCL general manager and recently, succeeding in surpassing, these times of consequent crises for the past 12 years in the region and Lebanon played a major role in ensuring that the center remains accomplishing its mission.

Despite the emerging of Covid-19 pandemic since 2020 and facing the cancer-related issues on a global level, with a network of esteemed professionals at the UICC and the world, reinforced my commitment to mitigate the anticipated challenges, particularly for the most vulnerable communities. Furthermore, to remain impacting the lives of people living with cancer, especially children, while ensuring access to quality healthcare & treatment for the near and far future.

My network of professional and civil societies will enable me to lead and influence others in the region and globally through all the successful means of communications, the UICC channels, and the organization of regular regional and international meetings.

Video message

Pak Yu, Patricia CHU YEUNG
Chairman
The Hong Kong Anti-Cancer Society

Hong Kong, Hong Kong S.A.R., China

Why would you like to be on the UICC Board of Directors?

Since my school days, I have been practicing the motto of "To serve not to be served". After joining the Social Welfare Department, I had undertaken social work and leadership programs for my professional development and widening my horizon as a leader, enabling me to contribute significantly in formulating policies and developing services for various target groups, regardless of gender, age, ability, or ethnic diversity. Upon my retirement, I have been appointed as Chairperson of the Equal Opportunity Commission and Associate Director of the HKU Family Institute and setting up of CIFA to further actualize my mission to serve.

Since 2012, I have served as the Chairman of the Hong Kong Anti-Cancer Society, putting into practice my belief in the Systems Theory, i.e.to see the cancer patient in the context of the family, with their plight subject to policies and provision of the services in the society. With my professional background, extensive experience, and international connection, I believe that I can contribute, through my participation in the UICC Board, to advocate for comprehensive cancer plans at local, regional, and global levels. I strongly believe that we at the UICC can play a very significant role to reduce the cancer burden, promoting greater equity, and ensuring that cancer control continues to be a high priority in the worldwide efforts to promote health that echoes the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development promulgated by the United Nations.

What makes you a good candidate for the UICC Board of Directors?

HKACS provides comprehensive services for cancer patients and their families. For equity, we have introduced the Medical Assistance Scheme and Charity Bed Program to assist underprivileged cancer so that they can receive timely and much-needed services.

I firmly believe that cross-sector and multi-disciplinary collaboration is the key in cancer control. We have a strong link with UICC, including organizing symposiums, supporting World Cancer Day, and editing the Chinese version of the Cancer Atlas, bringing international perspectives on cancer control to HK and Asia. Since 2012, I have taken the lead in working with the public and private sectors, civil society and tertiary institutes in advocating for comprehensive cancer plan, which resulted in the promulgation of the 1st Hong Kong Cancer Strategy by government in 2019.

Separately, I have been the Chairperson of CIFA since 2008, with the vision of ‘Converging Professional Wisdom for Family Well-Being’, organizing successful regional symposiums and Family Summits in various parts of Asia, orchestrating the Asian Award For Advancing Family Well-Being, and conducting cross country studies on family issues. CIFA has been granted Special Consultative Status by the Economic & Social Council of the United Nations in 2021.

I am confident that with my strong vision, extensive experience, and network in the international arena, I can make a substantial contribution in creating a greater impact in the fight against cancer.

Video message

Alex Filicevas
Executive Director
World Bladder Cancer Patient Coalition

Brussels, Belgium

Why would you like to be on the UICC Board of Directors?

I am a strong believer that to achieve equitable change for all, we must work together and empower organisations locally, ensuring that no one country or community is left behind. As the world faces public health threats, efficient patient-focused approaches to all aspects of cancer control are critical. UICC shown years of impactful change around the world. I would be honoured to serve the UICC on its Board of Directors.

I’m a passionate patient advocate with experience in cancer policy and multi-stakeholder collaboration. Building-up WBCPC from the ground up, and helping other patient-led groups do the same locally, I feel close to the challenges local groups face.

I’m experienced in working with advocacy organizations across Europe, bringing patient voice to policy-making. My roles allowed me to work with a global community too. I believe each UICC member offers experiences and unique approaches to common challenges we should embrace. Convening and providing a platform for all to come together and share knowledge is dear to me.

I would like to contribute to UICC through capacity building. To build on perseverance shown in recent years and emerging needs with UICC community. I would ensure that extensive capacity building offering of UICC continues to grow. Listen and respond to member needs – helping them become best advocates whilst bringing their knowledge to UICC international community.

What makes you a good candidate for the UICC Board of Directors?

I lead World Bladder Cancer Patient Coalition, focused on improving support and patient-led information, advocacy and awareness. Daily I am inspired by patients and advocates, dedicating their time to drive meaningful change in cancer. Our strength comes from diversity of challenges and experiences.

I have experience working with diverse group of stakeholders in oncology policy. I’ve collaborated with institutions, pan-European and national organisations in health and social policies related to cancer. I serve on committees at European Cancer Organisation, EFPIA Patient Think Tank. I’m actively involved in Global Cancer Coalitions Network, WECAN and European Commission cancer thematic groups.

As we build a way forward for cancer we must learn and respond to complex needs across the world. The diversity of UICC membership and its global leadership, is uniquely placed. I would be honoured to contribute my knowledge and experience. I see strong national patient groups, cancer and professional societies as essential element of advocacy. At WBCPC I focus on capacity building and supporting growth of patient groups. I’m President of All.Can international, where we focus on reducing inefficiencies in cancer care through evidence-creation and policy leadership.

I have benefited from capacity building and excellence from initiatives such as EUPATI, including UICC. I wish to help create value for members, empower strong advocacy locally/regionally, and grow global UICC leadership.

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Cristiana Fonseca
Health Education and Capacity Building Head of Department
Portuguese League Against Cancer - Northern Branch

Porto, Portugal

Why would you like to be on the UICC Board of Directors?

I have been working in cancer prevention for almost 25 years and from the beginning I was challenged to consider the European and global dimension in all the projects we develop. The Portuguese League Against Cancer has been a full member of the UICC since 1983 and that is why I knew and recognized its various efforts over the years to bring all organizations together in the same objective: to fight cancer. UICC is really a reference for me as it is a supportive and innovative organization that seeks to fill the gaps towards equity and universal care for all.

I have been part of UICC Board of Directors for the last 4 years, which has allowed me to grow professionally, get in touch with new realities and reformulate the way I work in my own country. On the other hand, I firmly believe that it is very important to project the future wisely, bearing in mind the lessons and insights of the past, which is achieved through the continuity articulated with the renewal of the Board of Directors.

I believe that my experience in cancer prevention and health education, in addition to my knowledge of tobacco and HPV issues, especially working with young people, will be useful for the coming years and challenges at UICC.
Finally, as the only representative of the Southern and Mediterranean countries of Europe, I would very much like to have the opportunity to be on the UICC Board of Directors for a final term, to continue the work, do more and do it better.

What makes you a good candidate for the UICC Board of Directors?

Half of my life was dedicated to Cancer Prevention and Health Education and the various projects I developed over the years allowed me to explore all the theoretical knowledge of Psychology applying it to Health Education in various environments, formal and informal.

Over the years, other responsibilities and projects ended up being assigned to me, which allowed me to broaden the understanding of cancer beyond prevention, namely with regard to patient support or capacity building. I also progressed from working on the ground for a team management position and I believe that both perspectives are important once on the UICC Board of Directors. In addition to work at regional and national level I also had the opportunity to represent my institution at European level, which allowed me to create strong links and networks, notably with regard to smoking prevention and the European Code Against Cancer guidelines and communications, which could strengthen the UICC membership and partnership dimension.

Being Portuguese is also a strong point in my favor as a representative of southern European and Mediterranean countries, but also because it allows me to communicate with many Portuguese-speaking countries (namely in Africa) but also with so many immigrant communities around the world. Finally, I think it's important for the UICC Board of Directors to have some continuity and that's what I guarantee if I stay there for another two years.

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Carolina Goic
Executive Director
Foro Nacional de Cáncer Foundation

Santiago, Chile

Why would you like to be on the UICC Board of Directors?

As Executive Director of the National Cancer Foundation Forum of Chile, as well as the author of our national cancer law, the creation of which I led hand in hand with members of the general public and those from the academic world, all of whom understood the priority of working together to save lives, to beat cancer. Over the years, and specifically during the development of the national cancer law, I have learned about the work carried out by the International Union for Cancer Control and I am convinced that it is not only the best platform from which to continue sharing our experiences, but one which also offers the opportunity to learn from the success stories and to strengthen and support all of us who have committed our lives, our profession, and above all our hearts to defeating cancer. A platform that encourages training, allowing bridges to be built between governments, those in decision-making positions, and members of the public and academia. I am also a social worker by profession and an economist, and I believe that I have the academic tools to contribute, especially in the proposals of public health policies, to improve the quality of life of people with cancer. My goal is also, as cancer survivor, to contribute to the humanization of the treatment of people with cancer and to improve the way in which communities get involved with cancer support and above all to tackle the strong inequalities that exist within our Latin American and Caribbean countries.

What makes you a good candidate for the UICC Board of Directors?

The last 16 years in the Chilean Congress, first as a deputy and then as a senator of the Republic, have made me an expert in legislative matters and, more generally, in the knowledge and management of everything related to the public affairs. The foregoing allows me to quickly understand the administrative reality of institutions and countries, which allows me to visualize development opportunities that allows facilitate the transfer to effective public policies. On several occasions I have chaired the health commission in the senate and I have vast experience in working in diverse teams, negotiations and generating agreements. My current role as an academic at the Pontifical Catholic University of Chile, added to my capacity as executive secretary of the National Cancer Forum Foundation, and my own experience as cancer surviver, has allowed me to enhance all the skills previously acquired and given me tools to have a global view of cancer, where I believe I have a great deal of accumulated experience and also a my extensive network of contacts at the international level that I'll like to put at the service of UICC. I have worked actively with the UICC, especially with Professor Rifar Atun for more than 10 years, as well as collaborating in dissemination and training activities.

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Todd Harper
Chief Executive Officer
Cancer Council Victoria

Melbourne, Australia

Why would you like to be on the UICC Board of Directors?

We face a critical time for cancer recovery.

The pandemic has presented new challenges for our sector; inequality in access to COVID-19 vaccines, missed and late-stage cancer diagnoses, and disrupted cancer support and prevention programs. Navigating a cancer diagnosis has never been more challenging as health systems have been stretched, livelihoods challenged, and social networks disrupted. The voices of people living with cancer can, and must, inspire us to ensure their experiences are at the heart of our vision for a cancer and healthcare system that values equity and universal health coverage.

The advocacy of UICC and its members will be vital in the leadup to the UN High Level Meeting on Universal Health Coverage in 2023.

The pandemic is another reminder of why universal health coverage is fundamental for cancer. Through UICC’s global leadership, we can use our unique experiences of the pandemic to redesign our systems with a focus on community, value for money, knowledge sharing and equity. We must also maintain our collective ambition for prevention, especially tobacco control, to protect our gains in the face of tobacco industry challenges. Working together, we will inspire more collective action on other risk factors and improving access to screening for all. The choices we make and the values we champion are never more important than in difficult times such as these. I’m ready to help UICC and its members lead this cancer recovery.

What makes you a good candidate for the UICC Board of Directors?

HKACS provides comprehensive services for cancer patients and their families. For equity, we have introduced the Medical Assistance Scheme and Charity Bed Program to assist underprivileged cancer so that they can receive timely and much-needed services.

I firmly believe that cross-sector and multi-disciplinary collaboration is the key in cancer control. We have a strong link with UICC, including organizing symposiums, supporting World Cancer Day, and editing the Chinese version of the Cancer Atlas, bringing international perspectives on cancer control to HK and Asia. Since 2012, I have taken the lead in working with the public and private sectors, civil society and tertiary institutes in advocating for comprehensive cancer plan, which resulted in the promulgation of the 1st Hong Kong Cancer Strategy by government in 2019.

Separately, I have been the Chairperson of CIFA since 2008, with the vision of ‘Converging Professional Wisdom for Family Well-Being’, organizing successful regional symposiums and Family Summits in various parts of Asia, orchestrating the Asian Award For Advancing Family Well-Being, and conducting cross country studies on family issues. CIFA has been granted Special Consultative Status by the Economic & Social Council of the United Nations in 2021.

I am confident that with my strong vision, extensive experience, and network in the international arena, I can make a substantial contribution in creating a greater impact in the fight against cancer.

Video message

Dilyara Kaidarova
Director
Kazakh Institute of Oncology and Radiology

Almaty, Kazakhstan

Why would you like to be on the UICC Board of Directors?

UICC has proved itself as a powerful organization, which has a significant impact on the overall development of cancer care globally. Having joined the UICC over a decade ago as a member, I have been increasingly engaged in its activities, which lead to my participation as an organizer of the World Cancer Leader’s Summit in Nur-Sultan in 2019. Within the last 7 years as a country's Chief Oncologist, Kazakhstan has significantly improved its cancer control landscape. Understanding our country’s healthcare challenges in conditions of limited funding, we adopted the National Comprehensive Cancer Control Plan, which allowed us to attract additional financing of all existing services and allocate more budget to to molecular-genetic testing, targeted and immunotherapy, free imaging, and measures to provide access to best cancer care for all. I took the responsibility for the important decision to allocate funding to the construction of 5 new cancer centers in Kazakhstan regions with the installation of linear accelerators. For the first time online tumorboards were introduced as a part of the educational program and treatment procedures. Kazakhstan is the first Eurasia country which introduced the cancer screening program fully covered by the State Budget. Since 2021 I have united the Central Asia and Caucasus countries in an educational program and tumorboards. I would be honored to apply my best knowledge and experience as an Eurasia region cancer control leader to the UICC Board

What makes you a good candidate for the UICC Board of Directors?

Thanks to my involvement in the work of UICC, I have a clear understanding and full commitment of the UICC aims, principles and values. I am dedicated to promotion of a comprehensive approach to cancer care: from prevention, early detection to rehabilitation and palliative care, on the regional and international level, with the focus on countries with limited resources. In 2008, I initiated the "Together Against Cancer" Public Fund with the aim of involving of the Kazakhstan’s society against cancer, attract resources to cancer patients. In 2016, I organized the Kazakhstan Cancer Society, which joins and leads the efforts of multidisciplinary teams to promote continuous education, research and palliative care programs.

For the past 7 years I’ve been leading of the administrative and clinical services of the KazIOR, which has developed collaborative relations with world’s leading cancer institutions and NGO.
Despite administrative activities, I continue my scientific life : in 2021 I was invited as an expert to the Lancet Commission and in 2022 I was elected to IGCS Council of Asia and Oceania for 2022-2024.
I believe that my extensive professional and personal relations, as well as understanding of the management in the Eurasia region will allow me to contribute to the development of high-standard cancer care services in developing countries and countries with limited resources.

I would highly appreciate your support for my candidature to the the UICC Board of Directors.

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Gilberto Lopes
Professor of Clinical Medicine, Associate Director for the Cancer Center, Hematology and Medical Oncology Fellowship Director
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center and Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami

Miami, United States of America

Why would you like to be on the UICC Board of Directors?

As a native Brazilian who has lived and worked in Asia, Latin and North America, I have seen first hand the issues that hamper cancer control spanning three continents and settings from low to high income countries, including underserved areas in the latter. These experiences have cemented my conviction that as a united community we can promote greater equity and bring cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment to the global health and development agendas, reducing the burden of the disease around the world. Cancer has also touched my personal and family life, which moves me to fight the disease with even more tenacity and effort. Over the years, I have developed a network of contacts and friends in governments, civil society, academic and United Nations organizations, which I hope to leverage in supporting UICC's missions and priorities of bringing together the cancer community and world leaders, building capacity to meet regional and national goals, and transforming commitments into local actions.

What makes you a good candidate for the UICC Board of Directors?

I am a practicing physician, and accomplished researcher, educator, administrator, and cancer advocate, as well as a leader in Global Oncology and cancer control. I have closely collaborated with researchers, policy makers and patient advocates around the world. I have run hundreds of clinical trials, which have led to the approval of several anticancer agents, as well as health economics, access and outcomes studies that aimed to inform policy makers and support advocates in increasing access to cancer medications around the world. I have served as an expert to the WHO and the IAEA in official cancer-related missions and I have advised on national cancer control plans in Asia and Latin America. I have served in leadership positions with oncology societies in Singapore, Brazil and the United States, including ASCO’s International Affairs Committee. I have also supported UICC’s missions in several forms. As Editor-in-Chief for the Journal of Global Oncology, a collaboration with UICC, I have led the Journal to become the main outlet for Global Oncology research. I was also co-chair of UICC’s review of the WHO Essential Medicines List for cancer and I have served on the Technical Board of the City Cancer Challenge initiative.

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Kenji Lopez-Cuevas
Lawyer | President
Cancer Warriors of Mexico Foundation

Mexico City, Mexico

Why would you like to be on the UICC Board of Directors?

Since I witnessed the extraordinary global work of the UICC, representing the voice of millions of patients through 1,200 member organizations in 172 countries, I had clear in my mind I wanted to be part of the main decisions’ body inside the UICC with one objective: to share, spread and replicate the benefits of using the law against cancer as I do in Mexico.

Fortunately, I was elected Member of the Board of Directors for the 2020-2022 term. During this time, I have had the opportunity of leading UICC’s organizations members of Latin America region in three routes:

  1. Working together to effectively increase our impact having the UICC as a global supporter.
  2. Considering the use of law and public policies as effective mechanisms to generate formal exhortations and proposals to address the obstacles we face in the battle against cancer in Latin America.
  3. Commemorating the World Cancer Day 2021 and 2022, organized by the UICC, with specific activities promoting formal calls to actions addressed to our health and finance authorities regarding cancer control.

I would like to continue my work at the UICC Board of Directors under the leadership of our following 2022-2024 President: Professor Jeff Dunn.

Due to the above is why today I am respectfully asking you to vote for me to be reelected.

I will continue working hard and passionately, and the most important: together. This battle needs all of us and only together we will bring down cancer!

What makes you a good candidate for the UICC Board of Directors?

As a persistent and passionate Mexican Lawyer, I am most determined to contribute to increasing the defense of cancer patient’s rights using my legal knowledge and international experience.

Acting as President of Cancers Warriors of Mexico Foundation I have led different legal initiatives and law amendments in the field of cancer control:

Today, more than 6,000 parents of children diagnosed with cancer have the right to ask for an occupational leave for up to 1 year with 60% of their salary paid by the Mexican government.

Additionally, we lead the #CancerInTheAgenda movement which seeks to commit candidates for public positions to promote actions for the benefit of cancer patients. Currently we count with more than 500 allies among governors, senators, federal and local representatives, and mayors.

Thanks to this movement we obtained the unanimous approval of our legal initiative #OneDayAgainstCancer in three Mexican states to provide one paid day off to workers to carry out studies for early detection of breast, cervix and prostate cancer.

We are working is the promotion of the General Cancer Law to set the basis of the Mexican Cancer Control Plan with the corresponding public budget for its execution.

My fight is in memory of those who fought and are no longer with us, as Tere, my mother, for those who fought bravely and survived, for those who are currently fighting and for those who will have to face the challenge. We are all in this together!

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Asem Mansour
Chief Executive Officer/Director General
King Hussein Cancer Center, Amman Jordan

Amman, Jordan

Why would you like to be on the UICC Board of Directors?

I seek to be of added value as a leader, as a visionary, as an advocate to Cancer care and most importantly as a CEO who strives to advance research that fills the gaps in our understanding of cancer in the Arab world, empower life-saving treatment and the much needed cutting-edge research across the Middle East by investing in clinical and academic priorities to enhance overall service and provide a holistic patient experience in which will ultimately alleviate the human suffering in similar, affected areas.

This is where my true calling lies, starting from prevention to survivorship, we successfully managed to provide the optimum portfolio of services “through delivering excellence in all clinical and non-clinical activities” and “building regional & international network with high level, eminent intuitions” which ultimately paved the way for KHCC to stand out today as a renowned, leading state-of-the art Cancer Center in the Region and an international Cancer care hub sought from around the world.

I also seek to build network of international collaborations by developing valuable ties with medical, research, and academic institutions worldwide and learn new skills to adapt and apply in pursuit of providing access to education, training, public awareness and moving towards excellence by working to enhance overall patient care through improving the patient experience logistically, psychologically, & medically.

What makes you a good candidate for the UICC Board of Directors?

In my mission to transfer our success story/unique experience, I have successfully managed to establish regional and international programs under my guidance by promoting preventive measures and delivering all stages of comprehensive Cancer care by treating patients as a “whole”, focusing on their physical, emotional and social well-being.

In pursuit of these continuous efforts, I also focused my outreach initiatives as a leader, towards positioning KHCC regionally as a leading Oncology center by capitalizing on recent advancements and success in the fields of cancer control, cancer care, and oncology training and research, throughout:

  1. Investing great efforts to improve institutional core competencies including human capital and infrastructure and efforts to strengthen action-oriented translational research to adapt programs that have proven to be effective in high-income countries to every setting in which they are needed
  2. Operating with a commitment to seeking out and providing effective progressive procedures by personalizing interaction & medical care, ensuring patient safety, and providing the optimum portfolio of services

As for my collaboration with UICC, I was shortlisted for the Best CEO Award in 2018 and participated with UICC as a speaker at various Leadership Summits over the years and was determined to highlight our success story and further explore ways to expand access of Cancer care to neighboring developing Countries facing similar challenges

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Miriam Mutebi
Consultant Breast Surgical Oncologist
Aga Khan University

Nairobi, Kenya

Why would you like to be on the UICC Board of Directors?

It is a critical time for cancer control globally! As a result of the pandemic, we saw a considerable decline in cancer funding and efforts. Through various initiatives, we now starting to have a more connected, dedicated, enthusiastic, global workforce along the entire cancer continuum! I intend to help us leverage our collective strengths and connections in order to innovate and amplify collaborative, region appropriate, evidence based, data driven solutions that help us to improve journeys for cancer patients and to address current gaps! Practical regional research and mentorship, developing sustainable models for health worker/faculty education and advocating for enabling policy with a patient-centric focus will be key areas I intend to support and help build!

What makes you a good candidate for the UICC Board of Directors?

As a current board member, I have had the honor of serving in various areas including as chair for the Commonwealth taskforce for the elimination of Cervical Cancer and on the ATOM coalition committee to improve access to cancer medicines. With these efforts, we have had considerable commitments from policy makers, and stakeholders and I hope to help amplify and actualize these strategies to improve both women's health and access to essential medicines globally in the next two years . I hope to lend my collaborative skills to connect and build more regional multidisciplinary communities of practice, especially along capacity building around women's health and universal health coverage. Through the regional dialogues and increasing engagement through my leadership roles at AORTIC and KESHO, I hope to help expand the involvement of African nations with UICC, especially those in Francophone and Lusophone regions. It is the anticipation that through these efforts we can foster greater connectedness for all African countries, in the global oncology discourse. As an oncologist practicing in an LMIC, I am able to reflect on 'pain points', but also on opportunities to help improve cancer care delivery! With my experience in policy in Kenya as the co-Chair of the National Cancer Taskforce and in other parts of Africa, I am able to provide strategies to help develop resilient health policy in these and other regions. I believe we collectively have the ability to build back better!

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Ana Christina Pinho Mendes Pereira
Director General
National Cancer Institute - Brazil

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Why would you like to be on the UICC Board of Directors?

Being in charge of the reference center for cancer control in Brazil since 2016 is an honor and a challenge. Leading a cancer public institution in a middle-income country, with so many other health issues, including Covid, demands technical knowledge, managerial skills and mainly empathy - in the sense of understanding patients’ and families’ suffering, as well as the demands of individuals at risk or suspected of having cancer. As a continental country, Brazil has diverse scenarios that reflect different stages of cancer control and, consequently, possible solutions in public policies. Therefore, I have been able to contribute to improve the quality of care services, research projects and public policies in charge of the Institute. International collaborations were enlarged to advance its reach and scope of action. We have strengthened ties in South-South Cooperation both with Latin America and with Portuguese Speaking Countries in Africa, reinforcing the Brazilian commitment towards the 2030 Agenda. The experience as a member of the UICC Board of Directors allowed me to accumulate knowledge in supporting the cancer community to reduce the cancer burden, promote greater equity and ensure cancer control in the center of the health agenda. Through the exchange of knowledge and experiences with colleagues of the Board and the extensive network of UICC members, I hope to expand and improve the convening, capacity building and advocacy strategies carried out around the world.

What makes you a good candidate for the UICC Board of Directors?

I started my career at the National Cancer Institute, Brazil, 30 years ago as a medical resident and later as an anesthesiologist. The experience in the care of cancer patients qualified me to be nominated INCA’s Director General in 2016. The practice of Innovative Leadership in Health allowed me to better develop management skills, targeting the accomplishment of the Institute’s strategic actions. For the past six years, I have participated in several initiatives for cancer control internationally, nationally and locally. At the national level, I highlight the National Plan for Chronic Diseases 2021-2030 and the Plan for the Expansion of Radiotherapy in the Public Health System (SUS). At the local level, some achievements were the launch of INCA's science, technology and innovation policy in 2020 and the Institute’s Strategic Planning 2020-2023, which guided efforts to develop strategies that advance work processes and enhance results, with better outcomes to patients. Internationally, I underline the technical cooperation programs with Portuguese Speaking Countries in Africa, working closely with partners to improve and strengthen cancer control policies in LMICs. Being the sole representative of a Latin American country at the IARC Governing Council and a member of the UICC Board of Directors allows me to bring to these environments my professional experience at INCA, the work on international organizations and my personal and professional commitment to cancer control.

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C S Pramesh
Director, Tata Memorial Hospital
Tata Memorial Hospital

Mumbai, India

Why would you like to be on the UICC Board of Directors?

I would like to serve on the Board of Directors of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) to intensify efforts at global cancer control and work towards eliminating disparities in access and affordability. The UICC is uniquely positioned to advance the cause of cancer control by promoting all aspects of cancer control from prevention, early detection, access to care, palliation, and survivorship. The global nature and diversity of its membership enables the UICC to drive advocacy, and directly influence on-the-ground work, with direct impact on the lives of millions of patients with cancer across the world. I would like to leverage my extensive experience of over 20 years in cancer control towards contributing to the UICC efforts in equity and access. By virtue of leading the National Cancer Grid in India, many initiatives that I have been involved in overlap with the UICC activities currently. Having served on the UICC Board for the past two years, I am familiar with most of the initiatives, and I am confident of being able to contribute further in the next two years. With over 70% of new patients with cancer annually likely to be diagnosed from LMICs, it would be critical for voices from LMICs like India to push the UICC agenda for global cancer control in these countries.

What makes you a good candidate for the UICC Board of Directors?

I have been an international leader in global cancer control for the past decade, and was recently awarded the Rachel Pearline Global Cancer Research Humanitarian award by the National Cancer Institute, US. I head the National Cancer Grid in India which is a large network of 272 cancer centres in the country. I am highly committed to efforts towards reducing inequities in cancer care and making cancer treatment accessible to all geographic regions and strata of society. As Director of the Tata Memorial Hospital, I lead the strategy team for the largest cancer centre in India. I have worked on several national and international cancer control programmes including the international component of the National Cancer Grid and IAEA impact reviews. As a member of the UICC Board over the past two years, I have worked closely with the UICC in several subcommittees including membership and the knowledge attitude and practice. I also work with the City Cancer Challenge initiative and have mentored cities in cancer control. I have also been part of several WHO groups including strategic management of cancer, medical devices amongst others. I work with Cancer Research UK as well as ASCO in their committees on international research and education. I will continue to contribute to the Board of Directors at the UICC by the depth of experience and wide expertise that I have accumulated over the years.

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Lorna Renner
Consultant Paediatric Oncologist and Lecturer
University of Ghana Medical School and Korle Bu Teaching Hospital

Accra, Ghana

Why would you like to be on the UICC Board of Directors?

80% of children affected by cancer have survival rates as low as 15 -45% in LMICS and the remaining 20% having over 80% survival in HICS, there has to be persistent strong advocacy by highly regarded global institutions such as the UICC to all stakeholders to tackle this gross disparity. As a leader in Paediatric Oncology for over 20 years in Ghana, I have first-hand experience of addressing challenges faced in childhood cancer control and leading the implementation of holistic strategies to address these.

My motivation to join the UICC Board of Directors is so that my experience in driving change in childhood cancer services in LMIC settings may enrich deliberations and impact board decisions for the benefit of global childhood cancer control in line with the WHO Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer goal and the World Cancer Declaration to reduce premature deaths and improve quality of life and cancer survival. I would like to be actively involved in the UICC area of Advocacy for prioritization of childhood cancers.

With the experience I have acquired in leading roles in capacity building of multidisciplinary teams at different levels of the health sector in Ghana, I would like to bring my experience to bear on the Board by participating actively in the area of Capacity Building Initiatives particularly Cancer Advocacy and Regional Engagement. I have participated in UICC activities as a speaker at the World Cancer Summits in 2013 (Paediatric Oncology session) and in 2015.

What makes you a good candidate for the UICC Board of Directors?

As a global leader in cancer control, influencing policymakers and supporting the cancer community to reduce cancer burden, UICC Board requires committed and experienced members to guide decision making to promote greater equity and prioritization of cancer control globally. I am a committed advocate for childhood cancer control evidenced by my leadership in advocacy at all levels resulting in Ghana being one of the first target countries for WHO GICC, having obtained commitment from the highest levels in the Ministry of Health.

My role as a past SIOP (International Society for Paediatric Oncology) Africa Continental President and having represented Ghana and SIOP at two World Health Assemblies in Geneva and at the African Union High level Cancer Summit in Niger has given me experience in advocacy on the global stage. Active engagement with Ghana’s First Lady resulted in huge support for childhood cancer including the inclusion of four childhood cancers on the NHIS and construction of a hostel to address major factors that lead to treatment abandonment. Other experience includes a leading role to draft the National Childhood Cancer Strategy.

My experience building human resource capacity, by initiating training fellowship in Paediatric Oncology in Ghana for West African Sub-Region and facilitating training for other cadres of health workers would be an asset. International recognition as recipient of 2021 ASCO International Women Who Conquer Cancer Mentorship Award.

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Danielle Rodin
Radiation Oncologist and Global Cancer Program Director
Princess Margaret Cancer Centre

Toronto, Canada

Why would you like to be on the UICC Board of Directors?

As a practicing oncologist and researcher in health policy and economics, I am deeply committed to health equity, global health, and cancer control. My research on improving global access to cancer care and on the economics of cancer delivery has been recognized by the WHO and the International Atomic Energy Agency, and I have contributed to Lancet and Lancet Oncology Commissions in these areas. I have applied this experience and my passion to the UICC Board of Directors over the last four years. As the first UICC Young Leader on the Board, I have also brought the voice of the next generation of cancer leaders to the organization. I am dedicated to the aims of UICC and to developing innovative strategies to engage its members, particularly young cancer professionals, in its mission.

As Director of the Global Cancer Program at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre and Chair of the Canadian Global Cancer Network, I have brought together institutions from countries around the world to collaborate on clinical care, research, education, leadership development and advocacy. Cooperation has provided critical mutual support for patients, providers, and cancer control organizations over the last two years. Indeed, the need for such international synergy and innovation has never been greater and UICC provides an important platform for knowledge exchange. It would be a great honour to continue to contribute UICC’s mission and to work with the outstanding leaders on its Board of Directors.

What makes you a good candidate for the UICC Board of Directors?

My experience in clinical practice, policy, research, and in global cancer control initiatives have allowed me to make meaningful contributions to UICC and its Board of Directors. As the first UICC Young Leader on the Board, I worked with colleagues to develop the Young Leader Alumni Programme to engage future generations of cancer leaders. As Chair of the UICC Knowledge, Advocacy, and Policy Committee, I supported UICC’s cancer advocacy regionally and internationally. I also serve on the UICC Advisory Committees to the Access to Oncology Medicines (ATOM) Coalition to improve affordability of cancer medicines, and to the UICC Solidarity Fund for Ukraine to support displaced cancer patients. Continuing to serve on the Board would provide growth and continuity on these and other initiatives.

As a physician, I understand the frontline challenges in cancer control and, as a health systems researcher, I appreciate the evidence needed to create change. As a cancer centre leader, I understand the nature and critical importance of global partnerships to improve knowledge translation and prevention, screening, and treatment for underserved populations. Princess Margaret has a longstanding commitment to UICC, and I have personally been highly engaged in its Congresses, Summits, Task Forces, and Master Courses. I would bring this experience to the Board, along with the perspective of a new generation of leaders and a deep personal and professional commitment to cancer control.

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Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu
Chief Executive Officer
Medicaid Cancer Foundation

Abuja, FCT, Nigeria

Please note that Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu is also a candidate for the position of President-elect

Why would you like to be on the UICC Board of Directors?

Cancer now ranks as the first or second leading cause of premature death (among those 30–69 years of age) in 134 countries of the world. UICC members are therefore united in our cause to address the growing cancer burden. I am passionate about mobilising this unity of purpose of our union towards expanding access to the cancer control continuum. As health systems navigate recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, the Union for International Cancer Control’s role in helping to bridge existing inequities in access to quality cancer care is significantly more relevant. Our convening power is so important today as we respond to humanitarian crises such as the support needed for cancer patients in and displaced from Ukraine.

My focus for my next term, as a Board member, will be, creating access to affordable tools we all need to fight cancer in our countries. Cancer patients in high-income countries (HICs) are exploring the benefits of cancer innovations like genomic science, cutting-edge clinical trials and increasing use of artificial intelligence. These kinds of innovations should cut across all demographics, along with the research skills to adapt their use to support patients’ needs locally. So far, despite persistent advocacy with our partners in non-communicable diseases (NCDs), global health funds and investments in cancer health systems are not reaching our field fast enough. I therefore pledge that, if elected, I will continue to work with other members to close the care gap

What makes you a good candidate for the UICC Board of Directors?

I am a patient advocate and a consultant paediatrician, I have had the pleasure of serving on the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) Board of Directors since 2018. I am founder & CEO, Medicaid Cancer Foundation which is passionate about improving cancer health literacy in our community, supporting access to diagnosis and treatment but also advocating for change – meaningful policies and building of capacities to drive research and implementation that is right for my country. Finally, and most humbly, I am the First Lady of Kebbi State, Nigeria, a role which I continue to leverage to put cancer prevention and control in the spotlight on global, regional, and national stages.

As a serving board member, I am proud to have played a role in UICC flagship activities such as the Global Breast Cancer Initiative; Access to Oncology Medicines (ATOM) and the International Taskforce on Cervical Cancer Elimination in the Commonwealth, which present an enviable opportunity for UICC to be a driver of closing the gap, I see these as excellent opportunities for UICC members to share real-life barriers and work on solutions together. As a patient advocate, paediatrician and Africa cancer policy expert, I too have had first-hand experience of the pains in access to cancer care. I am committed to facilitating bringing our stories to those global dialogues which will make our activities richer and importantly more impactful.

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Johan van de Gronden
Chief Executive
Dutch Cancer Society (KWF)

Harderwijk, Netherlands

Why would you like to be on the UICC Board of Directors?

It would be an honour and a privilege to help bring UICC closer to fulfilling its global impact. Cancer care and research are at a crossroads. We need to share more effectively proven prevention strategies across nations and territories. We must close the gap on unequal access to adequate therapies and we should prioritise the quality of life throughout all treatments.

There is also ample scope for more effective international collaboration among the research community. Societies far too often tend to raise and spend funds exclusively within their national borders, thus missing impact opportunities. I bring both a civil society perspective to the board, as well as a thorough multilateral outlook.

What makes you a good candidate for the UICC Board of Directors?

As Chief Executive of one of Europe's leading cancer societies I am, so to speak, in the thick of things working with top scientific institutions, patient organisations, branches of government and civil society leaders on a daily basis. I have just been unanimously appointed for a second term by my supervisory board (2022-2026), a good moment to share my experience more widely.

I have served on the board of the Oncode Institute for the past four years (https://www.oncode.nl), I have chaired the Supervisory Board of the International Union for Conservation of Nature in the Netherlands (2016-2020), I currently serve as the chair of the Supervisory Board of the Early Music Foundation (https://oudemuziek.nl/home/) and I serve as Chair of the Physical Environment Consultative Council (https://www.overlegorgaanfysiekeleefomgeving.nl/english/default.aspx).

Prior to joining the Dutch Cancer Society I worked as Chief Executive of the Worldwide Fund for Nature in the Netherlands and as a member of WWF's global Executive Team for a decade. I started my career as a diplomat, both in my own Foreign Service and at UNDP. I have written two books on man and nature, and our complex relationship to landscapes, the latest, a collection of philosophical essays, released this spring (https://www.singeluitgeverijen.nl/athenaeum/boek/het-vlindertje-van-methusalem/).

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Ulrika Årehed Kågström
Secretary General
Swedish Cancer Society/Cancerfonden

Stockholm, Sweden

1. Why would you like to be UICC President?

The world around us is undergoing challenging and extraordinary times. Health care systems have been tested like never before. Many of us have lost loved ones. In order to reduce the global cancer burden we need resilient health care systems, as well as societies that enable us to live healthy lives.

But in times of challenge there are also opportunities.

A recent survey from the UICC shows that two thirds of UICC members across the globe anticipate a decline in income in the medium term. More than half also anticipate a reduction in organizational activities or services as a result. You and your colleagues may already be feeling the effects of the huge economic challenges and rapid changes ahead of us.

The pandemic has widened and highlighted the inequities in health between countries and within them, and the economic downturn seen in many countries is adding fuel to the fire. Unless we accelerate our work we risk a backlash in the global fight against cancer.

As UICC’s treasurer I know firsthand that a lot of the fantastic work that member organizations do to achieve this goal comes down to funding and resource mobilization. The UICC needs to tackle the core of the problem head on. We need to step up and provide even better access to funding opportunities, to highlight the issue, and take our shared commitment to the next level. We need platforms to exchange experiences and best practices in order to give quick access to relevant information and resources during this time of crisis.

I believe that the UICC can inspire more partners and decision-makers to facilitate the leap in the fight against cancer that is within our reach. With the technology and knowledge of today, the vision of defeating cancer does not have to be merely a dream. It should be a serious worldwide commitment.

UICC plays a unique role with its purpose “to unite and support the cancer community to reduce the global cancer burden, to promote greater equity, and to ensure that cancer control continues to be a priority in the world health and development agenda”.

We, together, can make it happen. And it would be my great honor to lead the UICC movement in this progress.

2. What makes you a good candidate?

I have served on the UICC Board of Directors for the last four years. I possess a strong knowledge of the working of the UICC and I am actively involved in the current strategy review process.

For the last two years I have served as Treasurer and chair of the Finance, Risk and Audit Committee and I have been actively involved in a number of other committees and working groups. I have chaired the Knowledge, Advocacy and Policy Committee and during that time we set out five advocacy priority areas – NCCP’s (national cancer control plans), Cervical cancer, Tobacco control, AMR (antimicrobial resistance) and Equity.

I have been a member of the AMR task force, the ATOM coalition task force and I am now a member of the Strategy Review Task Force, the Governance Committee, the Congress and World Cancer Leaders’ Summit Committee, the KAP Committee and the Advisory Board of the UICC Solidarity Fund for Ukraine.

For more than 20 years I have devoted my efforts into strategic leadership and advocacy. I have lead large and complex organizations in times of change and crisis. Since 2016 I am the Secretary General of the Swedish Cancer Society. During these years we have almost doubled our fundraising to become the largest fundraising organization in Northern Europe. We have increased our funding to cancer research by 40 %. I have actively participated in the general debate on cancer control and played a strong advocacy role.

I hold a number of leadership positions, building on my previous experience as Secretary General of the Swedish Red Cross. My 10 years in the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement provided me with a comprehensive understanding of international work, collaboration and resource mobilization. My previous role has given me experience in negotiating with governments, financiers and member associations.

Additionally, I have extensive experience in governance as chair and member of boards such as; the Swedish Arts Council, the Royal Dramatic Theatre, the Swedish Young Academy, the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency, the Nordic Cancer Union, Magtoys Inc, the Folke Bernadotte Academy: Swedish agency for peace, security and development, and the Swedish Food Agency. I am often appointed by the Government but also by private sector parties. I understand governance responsibilities, and the distinction between board and staff leadership. I am also a recurring lecturer on a reputable chairmanship training program.

As a leader, I believe in fair play, as well as a transparent and inclusive leadership because I know that we can achieve more together than on our own. Considering the challenges that lie ahead of us I think this is exactly what, the UICC as an organization, need.

3. What are your ambitions for UICC in the future?

As President of the UICC, it would be my mission to lead the UICC in the newly formulated strategic direction. The strategy review was a process where all members were able to participate as equal stakeholders, which makes the process just as important as the result.

When I write this, the strategy is not yet finalized. It will be approved by the UICC Board in September and presented to the General Assembly in October. However, the Board has reassessed our long-term ambitions based on the changing landscape of cancer control.

We have reached out to members, partners and global health leaders to understand the challenges and trends that will influence global cancer control in the future. We have analyzed data and made conclusions leading us to a number of overarching priorities i.e.;

- We need to ensure that governments invest in cancer control.
- We need to scale up our work on tobacco control.
- We need to address the inequity gap between low and high income countries, within countries and regions.

My ambition as President is to continue the transition of the UICC into an even more strategic organization. I want the UICC to have more impact in the long-term, whilst at the same time, continuing to be an organization with real-time value for all its members today.

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Daiming Fan
President
China Anti-Cancer Association

Beijing, China

1. Why would you like to be UICC President?

Over the past decades, the worldwide incidence of cancer has been increasing at the rate of 3%-5% annually. In 2020,China accounted for 30% of these deaths overall and 23.7% of all new cases, with 4.57 million people diagnosed with cancer. Therefore, improving cancer control must be the first priority for us as professionals.

Facing up to the challenge of regional and global cancer burden, as the President of China Anti-Cancer Association(CACA), President of Asian Pacific Digestive Week Federation, the Executive Board Member of Asia Oncology Society AOS), and the member of UICC Board of Directors, I have the responsibility to commit myself to promote cancer control globally. I aspire to play a critical role in spreading UICC’s vision, taking action on cancer prevention and control to reach the goal of reducing cancer incidence and mortality rates worldwide through serving for UICC.

I am willingly to continue working for UICC, to strengthen the capacity of the global cancer health workforce, to reduce the global cancer burden, promote greater equity, and integrate cancer control into the world health and development agenda, and to make a difference to cancer control worldwide.

2. What makes you a good candidate?

As the member of UICC Board of Directors for two terms, I am passionate for contributing myself to realize the vision of UICC.

I am an oncologist and researcher dedicated to gastrointestinal cancer for over 40 years. Since 1989, I have published over 700 international journal articles, 68 oncology books, obtained 61 international and domestic invention patents.

I have been working for Non Government Organizations as an administrative leader for 24 years. I also served for the government by providing public health consultations.

In 2017, I was elected to be the President of CACA which is a leading NGO in the field of oncology in China. During my presidency, CACA rapidly expands its network with individual members, increased from 50,000 to 330,000, 54 new professional societies set up, and 55 member organizations joined the CACA.

I organized the largest Chinese Conference of Oncology (CCO) annually including international sessions, with participants over 30,000 per year. CCO developed to the most influential academic event in the field of oncology.

As the Editor-in-Chief, I composed the monograph entitled Holistic Integrated Oncology with 6.2 million words; I mobilized 3131 professionals to formulate CACA Guidelines for Holistic Integrative Management of Cancers with 3.7 million words. To promote the CACA guideline, I organized over 100 lectures in China and benefited 300 million online audience. Now CACA is translating guideline into English for sharing and promoting worldwide.

In 2021, cooperated with Springer Nature Group, I created the Holistic Integrative Oncology(HIO), an open-access, peer-reviewed journal on all aspects of oncology research. As the flagship journal of CACA, HIO strives to publish the highest quality content that provides authoritative guidance to oncology specialists, clinicians and researchers. I invited a large international editorial board who are the top scientists in their fields globally, aims at providing the influential and state-of-art findings to the oncology community.

I attached high importance to seeking for business partnerships to improve capacity building, and has obtained sufficient financial supports.

I have actively promoted international collaboration and successfully established relationships with leading global NGOs. I also launched oversea branches of CACA in Australia, Malaysia, Russia and USA. Under my leadership, CACA is turning to be the most influential cancer NGO both in China and the World.

As the congress president, I have successfully organized twenty international conferences including the 2013 World Congress of Gastroenterology with over 10,000 participants from 120 countries.

If I succeed in the election, I could continue to serve for UICC by devoting myself to improve UICC’s global impact and reduce cancer burden worldwide.

3. What are your ambitions for UICC in the future?

What skills and international experience can you bring?

I am good at developing global academic exchanges on cancer control. As the member of Chinese Academy of Engineering, and International member of the USA and French National Academy of Medicine, I have actively promoted international collaboration and successfully established relationships with leading global NGOs. I launched oversea branches of CACA around the world.

As the congress president, I have successfully organized 20 international conferences including the World Congress of Gastroenterology with over 10,000 participants from 120 countries. Each year I organize the most influential conference of Oncology in China including international sessions. There are about 30,000 on-site attendees annually and 70 million online participants this year. Under my leadership, CACA has grown into an influential cancer society nationwide and worldwide.

I have obtained numerous prestigious awards including the first awardee of the Prize “French National Academy of Medicine-Servier”, and the 2019 Masters of the WGO Award. As editor-in-chief I have authored 63 gastroenterology and oncology books, published 725 peer review articles on international journals and serves as editor for 15 international medical journals.

With my academic reputation and international collaboration resources, I am confident I can promote collaboration between UICC with global NGOs and cancer communities, by building networking across different cancer fields and different countries; supporting global cancer communities to works more collectively; developing more stronger and diversified collaboration strategy.

In which of UICC's priority areas can you be involved to make a difference?

UICC is the world’s leading cancer NGO, with a strong mission dedicated to uniting the cancer community to reduce the global cancer burden, promote greater equity, and integrate cancer control into the world health and development agenda. The World Cancer Declaration launched by UICC has become the strategic plan for global cancer control which provides guidelines for cancer societies from all over the world.

If I succeed in the election, I will increase UICC membership around the world, especially in China and Asia countries; to showcase the impact of UICC’s work among the UICC members, partners, global health leaders; to deliver UICC policy and strategy to all of membership; to enable cancer control on the political agenda.

I will attach importance to improve cancer care and life quality of cancer patients around the world by enhancing global academic exchanges such as launching education and training programs especially for low-resource countries; make progress in cancer prevention, early detection, current research and advances in diagnostics and treatment, integrated approaches and strengthening health systems, to decrease cancer accidence and mobility globally. To promote guideline for cancer treatment, prevention, detection and screening, to decrease disparities and inequities in cancer care in the world, to achieve the goal of closing the care gap by 2030.

Please describe your contribution to UICC to date

While serving as the Board member of UICC, I have actively participated in UICC business meetings and academic conferences providing valuable suggestions on cancer control. Over the past years, I have made contribution to the Membership committee, Capacity Building Committee, Finance, Risk and Audit Committee of UICC.

While I have been serving as the Board member of UICC, CACA has been actively involved in UICC programs. Millions from China have participated in the World Cancer Day campaigns annually hosted by CACA. To promote UICC membership, I have encouraged 20 organizations to enroll in UICC. To expand collaboration, I have engineered CACA’s signing the long-term cooperation Vanguard Program with UICC .

Facing up to the challenge of global cancer burden, as the President of China Anti-Cancer Association, President of Asian Pacific Association of Gastroenterology, Council member of the World Gastroenterology Organization, member of the Board of Directors of the UICC, I have the responsibility to commit myself to promote cancer control globally. I aspire to play a critical role in spreading UICC’s vision, taking action on cancer prevention and control to reach the goal of reducing cancer incidence and mortality rates worldwide through serving for UICC.

I am willingly to continue working for UICC, to strengthen the capacity of the global cancer health workforce, and to make a difference to cancer control worldwide by contributing my expertise, working experiences and efforts.

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Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu
Chief Executive Officer
Medicaid Cancer Foundation

Abuja, FCT, Nigeria

1. Why would you like to be UICC President?

To address global cancer inequities - between countries and within countries we need to adopt a fresh narrative and a renewed global perspective. If I am fortunate enough to become your President, with your support, I am the person that will drive that change.

Although the covid pandemic amplified the conversation on health inequalities, Cancer is still struggling to be part of discussions on the response.

As President, I will focus on accessibility, affordability, and availability of the tools we all need to fight these diseases. Cancer patients in high-income countries (HICs) are exploring the benefits of cancer innovations like genomic science, cutting edge clinical trials, and the increasing use of Artificial Intelligence. I want this for all countries, along with the research skills to adapt their use to support patients’ needs locally. Cancer Patients in many LMICs are already bearing the brunt of cancer-related mortality often with little access to cancer management, pain medication and palliative care.

Cancer ranks as the first or second leading cause of premature death (among those 30–69 years of age) in 134 countries of the world. I am passionate about mobilising this unity of purpose of our union towards expanding access to the cancer control continuum.

As health systems and the world economy navigate recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic (and now Russia Ukraine Crisis), the Union for International Cancer Control’s role to bridge existing inequities in access is significantly more relevant.

Our convening power is so important today as we respond to humanitarian crises that directly impact health security-such as the support needed for cancer patients in and displaced from Ukraine.

I ask you to join me and UICC in driving this change.

2. What makes you a good candidate?

My passion is to ensure Cancer health literacy is drastically improved around the world and I have actively been working towards this by supporting access to diagnosis and treatment as well as by advocating for beneficial policies.

I am a Consultant Paediatrician and Cancer Patient Advocate who has had the pleasure of serving on the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) Board of Directors since 2018. As the Founder & CEO of a 16-year-old non-governmental organisation, called Medicaid Cancer Foundation, I have had first-hand experience of working in the field and interacting with rural underserved communities.

As the First Lady of Kebbi State and Chairperson of First Ladies against Cancer initiative of Nigeria, we have placed cancer prevention and cancer control in the spotlight on the global, regional, and national stage. I can use my first hand knowledge of how governments in LMICs like mine work to bridge care gaps.

As a serving UICC board member working closely with our President and other board members, I am proud to have played a role in UICC flagship activities such as the Access to Oncology Medicines (ATOM), Metastatic Breast Cancers and the Cervical Cancer elimination program. Cervical Cancer Elimination in the Commonwealth presents an enviable opportunity for UICC to be a driver in the elimination agenda.

As an African Cancer policy expert, I too have had first-hand experience of the pains in access to Cancer care which is why I am committed to propelling our stories to the global stage. I am confident that this greater awareness will ultimately make our activities at the UICC richer and more impactful.

3. What are your ambitions for UICC in the future?

The power of the UICC lies with you, its members. I’m standing to be the President of our powerful organisation because I am confident that we have the strength within us to scale up support for the cancer community to reduce the global cancer burden.

With your support, I am determined to ensure that cancer control continues to be a priority in the world health and development agenda while we work towards 2030 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), targets in the World Health Organisation (WHO)’s Global Action Plan on Non-Communicable Diseases and related dedicated cancer strategies to eliminate cervical cancer as well as it’s initiatives on breast and childhood cancer.

Aside from being excited at the possibility of leading the 1200 member organisations of UICC and through them making a difference in their constituencies for improved cancer services, I have a chance to use my experience and proven track record of impactful delivery and interconnect our worlds even further.

I will work with the board of the directors to build and diversify UICC relationships and representation via platforms such as the Pan American Health Organisation, The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Asian Development Bank, African Union and the African Development Bank- I already work with some of these organisations whilst others have confirmed their commitment to work with me alongside members to identify further routes to reduce the cancer burden.

Our union can amplify efforts that strengthen member organisation’s position to drive comprehensive Cancer policies and strategies in their home nation; such as deliberating and evaluating innovative strategies and technologies in the varied backgrounds in which they work; to advocate for effective context-specific national cancer control programs tailored to different resource settings.

This objective requires that the UICC effectively translates the scientific basis for Cancer prevention, early detection, treatment, and palliative care into ready-to-use resources for the benefit of member organisations. I am dedicated to ensuring that these powerful changes will be implemented in a timely, cost-effective manner.

I am volunteering to lead this charge as the next President-Elect of UICC. Together, we will jointly work to:
place cancer warrior voices at the heart of the Union’s operations
strengthen our engagements with governments, multilateral agencies, development partners, and the pharmaceutical industry to accelerate access to cancer services and instituting stronger accountability frameworks
scale-up the exchange of oncology knowledge and skills for the purpose of bridging the capacity gap in the global healthcare workforce.

A vote for Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu as President-elect of the UICC is a vote for representation, diversity, equity & inclusion

In becoming the President-Elect of the UICC, I will be the first African Female to hold that position. This is a responsibility that I will not take lightly.

I will use my unique voice in your service and ask for your vote as a first step.

Let us unite cancer communities to reduce the global cancer burden.

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Last update

Sunday 20 November 2022

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