Follow
Dr. Yoshith Perera on twitter: @YoshiDRP
1.
What
qualities do you look for in the people you hang out with?
I try to engage with various communities and interact with a variety of different people. It is important to surround yourself with diverse perspectives. As long as everybody is smiling and laughing and having a good time, I'd probably be having a great time.
2.
What
do you do?
I am currently a public health case writer with Western University, Ontario, Canada. I also work part time with Plan Canada in retail fundraising. I am passionate about the protection and promotion of health. This complements my background in clinical medicine. I endeavor to become more involved in the global health portfolio and engage with more diverse perspectives moving forward in my career.
3.
Why
do you do what you do?
When I decided to study medicine, it was because I wanted to make a difference in the world. Even with such direction, sometimes its not enough. So I pursued my MPH degree and it really opened my eyes to how I can make a difference in the world. I do what I do, because I truly care about the world and the fragile environment in which we interact with. I believe in equity, social justice and a more sustainable way of life. This is what I want to see in the world...
4.
Is
this where you thought you would end up?
Absolutely not! I think I'm just beginning my journey...
5.
What
values are you committed to?
Transparency, Collaboration and Partnerships, Creativity, Cultural
competency, Accountability, Enthusiasm, Empathy, Humility, Humor, and Growth.
6.
How
many hours do you work in a typical week?
It really depends, at times I feel like I'm working every day. If it's not for work, its for a class I'm taking over the weekend or I'm writing a speech for the weekly Toastmasters meeting. While I continue to find something more full time, I currently work about 20 hours a week.
7.
What
skills are required in your position on a day-to-day basis?
Skills in research, analysis and writing are helpful. Communication skills are critical, but I believe this skill is important for all public and global health practitioners.
8.
Are
there any negatives to your job?
I think there aren't any negatives to my job in my perspective. There are however challenges and I believe challenges should be met with strategy. As a change agent, I find that any challenge can be potentially resolved through a respectful frank conversation.
9.
What
is the background of most senior-level executives in your SBCC circles?
They have doctoral degrees and/or MBA with regard to education. This is often complemented with many years of experience in academia and/or field work.
10. What
do you wish you knew at our stage? (IE: Entry-level SBCC enthusiasts)
I believe I am at an entry-level myself. The world we live in is very much in a rate of flux. I do wish that early on I knew the importance of heavy strategic planning. Our plans will continue to change, hence the incorporation of strategy allows for a more resilient endeavor. I do wish I had mastered the French language by now.
11. What
is the best piece of professional advice you've ever received -- and used
or implemented?
Only you can be your best advocate! You will come across so many "negative responses", to your inquiries and actions. Never be afraid to raise your questions and introduce your insights. You are responsible for yourself.
12. If
you could do it all over again, what would you do differently?
Honestly, I feel like I haven't arrived at my destination. So it would be premature for me to change my past. That being said, my perspectives and my insights are a result of my past experiences.
13. What
should keep entry-level SBCC enthusiasts up at night?
Whether they have remained ethical and rational on their communication platforms. We often forget that we need to listen more before we respond. We may wish to change the world and the communities in it for the better. But it is important to ask them if they really want it too? I believe we shouldn't hold paternalistic views on change.
14. What
professional organizations are you associated with, and in what ways?
- With the Canadian Public Health Association; I am a part of their young professionals working group.
- With the Canadian College of Health Leaders; Member
- MentorNet; I am currently a "student young professional" under their program.
- Toastmasters International; Local club member; allows me to harness my communication skills
15. What
used to be your biggest weakness?
I appreciate the creative work ethic, which means I'm easily distracted by the world's simple moments. To be frank, I believe I am forgetful. Making notes was my solution to a well-structured week.
16. What
mistakes have you made?
Many, probably. What probably defines you best is how you approached to said error. Reflecting on your question, I think they are more of an opportunity than a mistake. It's clearly the perspective you take.
17. What
one thing do you still struggle with?
I do second guess my choices. I revisit my goals and objectives moving forward. Not because I feel that they are wrong, but because I want to make them a reality. I am persistent.
18. What
traits impress you the most in a working professional, irrespective of their
area of expertise?
Their humility and conduct in a professional environment. I appreciate the professional that can see every person for the resource that they are. It takes a leader to see such passion and possibility.
19. What
are the top 7 technical skills that entry-level SBCC enthusiasts should strive
to horn?
- Data retrieval; interviewing, research
- Quantitative and Qualitative analysis
- Documentation and Reporting
- Methodological Implementation
- Planning & Evaluation
- Networking
- Team competency; management
20. Considering
all the people you have met in your line of work, what personal attributes are
essential for success?
Good listening skills and a positive demeanor.
21. What's
the best advice you can give to help plan a career rather than simply work to
keep a job?
Have SMART goals; specific, measurable, attainable, reliable and timely. They apply to your career as well. Consider your personal best and strive to beat it; you will see personal growth.
22. What
has been your most rewarding accomplishment?
I was honored to receive the Dr. M. Abdur Rab Public Health Excellence Award from the Interfaculty Master of Public Health Program at Western University. Now it's my responsibility to stay worthy of said accomplishment.
23. What
factors do you consider most often when planning for the future?
The difference I want to make in the world. The degree to which I may be adaptable in a given situation. For me personally, I believe that I am in a place in my career that would allow me to travel and make a positive global impact.
24. What
developments in the horizon could affect future career opportunities in this
field?
Should I get the opportunity to pursue a residency in public health and preventive medicine, it would allow me to work in emergency crisis environments. I believe it would be an opportunity to give back.
25.
Can
you recommend a "must-read" book that will help us
broaden our skills as working professionals or inspire us to reach my
highest potential?
I think we must all be cognizant of the world we are living in and our footprints on it. I would suggest reading: “A Short History of Progress” by Ronald Wright
26. Which
other SBCC maven would you recommend for this interview?
I would recommend one of my mentors during my internship at the Pan American Health Organization:
Name: Arantxa Cayon
Position: Communications and
Knowledge Management specialist at the Department of Non-communicable Diseases
and Mental Health, PAHO
27. What's
the most valuable question we should ask the next SBCC maven who is
interviewed on this blog?
As a communicator, if you could write a book on a social issue; what would it be and why?
