Why BD SUMHAC?

"I am an MSW with a passion for health justice. For as long as I can remember, I have been drawn to behavioral health research and care and treatment and have always worked to align my professional work with this area of practice in some way, shape, or form. My commitment to inclusive modes of behavioral health care has allowed me to bridge these interests with other areas of public health and community-centered practice, including HIV/AIDS care and treatment and early childhood development. Upon learning more about the behavioral health access issues being experienced by the bleeding disorders community, I was immediately drawn to BD SUMHAC and its advocacy work. Anywhere I see an issue of health inequity, I feel a sense of responsibility to better understand the situation and work with folks who are already doing the work to support them in their mission. BD SUMHAC has done an incredible amount of work over the last few years that is quite inspiring to see! I am so happy to be part of the team and helping to move the needle even further in the right direction for folks in this community."

Bio

Kayla is a clinically trained social worker and independent consultant with a Master of Social Work, specializing in children, youth, family practice, and behavioral health. Since 2019, she has supported public health and early childhood development teams globally as a project manager, researcher, and monitoring and evaluation specialist.

Her diverse portfolio includes experience in pediatric and adult HIV/AIDS care and treatment clinical programming, healthcare capacity building and workforce development, health informatics and software design, and community-based early childhood and youth development assessment and evaluation.

Kayla is committed to health justice through anti-oppressive practices that are inclusive and participatory with stakeholders most impacted by decision-making processes. Originally from Boston, MA, she now resides in Cape Town, South Africa. She is the proud mother of Khanya and enjoys spending time with her family and indulging in a great cup of coffee.