Current position: Maternal and Child Health Specialist at United Nations Children’s Funds (UNICEF), Côte D’Ivoire

Ornella Pitah Boni, MPH, graduated from the Dornsife School of Public Health in 2019 with a major in Health Management and Policy (HMP) and a minor in Maternal and Child Health.

Ornella’s decision to study maternal and child health (MCH) was deeply rooted in her upbringing and personal experiences. Growing up in a country where women and children are among the most vulnerable populations, she witnessed firsthand the significant barriers they face, particularly in accessing quality healthcare. These challenges ignited her passion for advocating for the rights of women and children and her commitment to addressing these inequalities.

Her path was also influenced by her own childhood. As a child, Ornella was often unwell, and the way people treated her during those times left a lasting impression. Those experiences fueled her desire to ensure that no child or family would feel neglected or unsupported in times of need. For Ornella, studying MCH was not just a career choice but a calling to create meaningful change for those who need it most.

During her time at Dornsife, Ornella was a Dornsife MCH trainee, an APHA (American Public Health Association) MCH Fellow, and the Event Coordinator for the Drexel MCH Student Organization (MCHSO).

What is your current role? How are you using your current MCH training?

I am currently a Maternal and Child Health Specialist with UNICEF Côte d’Ivoire. In this role, I work closely with healthcare professionals, policymakers, and community leaders to improve maternal and child health outcomes across the country. My responsibilities include developing and implementing programs focused on quality healthcare, postpartum hemorrhage, and Kangaroo Mother Care for low-birth-weight infants, as well as providing technical guidance on national strategies.

My journey to this role was shaped by my academic background and professional experiences in public health and maternal and child health. My MCH training provided me with a solid foundation in understanding the complexities of health systems and the importance of integrating equity-focused approaches into care. This training also strengthened my skills in advocacy, program design, and evidence-based decision-making, all of which are essential in my current work.

By applying the principles of MCH, I ensure that my work prioritizes the most vulnerable populations, empowering women, and children to access quality care and thrive in healthy environments. My passion for making a tangible difference continues to guide my efforts in building a more equitable healthcare system.

How did your time at Dornsife influence your career?

My time as an MCH trainee at Drexel University was transformative and instrumental in shaping my career trajectory. The program provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the social determinants of health and the systemic barriers that disproportionately affect women and children. It also emphasized the importance of community-driven approaches to healthcare, which has become a cornerstone of my work.

My time at Drexel allowed me to meet and learn from an incredible network of people, including students, professors, and mentors. Among them was Dr. Renee Davis, MCH Program Coordinator, whose guidance and expertise ignited my passion for breastfeeding and the policies that support it. These connections not only inspired me, but also equipped me with the knowledge and motivation to advocate for maternal and child health at both the programmatic and policy levels.

Drexel’s emphasis on translating research into practice, combined with the mentorship I received, prepared me to approach challenges with innovative solutions. The experience reinforced my dedication to equity in healthcare and my mission to create sustainable change for women and children.

Highlights from getting your MPH at Dornsife?

I truly believe I made the right decision by choosing Drexel’s Dornsife School of Public Health for my Master’s in Public Health (MPH). The courses were not only well-structured but also deeply integrated into the community, which allowed for meaningful connections with peers, professors, and professionals. The environment at Drexel made it easy to network and build relationships that continue to benefit my career today.

A significant highlight of my time at Dornsife was the opportunity to complete my Integrative Learning Experience (ILE) and deepen my practical knowledge. For my ILE, I worked on a project at the Foundation for International Medical Relief of Children (FIMRC), where I gained invaluable experience in maternal and child health and global health from the perspective of an organization. This internship allowed me to understand the structural, management, and policy aspects of running a health-focused organization.

I was introduced to Zane Randell, the key relations manager at FIMRC at a career fair on campus. After learning about the organization and its summer internship opportunities, I decided to apply and was fortunate to secure a position. This experience not only solidified my career interests but also enhanced my understanding of the practical challenges and opportunities within the global health and nonprofit sectors.

What advice would you give to current and future MCH trainees?

I encourage current and future MCH trainees to stay focused on their studies and make the most of their time in the program. I advise approaching coursework with curiosity and determination, as a deep understanding of the material will provide the foundation for a meaningful career in maternal and child health.

In addition, I stress the importance of engaging in group discussions, as they provide an excellent opportunity to see different perspectives on the topics being studied, fostering critical thinking, and enhancing overall comprehension.

I also encourage MCH trainees not to be afraid to approach professors or advisors for guidance. Establishing a relationship with faculty members can open doors to valuable insights and opportunities. I recommend seeking out research work to deepen knowledge and gaining a mentor who can offer support and direction as trainees navigate their academic and professional journeys.