Lestari

Studies: Master in International Health
From: Indonesia
Background: Medical Doctor

I am a medical doctor from Indonesia, working in HIV prevention, treatment, and research, with a focus on women living with HIV.

In Indonesia, many women learn about their HIV status at a late stage, often when their health has already started to decline. Alongside managing their illness, they often face stigma, fear, limited access to clear information, and difficulties in reaching health services, including mental health support.

Working closely with these women has shown me how hard it can be to receive proper care, and how much this affects their daily lives. These experiences have shaped my commitment to improving HIV services for women in ways that respect their dignity and lived experiences.

Beyond clinical care

I decided to continue my studies because I want to strengthen my understanding of health systems and healthcare services beyond clinical care. Through further training, I aim to develop the skills needed to design, manage, and evaluate health programmes, and to understand how services can be better organised to meet the needs of vulnerable groups. Learning in an international and multidisciplinary environment also allows me to gain new perspectives and learn from others working in similar fields.

After graduation

After completing my studies, I plan to return to Indonesia and continue working in HIV prevention and treatment. I want to use what I have learned to contribute to larger and more effective health programmes, particularly those that support women living with HIV. By helping to improve how HIV services are organised, I hope to support care models that combine medical and psychological support, reaching more women in need.

I am very grateful to the KIT Fund for this opportunity. This support allows me to continue learning, growing, and working toward better care and stronger support for people living with HIV in my country.