At 23, Dr Ella Smalley – a postdoctoral research fellow at the Menzies Institute for Medical Research – was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. This lived and professional experience gave her a unique perspective on the specific challenges of young cancer patients.
It inspired her to join the Youth Cancer Action Board, through which she advocates for improved care for young people experiencing cancer.
Ella’s tenacity and drive has led her to spearhead initiatives for youth that deliver benefits nationwide, such as improved mental health programs and subsidised fertility preservation. She also recently co-ordinated an outreach program connecting young people with chronic illness, passionate about STEM, with mentors.
Ella's resilience and dedication were recognised when she won the Tasmanian Young Achiever of the Year award in 2024. She hopes to connect with policy and change makers to continue to increase consumer and community involvement and deliver better healthcare outcomes for vulnerable groups.