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Dr. Chanelle Mulopo, a postdoctoral fellow at CERI, researches how extreme weather events affect mental health in vulnerable African communities, using participatory and inclusive methods to center local voices. Motivated by her early experiences with health inequities, she advocates for equity, transdisciplinary collaboration, and empowering women in science.

Dr Chanelle Mulopo’s journey into science, particularly health sciences, has been deeply personal and shaped by lived experiences. “Growing up in various low- and middle-income countries, I witnessed stark disparities in access to healthcare. While my family had access to private care, I saw many around me – often my playmates – suffer due to lack of access, especially during a dysentery outbreak that claimed the lives of several children,” she explains. “My brother and I also fell ill, but thanks to private healthcare, we recovered. That moment left a lasting impression on me and sparked my interest in health equity.”

During her Master’s in Health Promotion and Public Health, Chanelle came across literature on WASH-related diseases – including dysentery. “I was struck by the fact that these diseases are largely preventable, yet continue to cause high rates of illness and death among children in Sub-Saharan Africa. This reignited my childhood memories and motivated me to act,” she shares. “That was the turning point when my research interest in the intersection between the environment and public health was solidified.” Chanelle pursued a PhD focused on this area, which eventually led her to her current role at CERI, where she continues to explore climate and environmental impacts on health.

Chanelle’s current work at CERI explores the impacts of extreme weather events on the mental health of individuals living in vulnerable communities across four African countries: Kenya, Mozambique, Burkina Faso, and South Africa. “This is a transdisciplinary research project that applies mixed-methods approaches to understand these complex interactions between climate and mental health. My specific contribution focuses on digital storytelling and participatory action research – methods that allow us to centre the voices and lived experiences of those most affected by climate extremes,” she explains. “These approaches are not only innovative but also inclusive, enabling participants to co-produce insights and solutions that are grounded in their everyday realities.” In the broader context of public health and innovation, this work underscores the importance of equity, local knowledge, and creative methodologies in shaping climate-resilient and mentally healthy communities.

CERI supports women in science through a range of initiatives. Chanelle really appreciated the grant writing training and the opportunity to be part of a transdisciplinary team applying for competitive EU grants. “As an early career researcher, building skills in grant writing is essential for a successful research career, so being given the space to learn and apply those skills has been incredibly valuable,” she says. “I’ve also had the chance to meet and engage with brilliant scientists, and I’m fortunate to be under strong mentorship – something that’s made a big difference in my journey so far.”

Chanelle is proud of her publications, the global collaborative networks she has built, and the opportunity to work with inspiring people daily; these connections keep her motivated. “One of the most rewarding moments I have had took place during a participatory storytelling workshop, when a community member shared that it was the first time anyone had asked how the floods affected their life.”

Looking ahead, Chanelle is eager to secure a competitive early career grant. “This would be a major milestone in building the impactful research career I envision,” she says.

Encouraging young girls and women who are curious about science to go for it, Chanelle says there is room for everyone in science. “The world is full of complex challenges, and the solution to one of them might come from you. I’m not saying you need to go out and change the whole world, but your work can contribute something meaningful. And that matters.”

News date: 2025-08-08

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