Speakers
Plenary Session
Embedding equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in science, research, and public health is essential to addressing health inequalities. Drawing from his extensive leadership in public health science, Professor Fenton will examine how systemic inequities in research, policymaking, and healthcare delivery contribute to persistent disparities in health outcomes. Evidence shows that diverse research teams produce more innovative solutions, yet minoritised scientists remain underrepresented in leadership and decision-making roles. Professor Fenton will highlight how inclusive scientific practices, such as ensuring representative data, engaging diverse communities in research, and addressing biases in medical science, lead to more effective interventions and better health outcomes.
Professor Fenton is a senior public health expert and infectious disease epidemiologist, who has worked in a variety of public health executive leadership roles across government and academia in the UK and internationally. Professor Fenton is the Regional Director for London in the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities within the Department of Health and Social Care, and the statutory Public Health Advisor to the Mayor of London and the Greater London Authority and the Regional Director of Public Health for NHS London. He provides leadership across London for health and wellbeing, prevention of ill health, health protection and reduction of health inequalities. He was named by Powerlist as the second most influential black person in Britain in November 2020 for his work leading the fight against coronavirus and his public health leadership in tackling inequalities, and was awarded a CBE in the 2022 New Year honours list for services to public health.