February 18, 2026 – Knowledge Exchange Café

Session objectives:

1. Establish the importance of never treatment within the current context of NTD elimination and the WHO NTD 2030 Roadmap goals

2. Present an overview of the content in the WHO published Toolkit

3. Explore the use of evidence to address never treatment and improve programmatic reach in hard-to-reach areas (Guyana)

Session speakers:

Molly Brady is a global health consultant, supporting global efforts to strengthen neglected tropical disease programmes. She focuses on improving data use, programme quality, and strategies to reach underserved populations. Molly works closely with countries and partners to translate evidence into practical tools that enhance equitable NTD delivery.

Dr. Jonathan King is a scientist in the Malaria and NTDs Department at WHO. He leads WHO’s efforts in the Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis. He provides evidence‑based guidance on elimination strategies and supports countries to overcome technical challenges through strong collaboration with ministries, partners and academia.

Dr. Annastacia Sampson is a medical doctor and public health professional with nearly a decade of experience in neglected tropical diseases, focusing on lymphatic filariasis and leishmaniasis. She serves as Guyana’s Focal Point for Neglected Infectious Diseases and National Coordinator for Lymphatic Filariasis MDA, leading programme coordination and community engagement.

Session moderators:

Dr. Alison Krentel is an Associate Professor at the School of Epidemiology and Public Health at the University of Ottawa and a Senior scientist at the Bruyere Health Research Institute. Her research spans health equity and implementation research, focusing on community engagement, treatment acceptability, and translating evidence into effective programmes.

Dr. Ronaldo Scholte is a regional NTD specialist at PAHO, supporting countries across the Americas to strengthen surveillance, expand equitable access to treatment, and advance elimination goals. He provides technical guidance, builds national programme capacity, and collaborates with ministries of health and partners to drive effective, sustainable neglected tropical disease interventions.