Dr Armida Fernandez: No-one achieves anything alone

Dr Armida Fernandez is one of India’s foremost neonatologists, treating babies born in some of the most underprivileged and marginalized homes in Mumbai. She has dedicated her life to service in public health. From pioneering the cause of neonatology in the country by focusing on low cost solutions that are available to all, she has championed breastfeeding in India and even started the first human milk bank in the country. In 1999, Dr Fernandez’ founded SNEHA or the Society for Nutrition, Education & Health Action which has two primary goals: that of improving health-seeking behaviour among underserved communities and improving the quality of public health services. With over 500 people, today SNEHA works across urban centres with women and children and their families with a mission of raising health for all. From working in maternal and infant health care she then expanded her work to domestic violence against women and children and even palliative care, through the establishment of the Romila Palliative care centre in 2017. Dr Armida Fernandez is in conversation with Sonalini Mirchandani, a former civil servant and the founder CEO of The Communications Hub, a leading development communications organization. This conversation was recorded in Mumbai. Additional audio courtesy SNEHA (Society for Nutrition, Education & Health Action). For more information, go to www.rohininilekaniphilanthropies.org