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New Professionals

The Ontario Public Health Association (OPHA) is a hub for professional public health activities in the province and has much to offer students and new professionals. The New Professionals Working Group (NPWG) was created in 2013 to magnify the opportunities for those starting out in the public health field within the OPHA.  In 2015, the New Professionals Working Group has been rebranded to become the New Professionals Network (NPN).

By providing members with opportunities and a platform for professional development, network building, engagement opportunities, and continuous learning, the NPN offers an edge to those pursuing employment or career advancement in public health. Through its close affiliation and collaboration with the OPHA, the NPN works to engage student and new professional members by creating access to resources and knowledge-sharing through social media, web, and organization-wide, as well as providing various networking opportunities with peers as well as professionals at all levels in the industry.

The Mission/Mandate

The New Professionals Network provides a platform for students and new professionals, enabling networking, knowledge-sharing and growth, to increase value and benefits to those working towards a career in public health in Ontario. 

Core Activities

  • Hosting professional networking events, both formal and informal, bringing together peers and professionals at all levels in public health
  • Collaborating with academic and professional organizations to provide recognition and career advancement opportunities.
  • Supporting students and new professionals in their public health career through knowledge-sharing and skills-building, such as career webinar series
  • Harnessing social media and Web 2.0 to showcase OPHA members and connect students and new professionals to opportunities

Co-Chairs

Manasi Parikh (2019-Present)

Aly Shivji (2022-Present)

Interested in joining?

If you are interested in joining the New Professionals Network, please email admin@opha.on.ca


Public Health Perspectives

The Public Health Perspectives a blog hosted by the New Professionals Network, showcases the talent and expertise of student and new professional OPHA members. Blog posts cover hot topics including internship and early work experiences, the “backpack to briefcase” transition, and current issues in public health practice. 

Ebola & Risk Communication: An Analysis of President Obama’s Weekly Address

This month’s NPWG blog addresses effective #riskcommunication with an analysis of President Obama’s #WeeklyAddress #ebola

Another Year, Another Opportunity to Shine

October 2014 NPWG Blog Post

Our Story: The Birth of the New Professionals Working Group

June blog post by the New Professionals Workgroup

Public Health & the Media: Minimum Wage

New blog post by the New Professionals Workgroup!

Public Health: A Career in Lifelong Learning

By the New Professionals Workgroup

Food for Thought

It is an exciting time for me and many other Master’s students and dietetic interns. We are close to entering the workforce and the opportunities seem boundless!

Landing Your First Job in Public Health: Lessons Learned

Eric Nadalin reflects on the lessons he learned when entering the public health workforce.

Why Engagement Is Important to Me

Welcome to the inaugural post of the Students and New Professionals Working Group Blog!