At the 2026 fireside chat, you will have the opportunity to interview our youth representative for neglected tropical diseases, Leonie Maier. Since October 2025, Leonie Maier has been Germany’s first Youth Ambassador for Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs). The 28-year-old medical student from Leipzig was already actively engaged in global health issues prior to her appointment.
In her role as Youth Ambassador, she brings the perspective of young professionals into the discussion on global health and development cooperation. Her goal is to increase the visibility of neglected diseases and strengthen international collaboration. World NTD Day provides an important occasion for this mission.
You are welcome to use the following short interview for publication.
Embargo: 30 January 2026
Three Questions for Leonie Maier
- What does global health and World NTD Day mean to you as a representative of the younger generation in Germany?
"Global health represents solidarity and responsibility beyond national borders. World NTD Day reminds us that millions of people continue to suffer from diseases that are preventable and treatable. Especially in times of multiple crises, we must not treat global health as a secondary issue. Combating neglected tropical diseases is a central contribution to poverty reduction, education, and social stability – also from the perspective of the younger generation in Germany."
- How do you assess the current reform agenda of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) regarding the fight against neglected tropical diseases?
"The BMZ reform agenda offers an opportunity to anchor global health more strategically and sustainably. It is important that neglected tropical diseases continue to be considered a cross-cutting issue. In particular, cross-sectoral approaches such as One Health, which link health, environment, and development, can significantly strengthen the effectiveness of NTD programs if implemented consistently."
- What personally motivates you to engage as Youth Ambassador for neglected tropical diseases?
"I am motivated by the profound injustice that diseases persist solely due to poverty and lack of political attention. As a medical student, I see how much knowledge and effective interventions already exist – and how little of it reaches those affected. I also notice that neglected tropical diseases are hardly addressed in the curriculum. As Youth Ambassador, I want to connect young professionals, share knowledge, and contribute to putting NTDs higher on the scientific, political, and media agenda."
Contact for Interviews:
Coordination Office: ntd-net@gundh.com