Meet Kierra Sarfo-Kantanka | Public Health Professional and Creative

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kierra Sarfo-Kantanka and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kierra, what are you inspired by?
I find inspiration in the powerful narratives of films and the performing arts, which serve as compelling mediums to educate the public about critical public health issues. These stories vividly depict lived experiences and highlight the complexities and intersections that data alone may not fully capture. They consistently broaden my perspective and deepen my understanding of these pressing issues.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’ve always loved science and helping others, so I knew my career would be healthcare-focused. My research journey happened organically, with one job opportunity leading to another. I started as an Applied Behavior Analyst (ABA) therapist, learning the fundamentals of human behavior and how to shape it. Later, I worked as a clinical care coordinator at a non-profit clinic in Washington, D.C. Following that, I gained experience in stem cell and HIV research. Currently, I work as a program manager on a Department of Defense (DoD) funded program.

The skills I’ve gained through these opportunities have helped birth my vision, “Public Health Kie.” I use this platform to educate the public about how everything in our lives is connected to our health and how to make informed choices . I aim to branch out into podcasting, short films, and, one day, creating my documentary. The creative in me also hopes to see it circulated in local and national film festivals. By integrating storytelling and data, I want to create compelling narratives highlighting crucial public health issues and reaching a wider audience. This blend of disciplines will allow me to leverage my strengths in both areas, ultimately significantly impacting public awareness and understanding.

What sets my art apart is the unique combination of scientific research and creative expression. Through “Public Health Kie,” I aim to bridge the gap between data and lived experiences, using film and theatre to tell stories that research alone can’t convey. I am most proud of how my work connects with people on a deeper level, making complex health issues more relatable and understandable.

Getting to where I am today has not been easy. One major challenge was overcoming the misconception that creativity and healthcare are mutually exclusive. I had to unlearn this belief and carve out a niche where these fields intersect. Persistence, continuous learning, and the support of mentors and colleagues helped me overcome these challenges.

One key lesson I’ve learned is the power of interdisciplinary approaches. Combining different fields can lead to innovative solutions and new ways of thinking. I want the world to know that “Public Health Kie” is more than just a platform; it’s a movement to redefine how we view and address health issues. By integrating storytelling and data, I hope to inspire others to see the value in merging their passions to create meaningful change.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to thank Mrs. Tanisha Cidel, my theater teacher, whose guidance and mentorship honed my stage skills and transcended my personal life and research career. Through acting, Tanisha taught me to delve deep into character development by gathering “data” on their lived experiences, neighborhoods, families, and demographics. This approach strikingly parallels the meticulous research process I now engage in. Tanisha’s lessons continue to influence how I understand and empathize with others’ stories, both on stage and in my academic pursuits.

Website: https://linktr.ee/PublicHealthKie

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/publichealthkie/?hl=en

Linkedin: https://linktr.ee/PublicHealthKie