About Lourdes

I am Lourdes Akello Walusala, a Media and Communication for Development specialist, award-winning journalist, and multimedia storyteller passionate about using the power of narrative to advance global health. My work spans sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), health systems strengthening, and safe surgery and anesthesia, with one goal — to make healthcare more human, inclusive, and equitable.

I write and produce independent human-centered stories from the frontlines of health —stories that connect data with dignity and policy with people.

My Journey

My commitment to public health storytelling was born from personal loss. In June 2013, I lost my first child to placental abruption, a pregnancy-related complication characterized by high blood pressure. The experience of walking into a hospital heavily pregnant and leaving with an empty hand, leaking boobs, and a surgical scar ignited a lifelong mission: to ensure that no woman’s life is left to chance because of where she lives or what resources she can access.

What I Do

  • I work at the intersection of journalism, advocacy, and development communication, producing and amplifying stories that influence policy, funding, and social change.
  • I design and lead multimedia campaigns that translate health research and data into compelling human stories.
  • I create evidence-based narratives to promote maternal, newborn, and adolescent health rights.
  • I support organizations and leaders in telling impactful, authentic, and credible stories that strengthen visibility and trust.
  • I facilitate workshops on digital safety, gender-responsive reporting, and rights-based health communication for journalists and advocates across Africa.

Recognition

My storytelling has been featured in publications including Global Health NOW, Australian Anaesthetist, and the ASA Monitor. It has won nine major journalism awards, including the IGAD Media Award, UN Women Gender Reporting Awards, the Isu Elihle Awards, and multiple accolades from the Media Council of Kenya (Annual Journalism Excellence Awards).

About Health Binder

Health Binder is a living archive of stories that challenge, heal, and inspire. It explores the human side of health from surgical safety and maternal care to gender equity and digital rights, capturing the courage and creativity that drive better health outcomes around the world.

Through these stories, I hope to build bridges between communities, practitioners, and policymakers, proving that storytelling isn’t just communication; it’s a form of care.

Let’s Connect

Have a story idea or collaboration in mind? I’d love to hear from you.
Email: lourdes.walusala@gmail.com