On International Women’s Day 2024, we celebrate all of the inspirational women at The Union, as we forge a more inclusive world for women.
The Union is a diverse organisation, with female staff, consultants and members around the world in various roles and fields.
Women make up 44% of the Union membership and 44% of our workforce.
Last year, The Union membership elected a new Board of Directors to drive forward our vision – A healthier world for all, free of tuberculosis and lung disease. We meet the three incredible women who are Union Board members.
Dr Erlina Burhan
Pulmonologist and lung infection specialist
Dr Erlina Burhan is a distinguished pulmonologist and lung infection specialist at the Persagabatan General Hospital - Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia.
Focused on clinical work in TB diagnosis and management, she specialises in both drug-sensitive and drug-resistant TB at Indonesia's national referral hospital for respiratory diseases.
Actively involved in TB research, Erlina contributes to numerous scientific publications nationally and internationally. She is a member of the WHO guideline development group and collaborates with the American Thoracic Society on international standard guidelines for TB care. Erlina also represents the Private Sector Providers Constituency in the Stop TB Partnership.
Why did you want to become a board member?
My motivation for becoming a board member stems from my deep-rooted commitment to combat TB and improve respiratory health globally. With my extensive experience in TB diagnosis, management, research and education, I will help to develop and implement innovative strategies that effectively address the challenges faced by people with TB, healthcare professionals and policymakers.
By actively participating in The Union's efforts to advance scientific research, promote public health policies and support social justice initiatives, I am determined to make a tangible impact on the lives of those affected by TB and other respiratory diseases worldwide.
How did you feel when you found out you were elected?
I am truly honoured and humbled to be elected as a board member of The Union. This opportunity fills me with immense gratitude and a sense of responsibility.
I am deeply committed to the cause of combating TB and improving respiratory health, and I am eager to collaborate with my fellow board members and contribute my expertise to further advance the organisation's mission.
I am excited to work together on innovative strategies that will make a positive impact on the lives of millions affected by TB and other respiratory diseases. This appointment reaffirms my dedication to making a lasting difference in global health.
How will you support The Union to achieve its vision and mission?
I am committed to helping The Union achieve its vision and mission. I will leverage my expertise in TB diagnosis, management, research and education to inform policies and practices, focusing on prevention, early diagnosis and effective treatment.
I will advocate for increased funding and political commitment, collaborate with stakeholders to develop innovative strategies and prioritise the needs of vulnerable populations. By engaging with healthcare professionals, community leaders and policymakers, I aim to create strong partnerships and contribute to a unified approach in combating TB and lung diseases, working towards a healthier world for all.