Meet Dr. Daudet Tshiswaka: A Visionary in Public Health Education at the Usha Kundu, MD College of Health

At the University of West Florida’s (UWF) Department of Public Health, Dr. Daudet Tshiswaka is not just a researcher; he is a passionate educator dedicated to training the next generation of public health professionals. With a research focus on stroke prevention and rehabilitation, Dr. Tshiswaka’s active research work in the community addresses critical health disparities that disproportionately affect minority communities, setting an active example and inspiring the department’s students. His commitment to the field makes him an inspiring figure for future public health professionals interested in making a difference.

Public health relies heavily on the research conducted by its professionals, making it essential for students to engage with public health research throughout their studies. Dr. Tshiswaka has been at the forefront of studying why minority populations face a higher risk of stroke since 2016. Initially, he utilized secondary data analysis from trusted sources like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). However, he quickly recognized the lack of representation of minority populations in existing datasets. In response, Dr. Tshiswaka is dedicated to collecting his own data to fill these gaps, demonstrating to his students the importance of understanding social determinants of health for effective public health interventions.

In addition to ensuring proper representation, Dr. Tshiswaka emphasizes the importance of cultural context in public health education. He believes that successful interventions must be tailored to the specific needs of the community. He explains, "There is no one-size-fits-all aspect when it comes to public health. You always have to make sure you understand the community. What’s their social background? What’s their culture?"

This principle was vividly illustrated during his collaboration with Columbia University on a citywide stroke prevention initiative in New York City, funded by an NIH grant he received in 2019. He developed a program that used music and video games to teach children how to recognize the signs and symptoms of a stroke, empowering them to share this knowledge with their families. By using engaging rap music, he made learning relatable and impactful, particularly for African American communities. Although the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted this initiative, it showcased Dr. Tshiswaka’s innovative and culturally sensitive approach to public health education.

What sets Dr. Tshiswaka apart as an educator is his passion for creative problem-solving. He thrives on the challenge of identifying gaps in public health and devising actionable solutions that change lives. "Being able to study an issue and come up with suggestions on how to address the gap is incredibly fulfilling," he shares. His enthusiasm for tackling public health challenges resonates with students who aspire to make meaningful contributions that directly impact individuals in their communities for the better.

Dr. Tshiswaka’s commitment to research and community engagement serves as a powerful model for UWF students. His work highlights the urgent need for future public health professionals to be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to address health disparities effectively. Anyone considering a future in public health or an advancement of their existing public health career can be deeply influenced by learning from leaders like Dr. Tshiswaka. His dedication to understanding community needs and crafting tailored interventions can inspire young professionals to explore innovative solutions to complex health issues.

Join the Conversation

The UWF Department of Public Health invites prospective students to engage with Dr. Tshiswaka and participate in the conversation surrounding health disparities and public health education. Together, we can forge a healthier future for all communities, particularly those that have been historically marginalized. For more information on Dr. Tshiswaka's work and how you can get involved, visit the UWF Department of Public Health website. Take the first step towards a fulfilling career in public health and become part of the change!