Dr Catherine Mbema Awarded MBE in 2026 New Year Honours

We are delighted to congratulate Dr Catherine Mbema, Director of Public Health, Lewisham for being appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2026 New Year Honours list. This prestigious recognition celebrates Catherine’s exceptional contribution to public health and her unwavering commitment to improving health outcomes for communities in Lewisham and beyond. Catherine has previously served as Vice Chair for our regional network (2022-2024), and leads the ‘Improving Ethnicity Data Collection and Research’ workstream within our Public Health – Tackling Racism and Inequality programme.

In addition, three other distinguished members of ADPH UK were recognised in the King’s 2026 New Year Honours list, announced in the official newspaper of the Crown, The Gazette on 29 December. ADPH President, Greg Fell (Director of Public Health for Sheffield) was awarded an OBE, while our Vice President, Alice Wiseman (Director of Public Health for Gateshead and Newcastle) and Tim Allison (former ADPH Board member and Director of Public Health for the Highlands) were also awarded MBEs.

Dr Mbema has played a pivotal role in shaping local health strategies, championing health equity, and leading collaborative initiatives across London. Her leadership has been instrumental in strengthening public health systems and delivering innovative, community-focused programmes that address health inequalities.