Leonora Weil’s career journey demonstrates the power of curiosity, connection and being open to unexpected opportunities.

Originally intending to become a paediatrician, Leonora’s path changed after meeting a health leader who took the time to discuss different career possibilities and introduce her to people working across health and public services. Those conversations opened her eyes to the breadth of impact public health could have and inspired her to join the public health training scheme.

That experience continues to shape her approach today.

“One of the best career decisions you can make is simply to talk to people.” Leonora is a strong advocate for mentorship, networking and making time for those who are considering their next steps, believing that a single conversation can open doors and change perspectives.

What excites Leonora most about public health right now is the growing focus on giving every child the best start in life. She sees a significant opportunity as children’s health and wellbeing become increasingly central to both London’s Health Improvement Plan and national policy.

Across London, she points to a range of inspiring initiatives already making a difference. These include efforts to improve MMR vaccination uptake through the Measles Regional Coordination Group, strengthening learning from child deaths, and the Healthier Happier Me partnership, which uses the power of sport and football to support healthier weight, physical activity and wellbeing among primary school-aged children.

One of Leonora’s most important professional lessons is that public health must strike a balance between evidence and action.

“Timing matters. Public health needs evidence and rigour, but it also needs pace.” She believes that some of the greatest opportunities to improve health come from recognising when the moment is right, building momentum and taking action rather than waiting for perfection.

Her story highlights an important reality about public health: careers are often shaped by the people we meet, the conversations we have and the opportunities we’re willing to explore. For Leonora, those conversations led to a career focused on improving outcomes for children and young people across London, and helping create the conditions for healthier lives from the very beginning.