Janet Djomba, Director of Public Health, London Borough of Barnet

Janet Djomba’s public health career has its roots in Slovenia, where she studied medicine. Although public health did not initially capture her interest, she eventually realised her passion lay in helping people stay healthy rather than treating illness. Supported by an influential public health professor who became her mentor, she pursued public health training and doctoral studies, despite facing challenges in securing a training post.

Her first role in a national public health organisation proved transformative, exposing her to health promotion and improvement work on a large scale. Later, moving from Slovenia to the UK required leaving behind an established reputation and professional network, but it ultimately opened new opportunities to experience public health within local government.

Janet’s determination is reflected in her early experiences in England. Unable initially to secure a public health consultant post, she accepted a strategist role before quickly progressing through consultant positions and ultimately becoming Director of Public Health.

Today, she is motivated by the belief that small actions genuinely improve lives, from vaccination uptake to active travel. She speaks proudly about leading a highly committed public health team that continues to deliver exceptional work despite financial and organisational pressures. Improving walking and cycling infrastructure remains one of her greatest ambitions for Barnet.