Meet our
president

Jessica Perkins completed her degree in Chemistry, at the University of Southampton, and worked as a scientist in the R&D of a multinational company. The focus of her work was the novel implementation, development, and testing of analytical devices to characterise the aerosols from reduced risk products, in the tobacco and nicotine industry. She then became an innovation product developer, where she focussed on materials science and device development within the heated tobacco products category. Jessica is now a harm reduction advocate and leading several advocacy platforms (including THR.net) communicating harm reduction science.

Christina is a passionate and dynamic Chart.PR CIPR and senior communications, PR and advocacy specialist interested in purpose-led work, global health, and the alleviation of inequality. Having worked internationally for over a decade, she is an expert in mission-aligned communications, campaigns, marketing, and public affairs. Leading teams, departments and coalitions, she has skills across the spectrum of marcomms, project management, and movement building. She is a Chartered Practitioner, and holds a CIPR PR Diploma and undergraduate degree in Religious Studies. She serves on the CIPR North West UK Committee, and has previously sat as a charity trustee and an advisor across movements including refugee rights, social mobility and HIV/AIDS communications.

Dr. Hazel Lincy Ebenezer is a Human Rights Consultant based in India. She holds a Ph.D. in Women’s Rights Law from Kent Law School, University of Kent, where her research focused on the intersection of law, cultural norms, patriarchy, and private forms of violence against women in India. She has also served as an adjunct professor and guest lecturer for Bachelors and Masters students. Hazel has dedicated her career to raising awareness and advocating for policies and opportunities that empower individuals and communities across the world.

Ilne Fourie is a strategic communications and digital engagement leader with over a decade of experience across global health advocacy, behaviour change communications, and mission-led campaigns. Passionate about tobacco harm reduction and public health innovation, she specialises in translating complex scientific and policy conversations into accessible, high-impact digital strategies. Having worked across international teams and advocacy movements, Ilne brings expertise in strategic communications, campaign development, digital ecosystem management, and cross-functional leadership. She is deeply committed to evidence-based harm reduction and empowering individuals to make informed health decisions through clear, credible, and impactful communication.

Bryan Steenkamp is a Content Manager at Health Diplomats, where he oversees digital content strategy and communications across multiple global tobacco harm reduction platforms. His work focuses on translating complex public health and policy discussions into accessible, engaging content for consumers, advocates, and policymakers. With experience managing international advocacy websites, webinars, and educational campaigns, Bryan is committed to advancing evidence-based conversations around tobacco harm reduction and public health innovation. Bryan is also invested in community initiatives and youth-upliftment programmes, and volunteers as a mentor to a group of boys, and hopes to empower and enable the children and provide them with the necessary skills they will need to become responsible adults in the community.

Amy holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology and International Relations, complemented by a Diploma in Sound Engineering. Her multifaceted background allows her to approach challenges with a creative and insightful perspective. Amy’s true passion lies in tobacco harm reduction and cessation, where she tirelessly advocates for healthier choices and supports those on their journey to quit smoking. She also excels in harnessing the power of social media, using her skills to drive awareness and foster meaningful connections.

Layla is a social media consultant and content creator with over five years of experience managing multi-platform accounts and developing engaging digital content. With a strong background in social media strategy, audience engagement, and brand communication, she brings both creativity and consistency to every project. Her work is driven by a deep personal commitment to tobacco harm reduction, inspired by its impact on her family, and a desire to support informed, healthier choices through clear and responsible communication.

As Fractional Chief Financial Officer at Health Diplomats, Dr. Simeon Human oversees the firm’s financial operations and long‑term strategy. Drawing on a strong background in financial management and strategic planning, he ensures the company’s financial health and operational efficiency. He is dedicated to supporting Health Diplomats’ mission to improve global health outcomes through secure and innovative financial leadership. Simeon is passionate about achieving sustainability both in his career and community. He holds a PhD in cocoa value‑chain circularity from the Royal Agricultural University in Cirencester, United Kingdom.

Dr. Benjamin Human is a medical doctor, specialising in Accident and Emergency Medicine, in the UK. He also consults for Health Diplomats, as a Public Health Analyst. 

His consulting work focuses on public health modelling, and advocating for risk-proportionate, evidence-based health policy interventions, including tobacco harm reduction.

Benjamin graduated from Leeds University, speaks multiple languages, and in his spare time  enjoys skiing in the French Alps, mountaineering, playing rugby and trail running. 

Chase Wallace is an undergraduate student at Emory University in Georgia, U.S.A. He is pursuing a career in medicine with a potential focus in international medical policy. Chase is a registered Emergency Medical Technician, an experienced YouTube video creator with over 870,000 total views, and appreciates good graphic design. When he’s not in class or working on projects for the Student Government Association, you can find him exercising at the gym.