David Imbago-Jácome
David Imbago-Jácome is a dedicated Ecuadorian advocate for sexual and reproductive health and rights, focusing on adolescent and youth participation. During medical school, he was actively involved with the National Association of Medical Students, becoming its President in Ecuador in 2016. His commitment to international health led him to serve as General Assistant for the Americas Region within the International Federation of Medical Students’ Associations (IFMSA) from 2014 to 2015. Collaborating with Ipas during his time with IFMSA, David began advocating for reproductive rights, including safe and legal abortion. After graduating, he joined the Youth Coalition for Sexual and Reproductive Rights, engaging in high-level advocacy for young people's health. In 2018-2019, he provided healthcare to indigenous communities in the Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest. From 2020 to 2022, David contributed to immunization projects and global health initiatives at CORE Group. He has been involved in PMNCH through various leadership roles since 2018, including as a Board member and Chair of the Adolescent and Youth Constituency. Currently, David directs YIELD Hub, managing operations and strategy, and is a member of the Lancet Commission on Adolescent Health and Well-being. He holds an MD from Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador and a Master’s in Public Health from Universitat Pompeu Fabra in Barcelona.
“Working with young people has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my career. Their energy, creativity, and resilience constantly inspire me. Through various roles, from my involvement with the National Association of Medical Students to my current position as Director of YIELD Hub, I've had the privilege of mentoring and collaborating with young advocates dedicated to transforming health and rights for their peers. What excites me most about advocating for youth well-being is the potential for lasting impact. Young people are at a pivotal stage of development where support and resources can fundamentally shape their futures. I believe that investing in youth health and rights is investing in the future of our societies. Their perspectives bring fresh insights and innovative solutions to some of the most pressing health challenges. One organization that particularly inspires me is the Partnership for Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health (PMNCH). Their relentless dedication to empowering young people to advocate for their own health and rights is truly commendable. They create spaces for youth voices to be heard on global platforms, ensuring that policies and programs reflect the needs and aspirations of young people. “In every young person I work with, I see a future leader with the potential to drive positive change. It’s this belief that fuels my passion for advocacy and keeps me committed to ensuring that every young person has the opportunity to achieve their full potential.”