Iresha Withanage

She/her

Journey to Keep People Healthy!

I'm from: Sri Lanka
Current Location: Hobart, Tasmania
Position: PhD candidate, Menzies Institute for Medical Research
Field of research/work: Public Health
YTS Years: 2025

About Iresha Withanage

When I was a kid, I dreamed of becoming a doctor! I was fascinated by the cool gadget doctors wear around their necks (yep, the stethoscope!) – it made them look like superheroes to me. So, I decided to chase that dream, and guess what? I made it come true! 

I started my career working in a surgical ward, helping people through their operations. Then I moved to a children’s ward, where I cared for sick kids. It made me really sad to see children getting sick from things that could have been prevented. That’s when I discovered something amazing: public health! It’s a field of medicine that helps people stay healthy before they get sick. 

For the next six years, I worked as a public health doctor, helping people live healthier lives by eating better, moving more, and making smart choices. But I realised that changing habits can be really hard. So, I studied psychology to understand how people think and how to help them make better decisions. 

I have also done some exciting research. I studied how teenagers’ feelings and behaviours affect their school life, and I even created a tool to help doctors find women at risk of a type of cancer called endometrial carcinoma. Now, I’m in Tasmania, learning more about how to help people stay heart-healthy by walking, cycling, and using active transport. I want to find fun ways to help both kids and adults move more and feel great! 

When I’m not working, I love exploring nature, trying new foods, and listening to music. Life is an adventure, and I’m always curious to learn more. So, if you have ever dreamed of helping people, exploring science, or even just wearing a stethoscope – go for it! You never know where your dreams might take you. 

Iresha's Photo Gallery