WOMAN. DOCTOR. ADVOCATE.
Medical doctor and public health professional from Benin, working in women’s health, youth advocacy and health communication.
ABOUT DR CYNTHIA BODEA
I am a medical doctor with an MSc in Public Health from the University of Salford, UK, and a member of the Royal Society for Public Health (RSPH).
I come from Benin, home to the Agojie, the women warriors of Dahomey often known as the Amazons. Their legacy of courage and strength shapes the woman I am and the causes I choose to fight for.
I believe a woman should be able to seek help without shame, make informed choices about her body and live free from violence and coercion. Young people deserve a voice in the policies and services that shape their lives. These convictions are why I advocate for women and youth.
After more than five years in the UK, I returned to Africa to bring my training and experience closer to home. Through public health, health communication and my work with SAA/ICASA, I want to help women and young people find trustworthy information, seek support earlier and receive care with dignity.
FEATURED MODERATION / SAA
International Youth Day Dialogue
I moderated the Society for AIDS in Africa’s dialogue, “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations: Rethinking Prevention for Africa’s Youth.”
12 August 2026 · Society for AIDS in AfricaWatch on YouTubeFrom SAA & ICASA TV on YouTube. Press play to load the player.
PROJECTS
I’m developing Sayo, a digital health platform for young women to ask sensitive questions and find reliable information and support.
The planned pilot brings together a private AI-supported intake, optional review by verified health professionals and a community where users can take part under a pseudonym. It reflects my wider interest in making health information and support easier to reach.
CONTACT
For work, personal, Sayo and funding enquiries.