Rooted & Rising – Episode 4
In Episode 4 of Rooted & Rising, co-hosts Susan Cole and Dr Vanessa Apea are joined by Dr Melvina Woode Owusu, an Honorary Associate Professor at UCL’s Institute for Global Health, epidemiologist and medical anthropologist specialising in research impact and equity-informed implementation.
Together, they explored what UK data tells us about HIV among Black women, why longstanding awareness of these inequalities has not always led to action, and what genuine co-production looks like in practice. Melvina shared her expertise on the importance of representation, accountability and shared power, as well as what the current retreat from equity and inclusion commitments could mean for Black women, including those affected by HIV.
The conversation also included Susan’s reflections from AIDS 2026 on Black women’s leadership in the global HIV response, and Vanessa’s work with Positive East to deliver on-demand PrEP in community settings
This episode was streamed live on Monday 10th August 2026, 5–5.30pm
