Volunteer Spotlight: How Thirumagal Kanagasabai Is Advancing Global Health Education at Public Health U

At Public Health U, our volunteers are the vital link connecting aspiring health professionals around the world with PHU’s educational resources. They bridge geographic, cultural, and disciplinary boundaries, helping learners from diverse backgrounds engage with our course materials, navigate complex public health concepts, and apply their learning to real-world challenges. This month, we proudly highlight Thirumagal Kanagasabai, whose academic and research achievements reflect her deep commitment to advancing public health.

 

Since 2021, Thirumagal has served as a tutor, bringing her passion for volunteering to support a wide range of modules. Her contributions span across our Master’s in Public Health courses, including Introduction to Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Environmental Health and Disaster Management, and Emergency Planning, as well as Ph.D. courses such as Grant and Academic Writing, Environmental Health, and Research Methods and Research Ethics. Here’s what Thirumagal Kanagasabai had to say about her experience with volunteering at Public Health U. 

Question 1: Please introduce yourself and describe your professional background or area of specialization.

“My research experience spans toxicology, infectious disease, epidemiology, and mental health. I completed undergraduate and master’s degrees in toxicology at the University of Toronto and worked in infectious disease research between degrees. I then pursued a PhD in cardiometabolic epidemiology, examining how sleep, physical activity, and dietary micronutrients influence cardiometabolic health. As a postdoctoral fellow in environmental epidemiology, I studied the effects of air pollution on heart and kidney function. Across these fields, my work focuses on the interconnected impact of lifestyle and environmental factors on overall health.”
Dr. Thirumagal Kanagasabai

Question 2: What motivated you to join PHU’s volunteer program?

“I was motivated to join PHU’s volunteer program because its mission deeply aligns with my values and sense of purpose. I believe that education is one of the most powerful tools for creating lasting change—it uplifts individuals, transforms communities, and promotes equity across society. In an ideal world, everyone would have equal access to quality education, yet this remains out of reach for many, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. PHU’s commitment to bridging that gap through accredited graduate-level programs, in partnership with EUCLID and the Foundation for Professional Development, is both impactful and inspiring. Being part of this mission allows me to contribute meaningfully to something I strongly believe in.”
Dr. Thirumagal Kanagasabai

Question 3: What have you enjoyed most about volunteering with PHU?

“What I’ve enjoyed most about volunteering with PHU is the opportunity to lead and collaborate with dedicated volunteers, administrators, and students from around the world. Each session I teach is a learning experience for me as well—the students’ diverse backgrounds and the unique challenges they face in their countries and work environments offer valuable insights and perspectives. This exchange of knowledge and experiences makes the work incredibly meaningful and enriching.”
Dr. Thirumagal Kanagasabai

Question 4: Can you share a particularly memorable moment or interaction you’ve had while supporting our students?

“Recently, a few students submitted outstanding grant proposals for their hypothetical studies, demonstrating a level of thoughtfulness and effort that truly impressed me. Their work exceeded expectations and even surpassed some real grant applications I’ve read—and written—throughout my career. It was a powerful reminder of the talent and potential that exists globally when people are given the right tools and opportunities.”
Dr. Thirumagal Kanagasabai

Question 5: How has your volunteer experience with PHU contributed to your professional or personal growth?

“Volunteering with PHU has expanded my perspective on global education and deepened my commitment to educational equity. I often share PHU’s mission with colleagues and peers in Canada and the U.S., who are often surprised—and inspired—to learn that such accredited, accessible programs exist. In contrast to the high-cost, business-oriented model of education in many developed countries, PHU’s approach reminds me that education can and should also be a humanitarian effort. This experience has reinforced my belief in the transformative power of education and inspired me to advocate more actively for inclusive, affordable learning opportunities.”
Dr. Thirumagal Kanagasabai

Question 6:  In one sentence, how would you describe the PHU volunteer community?

“A supportive community of like-minded individuals united by a shared commitment to expanding access to quality higher education.”
Dr. Thirumagal Kanagasabai

Thirumagal’s story is a testament to the impact one volunteer can make through our volunteer program. By supporting learners and sharing your knowledge, you can join her and other dedicated volunteers in shaping the next generation of health professionals through our Master’s in Public Health, Master of Education for Health Professionals, and Ph.D. in Global Health programs. With the new semester beginning in September, now is the perfect time to make a lasting global impact. Join PHU’s volunteer network and inspire future public health leaders worldwide. Apply now for the September semester!

 

Volunteer form: https://mphcourses.nextgenu.org/course/tutor_registration.php 

Reisha Narine

Author