Celebrating Wellness at PHU: Spotlight on MPH Student, Rita Anaba

World Wellness Week is a global initiative that reminds us of the importance of balance, caring for our health, nurturing our communities, and creating sustainable practices that support overall well-being. At Public Health U (PHU), this mission resonates deeply with our commitment to empowering health professionals around the world through education and collaboration.

 

This year, we highlight one of our Master of Public Health students, Rita Anaba, a dedicated public health professional who exemplifies the spirit of wellness and resilience. Rita is currently making a significant impact in her role with the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI) in Nigeria, where she supports the integration and scale-up of primary healthcare interventions, coordinates training programs, and strengthens health systems to improve equitable access to quality care across communities. What makes Rita’s journey inspiring is how she balances the multiple dimensions of her life, her demanding career, her studies at PHU, and her own self-care. Here’s what Rita had to say about how she maintains balance while studying, working, and engaging with her community.

Question: What does wellness mean to you in your personal and professional life?

“Wellness, to me, means finding harmony in all aspects of life: physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. Personally, it is about creating space for rest, reflection, and relationships. Professionally, wellness is essential for clarity of thought, compassion in service, and sustaining impact. It is not a destination but a daily commitment.”
Rita Anaba

Question: How do your wellness practices support or reflect your broader goals in public health or your desire to improve the well-being of your community?

“My wellness practices, like early morning reflections, mindful breaks, and regular exercise, help me stay grounded, focused, and resilient. These habits exemplify the importance of self-care, particularly for healthcare workers and advocates in high-pressure roles. When I am well, I show up stronger for the communities I serve and can better champion holistic approaches to public health.”
Rita Anaba

Question: How do you maintain work–life–study balance while pursuing your studies at PHU?

“Balancing work, life, and study takes intention. I use time-blocking to prioritise tasks, set realistic study goals, and carve out daily ‘quiet time’ for reflection or family. I also lean on accountability partners and take guilt-free rest when needed, because balance is not just about productivity; it is about peace.”
Rita Anaba

Question: How has PHU’s flexible, self-paced model supported your mental or physical well-being?

“PHU’s flexible, self-paced model has been a game-changer. It allows me to learn at my own rhythm, integrate coursework into my routine, and adapt my study flow during intense work periods. The autonomy has reduced stress, enhanced learning retention, and supported both my mental focus and physical health.”
Rita Anaba

Question: How do you manage stress or burnout during demanding study periods or deadlines?

“When study demands peak, I manage stress by breaking tasks into smaller, achievable goals and incorporating short wellness breaks, whether it is a walk, prayer, or journaling. I also use mindfulness and positive self-talk to reframe pressure as an opportunity to grow rather than a burden to bear. Connecting with peers and mentors also provides invaluable encouragement.”
Rita Anaba

Question: How can public health programs like PHU better support learners’ wellness in the future?

“Public health programs like PHU can support learners by fostering virtual wellness communities, offering more mental health resources, and promoting peer-to-peer engagement. Regular check-ins, wellness-themed webinars, and mentorship initiatives can also empower students to thrive both academically and personally.”
Rita Anaba

We are proud to support students like Rita who are not only advancing their education but also transforming health outcomes in their communities. Rita’s journey inspires us to reaffirm our shared commitment to education, equity, and holistic well-being. Her story reminds us that true wellness goes beyond professional success; it is also about nurturing balance, growth, and personal well-being, both for ourselves and for the communities we serve.

 

At PHU, we emphasize the importance of wellness for our students, encouraging them to manage their time wisely, keep track of deadlines and course calendars, take breaks when needed, and prioritize self-care. We recognize that our learners lead busy, demanding lives, and we urge them to make space for themselves as they continue their important work in public health.

“Public health professionals are guardians of both health and hope—caring for others begins with caring for ourselves.”

Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO).