Founder of Health Systems Matter
Urban Public Health Anthropologist | Health System Activist | Aspiring Writer
I am Monaemul Islam Sizear, widely known as Sizear. Public health is my profession, passion, and purpose by choice. My mission is to advance public health through evidence-based approaches and stronger health systems. To support this commitment, I initiated the Health Systems Matter platform, leveraging a website and social media to promote and disseminate critical public health issues. I also contribute public health columns to national newspapers and blogs, and have published research in peer-reviewed journals.
I firmly realize that poor health outcomes are deeply rooted in low education levels, socio-economic disparities, structural inequalities, and weak governance. To address these complexities, I have pursued a multidisciplinary academic journey, combining studies in Anthropology, Public Health, and Urban Development Policy across institutions in Bangladesh and the Netherlands. This diverse expertise equips me to design holistic, innovative solutions to tackle global health challenges.
Sizear is a health systems advocate who aspires to be a global health champion, committed to transforming lives.
Letโs build a healthier future together!
I am a public health policy and system strengthening professional with over 12 years of progressive experience in program design, management, and implementation research across both national and international platforms. Most recently, I served as a Technical Advisor at Open Development, a U.S.-based international organization, where I contributed to a global initiative. This project focuses on enhancing health systems through strategic policy reforms and regulatory innovations.
My professional interests lie at the intersection of health systems, public financial management, policy analysis, public-private partnerships, health-seeking behavior, systems thinking, and human-centered design. I am particularly focused on leveraging these disciplines to inform and shape effective health policies that address the needs of populations in complex and rapidly urbanizing settings.
I firmly believe that health interventions, in isolation, are insufficient to achieve lasting transformation. As an advocate for holistic, system-based approaches, I actively engage in public health activism. My initiative, Health Systems Matter, reflects my commitment to contributing as a confident global health system professional while also supporting and complementing the growth of emerging professionals in the field. In parallel, I serve as the Organizing Secretary of the Public Health Foundation of Bangladesh (PHFBD), a leading institution dedicated to advancing evidence-informed public health practices and fostering national dialogue on emerging health issues.
Through my multi-faceted roles, I strive to leverage evidence, systems thinking, and cross-sectoral collaboration to address pressing health challenges and co-create sustainable, people-centered solutions that leave a lasting societal impact.
Open Development
January 2023 โ March 2025
ThinkWell Global
November 2021 โ December 2022
WaterAid
August 2018 โ September 2020
Sajida Foundation
February 2017 โ July 2018
Sajida Foundation
March 2015 โ January 2017
icddr,b
January 2015 โ February 2015
NGO Forum for Public Health
November 2012 โ July 2013
Bangladesh Agricultural Resource Center for Indigenous Knowledge (BARCIK)
February 2011 โ January 2012
My expertise in knowledge generation spans several disciplines, starting with a foundation in Anthropology from University of Rajshahi. I furthered my education with two master's degrees: one in Public Health from the James P. Grant School of Public Health as a USAID Scholar, and another in Urban Policy & Development from Erasmus University Rotterdam in the Netherlands as a World Bank Scholar. As a dedicated knowledge seeker and passionate public health professional, I stay current with the latest developments in my field. Recently, I completed a three-week, 4-credit on-site course in Health Policy and Financing at the KIT Royal Tropical Institute in the Netherlands. Additionally, I continuously enhance my expertise through various online courses.
Health Policy and Financing
KIT Royal Tropical Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, the Netherlands
A three-week, three-credit, on-site short certificate course focused on health policy and financing strategies.
Master of Science (MSc) in Urban Management and Development
Erasmus University Rotterdam, Netherlands
A master's program emphasizing urban management, planning, and development policies.
Master of Public Health (MPH)
James P Grant School of Public Health, BRAC University, Bangladesh
Specialized in public health, covering epidemiology, health policy, and community health interventions.
Master of Social Science (MSS) in Anthropology
University of Rajshahi, Bangladesh
Focused on social research, cultural anthropology, and human behavior analysis.
Bachelor of Social Science (BSS) in Anthropology
University of Rajshahi, Bangladesh
Undergraduate studies in anthropology with an emphasis on social structures and ethnographic research.
My research and professional interests encompass health systems and financing, environmental health, and health-seeking behavior. In the context of growing urbanization and increasingly complex health service delivery, my work emphasizes public financial management, the role of the private sector, and human-centered design. These elements are critical for rethinking and formulating comprehensive urban health policies aimed at building sustainable and resilient health systems. I also engage in research to understand complex health sector challenges and generate evidence to support government initiatives through targeted advocacy.
An integral and fulfilling aspect of my public health journey involves conducting research to understand complex health sector challenges and generate evidence that supports government initiatives through targeted advocacy. I have contributed as both first author and co-author to numerous scholarly publications featured in reputable, peer-reviewed journals.
International Journal of Public Health Science (IJPHS) Vol. 12, No. 1.
https://doi.org/10.11591/ijphs.v12i1.21787Frontiers in Global Womenโs Health, Volume 5
https://doi.org/10.3389/fgwh.2024.1365504Throughout my extensive academic and professional journey, I have been honored with various recognitions for my work. While these achievements may appear modest, each one represents a significant milestone earned through dedication and effort. Below, you can view highlights of these accomplishments and awards.
2020-21
For Masters in Erasmus University Rotterdam, The Netherlands
2017-18
Awarded and funded by Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA)
2014-15
Funded by USAID for MPH program in James P Grant School of Public Health, BRAC University, Bangladesh
2024
Received in a nationwide competition organized by UNFPA and Prothom Alo.
๐ Year: 2025
๐ข 10th International Public Health Conference
๐ Organized by: Public Health Foundation Bangladesh & TMSS Medical College
๐ Year: 2024
๐ข International Public Health Conference
๐ Organized by: Public Health Association of Bangladesh
๐ Year: 2023
๐ข 9th International Public Health Conference
๐ Organized by: Public Health Foundation Bangladesh
๐ Year: 2022
๐ข 9th Regional Public Health Conference
๐ Organized by: Bangladesh University of Health Professionals
๐ Year: 2024
๐ข 10th International Public Health Conference
๐ Organized by: Public Health Foundation Bangladesh & TMSS Medical College
๐ Year: 2009
๐ข National Debate Festival
๐ Organized by: National Debate Federation of Bangladesh
James P Grant School of Public Health
2025
James P Grant School of Public Health
2023
icddr,b
2023
CPSD, James P Grant School of Public Health
2023
NIRAS & WaterAid
Sweden (2017) & Cambodia (2018)
WaterAid Bangladesh
2018
MDF Bangladesh
2018
WHO, UNICEF & James P Grant School of Public Health
2017
James P Grant School of Public Health
2014
International Institute for Primary Health Care, Ethiopia and Johns Hopkins Bloomberg University
2025
Johns Hopkins University
2024
IDEO (Five-week course)
2024
The University of Tokyo
2022
State University of New York
2020
University of Virginia
2020
Johns Hopkins University
2020
Erasmus University
2020
University of Geneva
2019
As a passionate public health leader, I serve as the Organizing Secretary of the Public Health Foundation of Bangladesh (PHFBD), a key organization promoting evidence-based public health knowledge nationally. I played a pivotal role in organizing the 8th, 9th, and 10th International Public Health Conferences in 2021, 2023, and 2024, along with several national and international events. Additionally, I am an active member of Health Systems Global, the Public Health Association of Bangladesh, and the Alliance for Health Reforms.
ID: PHFBD-GM-044
Public Health Foundation Bangladesh
A key volunteer entity in Bangladesh connecting public health professionals to promote public health issues.
ID: 70096085
Health System Global
A society that convenes researchers, policymakers, and implementers worldwide to develop the field of health systems.
Alliance for Health Reforms
An entity of public health experts and emerging professionals dedicated to strengthening Bangladeshโs health system through reform.
Public Health Association of Bangladesh
A volunteer platform advocating with the government to improve Bangladesh's public health scenario.
Beyond academic publications, I regularly contribute columns and opinion pieces to newspapers and various platforms, addressing critical public health and social issues. As a passionate traveler, I have also documented my journeys and published a collection of travel essays in book form. My work spans the following categories:
Bangladesh struggles to achieve 2035 tuberculosis elimination goal
The Business Standard (TBS)
How government can utilise the private sector to improve Bangladeshโs health
The Business Standard (TBS)
Climate change means more tuberculosis in Bangladesh
The Business Standard (TBS)
Resource Allocation Formula could address our poor health budget utilisation
The Business Standard (TBS)
Why health budget remains underutilised and how it can be remedied
The Business Standard (TBS)
Public health literacy: The key to a healthier society
The Business Standard (TBS)
Breastfeeding: How dubious advertising tricked us into thinking formula is better
The Business Standard (TBS)
Health for all: An overarching but ultimate goal for World Health Day 2023
The Business Standard (TBS)
Triumphs and challenges of the tuberculosis programme in Bangladesh
The Business Standard (TBS)
Learning from Sweden: A contextualised approach to deal with an unprecedented situation
The Business Standard (TBS)
How to get the fully-funded scholarship
The Business Standard
I have an established media presence, particularly in Bangladesh, where I address topics such as public health, conferences, leadership, the debate movement, and career development. I also facilitate events and sessions aimed at supporting early-career professionals.
Below are some key highlights showcasing my appearances across various media outlets and platforms, with a focus on my academic and professional expertise.
เงงเงซ เฆกเฆฟเฆธเงเฆฎเงเฆฌเฆฐ เงจเงฆเงจเงช | Channel 24
เงงเงจ เฆกเฆฟเฆธเงเฆฎเงเฆฌเฆฐ เงจเงฆเงจเงช | Channel 24
08 March 2022 | YouTube
Today, I am proud to embrace multiple roles in my life: Public Health Activist, Researcher, Writer, Organizer, Traveller, Explorer, Son, Husband, and Father. Each of these roles shapes me better. And I am grateful and happy to carry them all.
I was born into a typical Bangladeshi family, where high expectations shaped my childhood as an only child. Without strong guidance or role models in my broader family, I learned to dream and build a meaningful life on my own.
My perspective shifted during my undergraduate years, largely influenced by books. Hillary Clinton's autobiography, particularly her statement, "Learn from the world what you cannot learn from your parents," inspired my journey of self-discovery and lifelong learning. Since then, I have drawn knowledge and inspiration from books, relationships, nature, personal experiences, and formal education.
Academically, I earned three Master's degrees from international universities on scholarships. Yet, my most valuable lessons stem from practical experiences and observations. My transformationโfrom a guideless child to a public health professionalโis also the story of becoming an organizer, builder, and writer.
This journey has been filled with challenges and broken dreams, but my determination and resilience keep me moving forward. Two traits have defined my path. Patience during times of struggle, when I have little or nothing. Second, Attitude during times of abundance when life is generous.
I was born in Rajshahi, a small city in Bangladesh, as the only child in my family. My early years were spent there, where I created cherished memories. Though I was introverted and less mature at the time, these years laid the foundation for my journey ahead.
In 2006, I entered a transformative phase of life, marked by newfound mental freedom. University life was a turning point that shaped my aspirations and broadened my horizons. During this time, I began writing, debating, traveling, and dreaming. I completed my Bachelorโs and first Masterโs degrees in 2011, setting the stage for future pursuits.
After university, I began my professional career, a period marked by significant growth and milestones. I completed my second Masterโs degree, a defining achievement in my life. I worked with various national and international organizations in public health sector, gaining valuable experience, promotions, and opportunities for international travel and recognition. On a personal note, I married the love of my life, welcomed our first daughter, and endured the profound loss of my mother, whose absence I deeply feel to this day.
In 2020, I relocated to the Netherlands to pursue my third Masterโs degree during the challenging COVID-19 period. Living apart from my family, I developed resilience and selfreliance. This journey inspired me to write and publish a book. Upon returning to Bangladesh, I joined an international organization as a health systems researcher and later transitioned to another global entity, where Iโve worked with pride for over 26 months as a health systems expert. In 2022, the birth of my second daughter brought immense joy to our family. In 2024, I founded Health Systems Matter, a knowledge platform to advance my vision for impactful contributions in the health sector.
I am 38 years old, born and raised in Bangladesh.
I hold three masterโs degrees in Anthropology, Public Health, and Urban Development Policy, earned in Bangladesh and the Netherlands.
I am the founder of Health Systems Matter, a global health knowledge platform.
I was a national-level debater, winning several debate competitions.
I am an award-winning organizer, passionate about and skilled in event coordination.
I enjoy reading, writing, and publishing.
I am a globetrotter and a keen observer of life.
I am a blood donor.
I am a coffee enthusiast.
My family includes my wife, two daughters, and my father.
Exploring new places and cultures is a central aspect of my life. I have had the privilege of visiting over 100 cities across 11 countries. My wife and I prioritize creating extraordinary moments and enriching experiences through our travels, often valuing these experiences over saving money.
Europe: The Netherlands, Sweden, Germany, Denmark, France, Belgium, and Luxembourg
Asia: India, Cambodia, Malaysia, and Bangladesh
I prioritize spending quality time with my family to create meaningful moments. Outside of these moments, I enjoy reading a wide range of books, including autobiographies, travel literature, columns, and novels. Additionally, my profession allows me to travel both nationally and internationally, often with my family. As an Anthropology student, I am naturally inclined to observe people and their behaviors to gain a deeper understanding of life. Writing non-fiction is both my passion and a cherished hobby.
My family is my greatest source of energy and joy, and they always come first in my life. Our family includes my wonderful wife, our two super energetic daughters, and my father. My mother passed away in 2016, and her memory continues to inspire us. โค๏ธ
You can connect with me on LinkedIn or Facebook.
Feel free to reach out via email.
