In November 2025, Global Drowning Prevention Leadership Institute (GDPLI) faculty, alumni, and fellows attended the World Conference on Drowning Prevention in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, engaging in events that highlighted research, policy, leadership, and skills development in drowning prevention. 

Panelists pose after delivering their session on Exploring Competencies for Drowning Prevention to Enable Positive Change. 

Dr. Richard Franklin (James Cook University) led a pre-conference Drowning Prevention Policy and Research Workshop, featuring an interactive program that brought together experts from diverse settings to explore drowning epidemiology, multisectoral strategies, implementation science, and policy development. GDPLI alumni, Dr. Frederick Oporia (Makerere University School of Public Health) and Dr. Colleen Saunders (University of Cape Town), among others, led sessions where participants engaged in case studies, discussions, and collaborative activities, building practical skills aimed at shaping the future of global drowning prevention. 

GDPLI alumni and fellows were joined by faculty and representatives from Bloomberg Philanthropies on November 22 for an Alumni Networking Breakfast, where they shared updates from their work and initiated new collaborations across the global network. 

Later that day, the team participated in a panel session on Exploring Competencies for Drowning Prevention to Enable Positive Change. The discussion focused on the skills, knowledge, and leadership attributes needed to strengthen global drowning prevention efforts. Moderated by Dr. Franklin, panelists included Dr. Abdulgafoor Bachani (Johns Hopkins International Injury Research Unit), Dr. Tessa Clemens (CDC Foundation), Kelly Larson (Bloomberg Philanthropies), Dr. Caroline Lukasyzk (World Health Organization), Dr. Frederick Oporia, and Dr. Justin Scarr (Royal Life Saving Society Australia). The panelists explored critical competencies, leadership styles, and emerging tools—including AI and technology—to equip the next generation of drowning prevention professionals. 

Participating in these sessions reaffirmed drowning prevention advocates’ commitment to advancing evidence-based strategies, leadership development, and international collaboration in the pursuit of safer waters worldwide.Â