Pediatric Oncology Trailblazers: 14 Women Leaders Transforming Hope into Action

Progress is seldom linear—and for many women in global pediatric oncology, the journey has meant breaking barriers, challenging norms, and uplifting countless lives along the way. The 14 Women Leaders in Pediatric Oncology featured in the SIOP 2025 Almanac are more than trailblazers—they are compassionate pioneers, visionaries, and architects of a future where every child with cancer has a better chance.

The 2025 SIOP Almanac of Women Leaders in Paediatric Oncology celebrates inspiring women from around the world who are making a difference in childhood cancer care. From doctors and nurses to researchers and psychosocial experts, these leaders are breaking barriers, driving innovation, and improving lives. Their stories, now featured by the International Society of Paediatric Oncology (SIOP), highlight courage, compassion, and dedication—offering hope and motivation for the next generation of healthcare professionals.

This tribute honors their legacies, struggles, and unwavering commitment to a world where pediatric cancer care is more equitable, innovative, and humane.

When Vision Meets Dedication: Leading with Heart and Science

Dr. Patricia Morris Jones (UK)

A founding figure in modern pediatric oncology, Dr. Morris Jones co-created the UK Children’s Cancer Study Group and reshaped care with advancements in chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Her holistic, family-centered approach left a permanent mark on treatment protocols and patient support systems. Even after her passing in 2020, her spirit lives on in every family-centered care model and young physician she mentored.

Dr. Lillian Sung (Canada)
At Toronto’s Hospital for Sick Children, Dr. Sung seamlessly blends data science, machine learning, and clinical epidemiology to enhance supportive care. Known for her mentorship and leadership in clinical trials, she teaches us that progress is often born from failure—and that innovation requires courage and consistency.

Dr. Elizabeth Molyneux (Malawi/UK)
Over three decades in Malawi, Dr. Molyneux brought emergency pediatric care and Africa’s first pediatric palliative care unit into existence. Her mantra for young professionals: embrace joy in the journey and never underestimate the power of quiet, steady leadership.

Dr. Mithra Ghalibafian (Iran)
A visionary in radiation oncology, Dr. Ghalibafian established Iran’s first pediatric radiotherapy center. She continues to dismantle stigma around pediatric cancer through relentless advocacy and multidisciplinary collaboration, proving that progress in the face of adversity is not just possible—it’s necessary.

Stories Rooted in Community and Culture

Rosemary Sanz (Brazil)
Once a classical ballet dancer, Rosemary founded a leading pediatric cancer hospital—GACC Vale do Paraíba—offering 100% free care. Her leap from the stage to the healthcare frontlines redefined community-driven leadership. Through passion and purpose, she created a multidisciplinary haven that’s now a regional model of excellence.

Dr. Naureen Mushtaq (Pakistan)
A national pioneer in pediatric neuro-oncology, Dr. Mushtaq leads transformative change through training, diagnostics, and global partnerships. Her empathy-led approach and international collaborations have not only improved survival rates but also built lasting institutional capacity in Pakistan.

Dr. Julia Challinor (Global)
From Africa to Asia and Latin America, Dr. Challinor empowers pediatric oncology nurses through training and advocacy. A professor, anthropologist, and nurse, she believes in strength-based teamwork and respect—reminding us that nurse-led leadership is essential to sustainable global care.

Dr. Lori Wiener (USA)
Dr. Wiener transformed pediatric psycho-oncology through pioneering research in grief, palliative care, and adolescent communication tools. A prolific author and mentor, she reminds the world that cancer care must include emotional and psychological healing—not just physical treatment.

When Personal Passion Becomes Global Impact

Dr. Marianne Phillips (Australia/UK)
A dual-trained oncologist and palliative care expert, Dr. Phillips launched adolescent oncology services and championed cancer care in conflict zones. Her work turns pain into progress, and her legacy underscores that palliative care is not a privilege—it’s a human right.

Morgan Livingstone (Global)
With therapeutic play and home-based care, Morgan is rewriting how psychosocial services reach children with cancer. Through World Eye Cancer Hope, she supports families navigating retinoblastoma, proving that joy, presence, and purpose can transform fear into healing.

Dr. Florencia Moreno (Argentina)
Founder of Argentina’s national pediatric cancer registry (ROHA), Dr. Moreno is a data-driven force for health equity. Her mantra—“Acredita que Acontece” (Believe and it will happen)—embodies her tenacious advocacy, which blends policy reform with heartfelt persistence.

Shauna Georgia Odongo Arao (Uganda/UK)
A pharmacist and researcher, Shauna is revolutionizing pediatric oncology pharmacy across Africa. As the founder of the African Pediatric Oncology Pharmacy Group, her leadership is precision-focused, patient-centered, and deeply rooted in advocacy and access.

The Courage to Build in Crisis

Dr. Zeena Salman (Global)
From Gaza to Ukraine, Dr. Salman’s mission is to build pediatric cancer care in the most fragile regions of the world. Despite heartbreaking setbacks, like the bombing of the Gaza cancer center she helped establish, her compassion and resilience continue to inspire. Her nonprofit, HEAL Palestine, is a lifeline for children in war-torn regions—proving that even in darkness, healing is possible.

Dr. Pam Kearns (UK)
An international leader in clinical trials, Dr. Kearns has propelled new drug development through her leadership with CRUK, SIOPE, and ITCC. Her advocacy for women in medicine and oncology pharmacists is paving a path for more inclusive, culturally aware systems of care.

A Legacy of Strength and Inspiration

These women didn’t just advance science—they changed the way we deliver, teach, and experience pediatric oncology. Through their relentless efforts, they’ve created support systems, treatments, and institutions that will impact generations to come.

Their stories are proof that leadership is not defined by titles or power—but by action, heart, and an unshakable belief that better is always possible.

Let’s Keep the Momentum Going as these women have changed lives—and their stories deserve to be heard.

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Photo credit: SIOP Europe/X

By: Md Foorquan Hashmi, MD, Sr. Editor, OncoDaily: India Bueura