I sat down with Louise Agersnap, the Head of WHO Innovation Hub, part of the Digital Health and Innovation Department, for a thought-provoking discussion on the transformative initiatives happening at the World Health Organization. With over 20 years of experience in global health development and innovation, Louise brings a wealth of knowledge and insights to the table.

The conversation kicks off with a reflection on the global health sector’s unique challenges and the critical need for innovative solutions. Recognizing this, WHO is empowering its teams to transition seamlessly from ideation to execution, with a nod to Kevin D’Silva and his team at Ideateplus for their role in fostering a culture of innovation.

Louise shares insights into the LEAD program, a groundbreaking initiative at WHO that empowers staff to drive impactful change through ideation, validation, and implementation. With over 250 ideas generated and 40+ projects in the pipeline, the LEAD program exemplifies the power of collaborative innovation in healthcare.

The discussion also delves into the role of storytelling in scaling innovation across 194 member states. Louise highlights the Herculean task of communicating and garnering support for innovative ideas globally, offering insights into crafting compelling narratives that inspire collaboration and drive progress.

We explore the importance of scalability and sustainability in fostering an innovation culture within WHO. With projects spanning 12 to 18 months, maintaining momentum and ensuring long-term impact are key priorities.

Louise Agersnap is an innovation and change leader with extensive experience and knowledge of global health, development, and the innovation ecosystem, acquired through 20+ years in the United Nations, private sector & government, NGO, and academia. 

Creativity and entrepreneurship are at the heart of everything she does, demonstrated by her track record of innovative initiatives throughout her career, leading innovation to promote sustainable development.

Name: Louise Agersnap
Title: Head of WHO Innovation HUB
Company: World Health Organization

LinkedIn  | World Health Organization | LinkedIn |

Louise is currently the Head of the Innovation Hub within the Department for Digital Health and Innovation at the World Health Organization, where she leads the strategy and implementation of WHO’s innovation in health work. She draws on her own social science academic training, artist background, and passion for positive transformation and impact.