Helyn Thami da Silva

My Graduate Story

My name is Helyn Thami da Silva and I completed a MSc Health Care Management and Policy, specialising in Quality Management.

I currently work as CEO and Chief Consultant for the HT Group. I previously spearheaded the CoronaCidades platform, which provided critical support to over 1,000 municipalities in managing the COVID-19 crisis. This initiative significantly impacted the lives of more than 20 million Brazilians and garnered substantial attention from both national and international media at the time.

A Day in my Life

In my current capacity, my daily routine is primarily divided between project management meetings and internal team discussions. These meetings are crucial for ensuring that we deliver optimal value to all our clients, regardless of the challenges they face. I am committed to maintaining high standards of excellence in every aspect of our consultancy services.

Additionally, a significant portion of my time is dedicated to planning future projects. This involves the strategic recruitment and fitting of teams to align with the specific needs and goals of upcoming initiatives. I also engage in meetings with key industry players to both prospect for new projects and nurture ongoing relationships, which are vital for sustaining and expanding our consultancy's impact.

Furthermore, I allocate time to study and map innovative initiatives within the health sector. This continuous learning and exploration allow me to identify emerging trends and opportunities that can be leveraged to benefit our clients and contribute to the advancement of healthcare solutions.

My Journey to the HT Group

Following the completion of my master's degree, I was immediately recruited by a leading health think tank, currently the largest of its kind in Brazil. In my capacity there, I served as a technical leader for numerous high-impact initiatives.

Subsequently, I coordinated the organization's content and communication efforts, focusing on the production and dissemination of academic knowledge concerning Brazil's healthcare system and proposing viable solutions to enhance its effectiveness. After nearly three years, I embarked on an entrepreneurial journey by founding my own consulting group after also working as an International Consultant at the Pan American Health Organization headquarters. Operating as a boutique consultancy, my team and I assist major health sector companies, governments, and third-sector organizations in improving quality indicators, delivering greater value to beneficiaries, creating innovative health campaigns, and enhancing the longevity and quality of life of millions of individuals.

My Birmingham Experience

The master's program was absolutely pivotal in shaping my career trajectory thereafter. The course provided a comprehensive blend of learning that spanned from policy to management, a mix that is challenging to find in my home country. This diverse educational foundation enabled me to effectively influence public policies while ensuring excellence and innovation in the implementation of health initiatives, whether in the public, private, or third sector.

Healthcare management is a burgeoning field in Brazil, with increasing demand for professionals possessing a profile similar to mine. The master's program positioned me favourably in the current market landscape, enhancing my career prospects significantly.

Moreover, the course offered practical learning opportunities, which are highly valued in the consultancy market. This hands-on experience proved invaluable, equipping me with the skills and insights necessary to excel in my field.

Birmingham's Impact

The University of Birmingham provided exceptional support services that were instrumental in preparing me for my career. These services encompassed a wide range of offerings, from networking support to assistance with resume development. Such resources were invaluable in helping me navigate the transition from academic life to the professional world.

Particularly beneficial was the emphasis on self-awareness encouraged by the university. This focus enabled me to craft a unique and effective personal pitch, as well as develop my CV and other professional materials from a distinct perspective. This approach allowed me to stand out in the competitive job market, showcasing my strengths and capabilities in a compelling way.

My Achievements

One of my most significant achievements during the course was gaining recognition from a prominent figure in Brazilian philanthropy, despite not actively seeking employment at the time. This recognition was a result of my active participation and presentation of ideas in high-level health leadership forums, as well as effectively using my networks to disseminate these ideas.

Additionally, I had the honour of being interviewed by one of the most popular podcasts in Brazil to discuss COVID-19 management. This opportunity allowed me to share my insights and contribute to the broader discourse on public health during a critical time.

On a personal level, I mastered self-learning techniques, which have proven applicable to all areas of my life. This skill has empowered me to continuously adapt and grow, both professionally and personally.

Furthermore, the course significantly enhanced my critical skills in analysing health policies. This improvement has been invaluable in enabling me to evaluate and influence policy decisions effectively, contributing to my professional development and impact in the field.

Advice for Students

Invest in Self-Discovery: No investment of time and money in self-knowledge is ever too much. Understanding your strengths and potential is crucial for building a solid career foundation. A strong professional narrative begins with this self-awareness and can guide you in leveraging your unique abilities.

Cultivate Genuine Networking: Networking is invaluable, but it should stem from a genuine interest in what your peers are doing. Learning to invest in relationships is essential, and ultimately, the quality of your connections is more important than the quantity. Authentic engagement can lead to meaningful opportunities.

Utilize University Services: Take full advantage of the services available at the university. The University of Birmingham offers cutting-edge support for both academic and career development. Engaging with these resources can provide a significant advantage as you transition into the workforce.

Embrace Campus Life Beyond Classes: Make the most of campus life beyond academics. The diverse and welcoming environment of the university is conducive to socialization and broadening your horizons beyond scholarly or professional pursuits.

Build Your Future from Your Present: You construct your next position from your current one. Work on developing the key skills needed for your future goals today. Connect with the people who can influence your path today. Being proactive in your current role sets the stage for future success.