Our monthly check-in with staff from around the world. Learn more about the people who work at CHAI.
Briony learning how to play the ‘Rindik’ (unsuccessfully) in Bali, Indonesia.
Briony Pasipanodya
Title: Program Manager, Health Financing
Location: Kenya
Start date: January 2016
Please tell us a bit about your background and what brought you to CHAI.
My background is in health financing and policy, with experience working across Africa to strengthen health systems and improve access to essential treatment and services. I first worked at CHAI between 2016 to 2019, where I worked with the HIV team, and rejoined CHAI in 2022 to work with the Health Financing/HSS team. I was drawn to CHAI because of its unique ability to combine technical rigor with a strong, problem-solving culture that directly supports governments to achieve ambitious health goals.
What’s the best thing about your job?
The best thing about my job is the opportunity to work hand-in-hand with governments and partners to solve complex health financing challenges that have a direct impact on people’s lives. I love that every day presents new questions that require both creativity and evidence-based solutions.
When do you feel most inspired by your work?
I feel most inspired when I see government counterparts using data and tools that we have co-developed to make real policy and budget decisions. Those moments—when analysis translates into action that strengthens primary healthcare, expands coverage, or secures critical funding—are reminders of why this work matters.
What are three words that describe you?
Curious, collaborative, and resilient.
If you could choose to do anything for a day, what would it be?
I would love to wake up, head to the airport, and take the first flight out. I would spend the day discovering a city with no plans, just curiosity and a camera. I would focus on exploring the city’s local markets and art spaces—meeting artisans, learning about their craft, and connecting over stories of creativity and culture.
