expert Patient Advocacy Academy

You can change kidney health in your country.

The GloPAKH Expert Patient Advocacy Academy is a global training program for patients living with chronic and rare kidney disease who want to build their advocacy skills and influence health policy in their countries. Through a series of interactive virtual sessions, participants learn directly from global kidney health leaders, gaining the tools and knowledge to engage policymakers, navigate the policy landscape, and drive meaningful change for their communities.

Since its launch in 2024, the Academy has welcomed 41 chronic and rare kidney disease patients and caregivers from 24 countries and has grown into a worldwide network of patient advocates working to elevate the patient voice in kidney health policy.

Why Join

• Learn proven advocacy strategies from global kidney health leaders
• Build skills to engage policymakers and influence real change
• Connect with a worldwide community of kidney disease advocates
• Represent the patient voice on the global stage

Program Structure

This year’s Academy takes place across three virtual sessions:

• September 1 — The Global Context of Kidney Disease Policy Advocacy
• September 15 — Effective Policymaker Advocacy
• September 29 — Practicing Effective Policymaker Engagement

Who Should Apply

The Academy is open to patients living with chronic or rare kidney disease who are ready to build advocacy skills in their communities. You can apply directly, or nominate someone you believe would be a strong fit.

The deadline for nominations is August 15.