Ruth Ayarza
About Ruth Ayarza
Ruth Ayarza is an Implementation Manager at Sightsavers, with a background in managing international health projects, particularly focusing on neglected tropical diseases. She previously held various roles at the International HIV/AIDS Alliance, contributing to health systems strengthening in Latin America, the Caribbean, and Africa.
Current Role at Sightsavers
Ruth Ayarza serves as the Implementation Manager at Sightsavers, a role she has held since 2019. In this position, she focuses on managing and executing health-related projects, particularly those addressing neglected tropical diseases. Her work is based in Chippenham, Wiltshire, United Kingdom, where she contributes to the organization's mission of improving health and education for people with disabilities and neglected tropical diseases.
Previous Experience at International HIV/AIDS Alliance
Ruth Ayarza has extensive experience with the International HIV/AIDS Alliance, where she held several positions from 2004 to 2017. She began as a Senior Programme Officer, serving for six years, and later took on roles such as Regional Manager for Latin America and the Caribbean, Interim Regional Manager for West and Central Africa, and Head of Community and Health Systems Strengthening. Her time at the Alliance was marked by a focus on community health initiatives and regional program management.
Educational Background
Ruth Ayarza completed her Bachelor of Arts degree in English and French at the University at Buffalo from 1991 to 1995. She furthered her education by obtaining a Master of Arts degree from the University of Sussex in 1998. Her academic background has equipped her with strong communication skills and a comprehensive understanding of international health issues.
Involvement in the ASCEND Project
Ruth Ayarza has been actively involved in the ASCEND Project, which targets neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) in West and Central Africa. This project aims to improve health outcomes and strengthen health systems in regions affected by these diseases. Her role in this initiative highlights her commitment to addressing significant health challenges in underserved communities.
Regional Experience in Africa
Ruth Ayarza possesses substantial experience working in both West Africa and Central Africa, primarily through her involvement with the ASCEND Project and her previous roles at the International HIV/AIDS Alliance. This regional expertise has contributed to her understanding of the unique health challenges faced by these communities and has informed her approach to project implementation and management.