I have a deep passion and understanding of public health and health systems. But where did my passion come from? As a professional, we are taught to be reflexive, “to be acutely tuned-in to your own experiences that may be influencing what one is trying to understand”. I remember, at a young age I was insightful, inquisitive, and thoughtful about health systems, and wanted to make a positive difference that would hopefully have a great impact as a result. Therefore, I pursued rigour in thinking in practice (i.e. volunteered at Hospice Niagara, Hotel Dieu Hospital - oncology), policy (i.e. conducted research in end-of-life quality of care) and academia (i.e. pursued courses in the area of health). To care about evidence-informed practice, further inspired me to pursue a rewarding career as a Public Health Epidemiologist Manager for over 12 years at a public health unit. In this capacity, I was very fortunate to have worked with dedicated public health professionals who demonstrated a deep commitment to public health practice, who were insightful about their organizations and community contexts. Indeed, it was my honour to have supported them in their important roles. Their many conversations about public health practice, further inspired my interest and commitment to pursue my academic studies (i.e. PhD in Public Health and Health Systems). Since the completion of my Ph.D. degree, I feel that I could make a further contribution in public health and health systems and translate this new knowledge in various settings from a realist perspective (what works, to whom, and under what circumstances). Specifically, my assumptions of the world, and how I know it, was further shaped by the development of new knowledge of implementation science, rural health, systems thinking, public health, evaluation, research etc. It is hoped that this new knowledge is seen as practical and useful to an organization. I approach tasks with optimism, integrity, self-confidence, humility, and inspire others to make a contribution to their optimal potential. Thanks to each of you. I look forward to our next journey together. Deanna White