As a palliative care specialist, Liza Manalo greatly values the impact of the scientific community on improving end-of-life care. Based in The Philippines, Manalo traveled to Salzburg in 2016 to participate in a seminar that centered on rethinking end-of-life care, gathering leading specialists to discuss their delicate, yet crucial work. The experience was life-changing for Manalo, allowing her to collaborate in new ways with doctors she may not have connected with if not for Salzburg Global Seminar.

“The learning experience was totally awesome and definitely inspiring…it made me want to be the best version of myself as a palliative care specialist,” Manalo said. “It was transformative in the way I looked at my field, the way I looked at doing things better to really make a difference in the lives of our patients and families, as well as inspiring other colleagues.”

Manalo developed long-lasting friendships while at Salzburg Global, which recently led to research surrounding the way oncology patients view cancer treatment and whether it improves their quality of life. Dr. Eric Finkelstein of the Lien Center connected with Manalo during a Salzburg Global session and together, they began a multi-country, multi-center research initiative that is expected to publish in the next year. This is why Manalo gives to Salzburg Global – so that others may find their own path to change the world.

“I believe in this whole concept of inspiring leadership…of really reaching out to as many people as possible and in whatever field we have chosen to really make a difference in the lives of people and the lives of nations, even,” Manalo said.

As the 75th anniversary approaches, Manalo hopes to see more collaborative relationships develop as a result of Salzburg Global. She believes true global solutions are at the fingertips of individuals from around the world who have yet to encounter one another and the groundbreaking ideas each can offer.

“I wish that Salzburg Global Seminar would be here not only for the next 75 years, but for decades and centuries,” Manalo said. “More people will find a difference in the way their chosen field is lived out, whether in their community, in their nation, or in the entire world.”