Synergy One Health Expert
Our Mission & Objectives
At Synergy One Health Expert (SOHE), we are dedicated to improving health outcomes in South Africa’s rural communities through a holistic One Health approach. As a legally registered non-profit organization with its own corporate identity, SOHE works at the nexus of human, animal, and environmental health to deliver sustainable, community-driven solutions to complex health challenges.
We pursue public benefit through:
- Comprehensive prevention and control of zoonotic diseases
- Community-based health diagnostics and intervention
- Integrated veterinary and public health services
- Environmental health risk management
- Health education and community empowerment
We believe that effective health solutions reflect the interdependence of people, animals, and their environment. Through our programs, we aim to prevent disease, build community resilience, and promote sustainable wellbeing for all.
The One Health Approach
The One Health approach acknowledges that the health of humans, animals, and the environment are deeply interconnected. This approach is especially vital in rural South African settings, where close human-livestock-wildlife interactions and environmental factors influence community health.
By recognizing these interconnections, SOHE develops targeted strategies to:
- Prevent zoonotic disease transmission.
- Enhance food safety.
- Protect environmental health.
- Strengthen resilience to health threats.
Our multidisciplinary programs bring together veterinary scientists, epidemiologists, public health experts, and others to create comprehensive, long-term solutions that address root causes—not just symptoms.
Our Governance Structure
Synergy One Health Expert is overseen by a committed Board of Office Bearers who guide our strategic direction and operational integrity. Our governance model emphasizes accountability, transparency, and responsible stewardship of resources.
Board Composition
The Board comprises three key leadership roles:
Chairperson – Provides strategic leadership and chairs all meetings
Treasurer – Manages financial oversight and reporting
Secretary – Handles administration and organizational records.
Board members serve renewable three-year terms, elected for their expertise in zoonotic diseases and related health fields.
Election Procedures
Our constitution outlines a transparent election process:
Nominations are submitted 60 days prior to elections
Candidates must demonstrate expertise in zoonotic health
Elections are conducted via secret ballot
Annual General Meetings offer members a voice in shaping policies
Membership Categories
Our members play an essential role in advancing our mission. SOHE recognizes three membership categories that contribute uniquely to our work.
Who Can Join
Membership is open to professionals and organizations involved in zoonotic disease research, public health, and allied disciplines. Applicants must hold relevant qualifications in veterinary science, epidemiology, public health, or related areas.
Membership categories:
Full Members – Active professionals in One Health fields
Associate Members – Supporters and collaborators from related sectors
Research Affiliates – Academic and institutional research partners.
How Members Contribute
Members strengthen our mission through:
Sharing data and research insights
Assisting in disease outbreak responses
Supporting health education in rural communities
Participating in collaborative initiatives
Leading training and capacity-building programs
Legal Status
Synergy One Health Expert operates as a legally registered non-profit organization with its own corporate identity, independent of its members and office bearers. We maintain continuity regardless of changes in leadership or membership.
We are fully compliant with South African legal frameworks, upholding principles of good governance, transparency, and accountability in all our operations.
Join Our Mission
We invite professionals, organizations, and communities to collaborate with us in building healthier, more resilient rural communities through the One Health approach. Whether through membership, partnerships, or support, your involvement makes a lasting impact.
