Gerard Filies

I am an Occupational Therapist and a dedicated full-time senior lecturer with 26 years extensive experience in interprofessional education and collaborative practice. Holding a B.Sc. in Occupational Therapy from the University of the Western Cape, an M.Phil. in Health Sciences Education from Stellenbosch University, and a Ph.D. in Child and Family Studies from the University of the Western Cape. As part of my PhD study, I have developed and implemented innovative education models to instill core competencies in allied health students.

As Chairperson of the Interprofessional Education Unit (IPEU) at the University of the Western Cape, I have spearheaded initiatives that align with Sustainable Development Goals 3 (Good Health and Wellbeing) and 4 (Quality Education). My leadership in the creation of South Africa's first Postgraduate Diploma in Interprofessional Education in Health underscores my commitment to addressing health inequalities through collaborative practice.

My contributions to global health education, including invitations to develop curricula at Nelson Mandela University, University of KwaZulu Natal, University of Cape Town, Universities of Missouri, and Winston Salem State University, which highlights my influence and dedication to future-proofing education and skills in diverse contexts. As Chairperson of the African Interprofessional Network (AfrIPEN) and active member of various global organizations such as Interprofessional Research.Global and The Network Towards Unity for Health (TUFH), I have fostered international partnerships that strive to advance Diversity, Equity and Inclusion with purpose (DEI+) in healthcare education.

My work with 3D printing innovation in interprofessional education and participation in the Interprofessional Education Collaborative (IPEC) in Washington further exemplify my forward-thinking approach and commitment to making impactful, inclusive changes in health education. My dedication to promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion in all my professional endeavors makes me a valuable asset to any DEI-focused team.

My life work promoting DEI+ through interprofessional education and collaborative practice has been acknowledged globally to the extent that I have been invited to serve on the following boards and committees:
Badisa Social Development Organisation (Kuils River, Cape Town)
o Position: Deputy Chairperson
o Period: 2023 – 2025
International Advisory Board for TVEPS - Centre for Interdisciplinary Work-Place Learning in Norway
o Position: Board Member
o Period: 2022 – 2024
Ghent University International Scientific Advisory Board: aiming at developing a core set of primary care competencies (to be translated into primary care entrustable professional activities for education) and describing the concept of ‘a primary care professional identity’
o Position: Advisory Board Member
o Period: 2023 – 2028
 

Head of department, senior lecturer, researcher, community developer, collaborator

B.Sc (Occupational Therapy)

M.Phil (Health ScEd)

PhD