Meet the Speakers

Jón Sigfússon

Chairman of the Board at Planet Youth

Jón Sigfússon is the Chairman of Planet Youth, leading efforts to implement evidence-based, community-focused strategies to improve youth well-being through the Icelandic Prevention Model. With extensive experience in youth health promotion, Jón has coordinated numerous projects and shared his expertise as a speaker at international conferences, advocating for proven, effective prevention methods.

Dagur B. Eggertsson

Patron of Planet Youth, MP, and Former Mayor of Reykjavík

Dagur B. Eggertsson is an Icelandic politician and current Member of Parliament. He served as the Mayor of Reykjavík and was vice chairman of the Social Democratic Alliance from 2009 to 2013. First elected to the Reykjavík City Council in 2002, Dagur became mayor on October 16, 2007. A physician by education, he also holds a master’s degree in human rights and international law from the University of Lund in Sweden. Dagur played a key role in implementing the Icelandic Model in Reykjavík following the foundation of ICSRA.

Professor Ilona Kickbusch

DTH-Lab Director Founder and Chair of the Global Health Centre

Professor Ilona Kickbusch is a leading expert in global health and health promotion. As the founding director of the Global Health Centre in Geneva, she has played a pivotal role in shaping international health policies, including contributing to the WHO’s landmark Ottawa Charter for Health Promotion. A distinguished advisor to governments and organizations worldwide, Ilona’s work focuses on health governance, equity, and global health diplomacy. Her lifelong contributions to public health have earned her numerous accolades, cementing her status as a visionary leader in global health.

Dr. Páll Ríkharðsson

CEO of Planet Youth

Dr. Páll Ríkharðsson, CEO of Planet Youth, is a leading expert in service development and international primary prevention strategies. With a PhD in business and extensive experience across Europe, Páll has been instrumental in implementing the Icelandic Prevention Model globally, helping communities create healthier futures for youth.

Dr. Ingibjörg Eva Þórisdóttir

Chief Analytics and Advisory Officer

Dr. Ingibjorg Eva Thorisdottir is Planet Youth’s Chief Analytics and Advisory Officer. At Planet Youth, she ensures that the data collection runs smoothly and provides feedback to our partners. Her primary focus is on mental health, dissemination practices, and upstream prevention.

Dr. Álfgeir Kristjánsson

Professor at West Virginia University

Dr. Álfgeir Kristjánsson is a Professor of Public Health at West Virginia University and Center PI for the West Virginia Prevention Research Center. He earned his PhD in Social Medicine from the Karolinska Institute in Sweden and completed his postdoctoral fellowship at Columbia University. Dr. Kristjánsson has published extensively on adolescent behavioral development and the well-being of children and youth, with over 100 peer-reviewed manuscripts in public health, preventive medicine, and health education.

Dr. Mariano Montenegro

Director, Colombo Plan Office for Latin America & the Caribbean

Dr. Mariano Montenegro is a medical doctor and psychiatrist of University of Chile with an MSc in Substance Addiction (University Miguel Hernández Alicante, Valencia España y OEA/CICAD), and more than 30 years of experience in public policy and training in demand reduction, as well as clinical treatment of people with problems of drug use. He is currently Director of the Colombo Plan office for Latin America and the Caribbean and external trainer for the United Nations Office for Drugs and Crime in Vienna (UNODC), working as a trainer for policymakers in Latin America on demand reduction. Previously he was National Director of the National Service for Prevention and Rehabilitation of Drugs and Alcohol (SENDA), at the Chilean Ministry of the Interior, and from 2000-2010 Head of the Health, Treatment, Rehabilitation and Reintegration Unit, at the Chilean National Council for Drug Control (CONACE). Dr. Montenegro has participated as a consultant and expert in initiatives of international organizations working in the field of drugs, including OEA/CICAD, COPOLAD (European Cooperation with Latin America and the Caribbean) and Panamerican Health Organization (PAHO), and has advised numerous Latin American governments on demand reduction policy. He has vast experience training policymakers and practitioners throughout Latin America on a wide range of issues including , prevention, drug courts, models of treatment and rehabilitation, and dual pathology, among many others.

Dr. Johan Strijdom

Extraordinary professor in a research programme on gerontology at the North West University, South Africa.

Dr. Johan Strijdom is a Namibian who served as the Head of Division, Social Welfare, Vulnerable Groups and Drug Control in the Department of Social Affairs at the African Union Commission in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia for 11 years until his retirement. Before joining the AUC, he was the Regional Drug Control Officer at the SADC Secretariat, in Gaborone, Botswana from 2000-2004, and subsequently served as technical advisor on drug demand reduction to the Delegation of the EU Commission in Surinam from 2004-2006. Since his retirement, he has consulted on drug control, social protection, social policy, family policy and the social and solidarity economy, and is also involved as extraordinary professor in a research programme on gerontology at the North West University, South Africa.

Dr. Harvey Milkman

Senior Policy Advisor for Planet Youth

Harvey Milkman, PhD is Professor Emeritus, Department of Psychology, Metropolitan State University of Denver and Senior Policy Advisor to Planet Youth. He received Fulbright Scholar awards at the Departments of Psychology, Reykjavik University and The National University of Malaysia. He has been a consultant and featured speaker in Australia, Brazil, Iceland, The Netherlands, Peru, Turkey, Russia and Yugoslavia.  He is the author of numerous scholarly articles and books on substance use and criminal conduct.  His most recent book, Transcending Addictions: Embracing Natural Highs over Alcohol, Substance Use and Compulsive Behaviors” (Cognella Academic Publishers (2025) is a state-of-the-art exploration of the causes, consequences, treatment and prevention of substance use and behavioral addictions. 

Trevor Denhartogh

Executive Director, Undercurrent Youth Society

Trevor Denhartogh is the Executive Director of Undercurrent Youth Society in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia. Trevor is a dedicated advocate for systems change and youth substance use prevention with over three decades of experience working with young people. Undercurrent’s work spans community engagement, policy development, and program innovation, always striving to empower youth and create environments that foster long-term well-being. Driven by a commitment to community collaboration, evidence-based solutions, and equipped with the Icelandic Prevention Model, Undercurrent is inspiring hope in Cape Breton and creating a healthier future for children and youth.

Hon. Jenny Hill

Canadian Ambassador to Iceland

Hon. Jenny Hill is the Canadian Ambassador to Iceland, bringing extensive experience in international development and diplomacy. Since joining the Canadian International Development Agency in 2005, she has held key positions in Afghanistan, Ghana, Kenya, South Sudan, and Zambia. She holds a BA in Geography from the University of Victoria and an MA in Geography from the University of Toronto.

 

Salvör Nordal

The Ombudsman for Children in Iceland

Salvör Nordal has been the Ombudsman for Children in Iceland since 2017. She is a Phd in philosophy was until 2017 assistant professor and director of the Centre for Ethics at the University of Iceland. Since becoming the Ombudsman for Children she has been actively promoting children’s participation in democratic decision making. Dr. Nordal has published papers on various topics in bioethics and political philosophy with emphasis on privacy, enhancement, democracy, children’s rights and children’s and public participation in decision-making.

Patricia Ros Garcia

Regional Director for Spain and Latin America at Planet Youth

Patricia Ros Garcia is the Regional Director for Planet Youth in Spain and Latin America. She served as the Director of the Municipal Prevention Service of Addictions in Tarragona City Hall since 1991. Patricia is a clinical psychologist from the University of Barcelona (1986) and has a Master degree in psychotherapy of groups and organizations from the University of Deusto (Bilbao 1994).

Hon. Dr. Balaam Barugahara

The Minister of State for Youth and Child Affairs

Hon. Dr. Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi is Uganda’s State Minister for Gender, Labour, and Social Development (Children and Youth Affairs) and a distinguished entrepreneur. With a background in commerce and marketing, he has played a pivotal role in Uganda’s media and entertainment industry, founding multiple radio stations and organizing major events. His work extends into real estate, hospitality, and youth empowerment, with a strong focus on community development. A passionate advocate for economic growth and social progress, Hon. Dr. Barugahara brings valuable insight into youth engagement and sustainable development.

Dr. Adrian Sarbu

Planet Youth Regional Representative

 

Dr. Emanuel Adrian Sârbu is one of the oldest ambassadors of Planet Youth and also our regional representative of Planet Youth in Central and Eastern Europe. He works as Associate Professor of Sociology, Social Work, and Religious Studies at Bucharest University and also as the Head of Department for the Relation with the Civil Society and other Social Actors from the General Directorate of Social Welfare, Bucharest Municipality.

He holds a PhD in Sociology (2016) and a PhD in Theology (2010) and also has a background in Psychology, Philology (Romanian Literature), Management, and Human Resources. Adrian’s research agenda and interest are focused on suicide prevention, substance use, public policies, social welfare, social research, and counseling the disfavored categories. He is the ‚father’ of an academic discipline called ‚Integrative Suicidology’ and has authored or co-authored books, articles, and scientific studies in the fields of suicidology, sociology, social work, and theology/religious studies. He’s been a part of the Planet Youth team since 2008.

Matej Kosir

Chair, Vienna NGO Committee on Drugs (VNGOC)

Matej Košir has over 22 years of experience in prevention and advocacy related to alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs. He leads the Preventive Platform network in Slovenia and has contributed to over 25 European projects in health, justice, and education. As co-author of the European Prevention Curriculum (EUPC) and contributor to UNODC-WHO’s International Standards on Drug Use Prevention, Matej is a prominent leader in evidence-based prevention and international collaboration.

Kristina Sperkova

The international President of Movendi International

Kristina Sperkova is a psychologist and global advocate with over 20 years of experience in health promotion and substance use prevention. As the first female International President of Movendi International, she has led innovative efforts to address alcohol harm and promote comprehensive prevention strategies worldwide. Kristina is also a Planet Youth ambassador, dedicated to improving the lives of young people through evidence-based prevention.

Anna Bára Unnarsdóttir

Knowledge Specialist at Planet Youth

Anna Bára Unnarsdóttir is a knowledge specialist at Planet Youth, holding a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s in public health sciences from the University of Iceland. She previously served as a project manager and PhD student at the Centre of Public Health Sciences, University of Iceland, coordinating interdisciplinary international collaborations among nine research teams across six countries.

Zahra Hedges

CEO of Winning Scotland

Zahra Hedges is an accomplished leader and changemaker, recognised for her ability to inspire innovation and drive meaningful change. With a strong background in strategy, policy, and social impact, Zahra has spent her career working across sectors to create sustainable, people-focused solutions. She is passionate about empowering communities, fostering collaboration, and addressing complex challenges with creativity and purpose. Zahra is CEO of Winning Scotland, a charity that works with national partners to help children and young people to develop confidence and resilience

Margrét Lilja Guðmundsdóttir

Chief Knowledge Officer at Planet Youth

Margrét Lilja Guðmundsdóttir is a global expert in primary prevention, dedicated to transforming youth well-being through evidence-based strategies. As Chief Knowledge Officer at Planet Youth, she leads training and knowledge-sharing efforts, supporting communities worldwide in creating healthier environments for young people. A sought-after speaker, Margrét inspires with her passion and expertise.

Marta Kristín Hreiðarsdóttir

Head of information and Planning Department at the Reykjavík Metropolitan Police

Marta Kristín Hreiðarsdottir is a sociologist with a long-standing career at the Reykjavik Metropolitan Police, specializing in child welfare and working on various subjects related to children, prevention, domestic violence, and more. As of now, she holds the position of the head of the of Information and Planning Department at RMP.

Steinunn Sigurjónsdóttir

Planet Youth Data Analyst and Visualization Specialist

Steinunn Sigurjónsdóttir is a data analyst and visualization specialist at Planet Youth since 2021. Her role at Planet Youth focuses on report creation, data cleaning, and survey setup. She has degrees in BSc. Management Information Systems and MSc. Data Analytics from Kansas State University, where she was on a full soccer scholarship. Steinunn also has over 12-year experience coaching football at all age levels at Breidablik, Iceland’s largest youth club, where she grew up playing football.

Daði Rafnsson

Program manager of Menntaskólinn í Kópavogi‘s Dual Career sports program

Daði Rafnsson is the program manager of Menntaskólinn í Kópavogi‘s Dual Career sports program, a PhD candidate at the Department of Psychology and a lecturer at the sports science department at Reykjavik University. He also works in recruitment for the Washington Spirit of the NWSL and previously as the head of youth at the football department at Breiðablik, head of football development at HK and assistant coach at Jiangsu Suning in China. He has also taught in coach education at the Football Association of Iceland‘s Department of Education and lectured at various universities and sports associations abroad. Daði has worked with a large number of athletes of all ages and abilities. His P.hD. project revolves around psychological skills training in football.

Dr. Zilla North

Planet Youth Coordinator in George, South Africa

Dr. Zilla North is a dedicated Medical Doctor with a Master’s degree in Public Health, currently serving as the Medical Manager for the George Sub-District in the Western Cape. With a rich background that includes her tenure as Medical Manager at George Hospital, Zilla has been at the forefront of healthcare management and community health initiatives. Notably, she has been instrumental in implementing the Planet Youth approach in the George Sub-District and expansion of the programme to 4 further districts in the province. As a mother of two teenage daughters, Zilla is passionate to be the change she wants to see in the world.

Emmet Major

Planet Youth Coordinator WRDATF

Emmet Major is acting as the Planet Youth Coordinator in the West of Ireland.  He is responsible for the three Planet Youth sites there: Planet Youth Galway, Planet Youth Mayo, and Planet Youth Roscommon. Emmet has over twenty years of experience in the health sector, specialising particularly in the area of substance use.  He has worked as an addiction counsellor, rehabilitation centre manager and is currently a community worker with the Western Region Drug and Alcohol Task Force.

Andrea Marel

head of youth programs at the Tjörnin Recreation Center

Andrea Marel works as the head of youth programs at the Tjörnin Recreation Center, which provides leisure activities for children and teenagers in the western part of Reykjavík. She is also one of the lecturers for the educational team Fokk me, fokk you, which educates teenagers in primary and secondary schools, as well as parents and staff, on prevention, risk behavior, and various challenges related to self-identity, communication, and social media during adolescence. Andrea holds an M.Ed. in Leisure and Social Studies with a focus on communication and prevention, as well as a B.Ed. in Primary Education from the University of Iceland.

Amanda Karima Ólafsdóttir

Head of Office Division, Education Department

Amanda Karima Ólafsdóttir works as the office manager at the Education Department of Kópavogur Municipality. She holds a BA degree in Education and Pedagogy from the University of Iceland and an MA in Sociology from Aarhus University. Amanda has extensive experience working on issues related to children and youth prevention efforts and has been a member of the steering committee for the Child-Friendly Municipality initiative in Kópavogur in recent years.

Lisa Wilson

Council Woman for the Lummi Indian Business Council

Lisa Wilson is a Council Member of the Lummi Indian Business Council, dedicated to protecting tribal sovereignty, natural resources, and treaty rights. She also serves as Vice Chair of the Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission and co-chairs the Natural Resources Committee for the Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians. With a background in environmental science and policy, Lisa has been a strong advocate for fisheries management, cultural preservation, and Indigenous rights. Her leadership continues to support sustainable resource management and the well-being of the Lummi Nation.

Rosamund Dunkley

Director, Division of Mental Health Promotion and Wellbeing ​at the Public Health Agency of Canada​

Rosamund Dunkley, M.Sc., is the Director of Mental Health Promotion and Wellbeing, which includes the Youth Substance Use Prevention Program at the Public Health Agency of Canada.  Rosamund’s areas of focus include funding community-based projects, developing and promoting tools for preventing substance-related harms among youth through equity, harm reduction, upstream prevention and stigma reduction, and providing advice to decision makers on public health issues related to substance use and mental health.

Jakob Sindri Þórsson

Specialist in the Administration Division of Kópavogur Municipality

Jakob Sindri Þórsson is a Specialist in the Administration Division of Kópavogur Municipality. He holds a BA degree in Philosophy from the University of Iceland and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Public Administration at the same university. Jakob Sindri has participated in numerous projects related to the implementation of innovation and digital solutions within the municipality. He has consistently worked to ensure that children’s voices are respected in decisions affecting their lives. Jakob Sindri was part of the working group that developed the Children’s Dashboard, which received international recognition from UNICEF for outstanding solutions and innovation in support of children and youth.

Mikael Grannas

Mayor, Municipality of Sipoo, Finland

Mikael Grannas is the Mayor of Sipoo, Finland, leading one of the country’s fastest-growing municipalities. With a strong focus on sustainable development and regional cooperation, he has played a key role in fostering partnerships between cities and advancing innovative policies that support community growth. In Sipoo, children and youth wellbeing is one of the main strategic goals, and in early 2024, Mikael signed an agreement with Planet Youth for implementing the Islandic Model in Sipoo.

Ncediswa Bolotina

Planet Youth coordinator, Western Cape Health

Ncediswa Bolotina-Mabongo is the Deputy Director at the Violence Prevention Unit (VPU) within the Western Cape Government: Health and Wellness. With a BA in Social Work, she is committed to advancing violence prevention through evidence-informed and multi-sectoral approaches that address the root causes of violence. She plays a key role in promoting collaborative action in high-crime areas through the Area-Based Team (ABT) approach to safety. With a strong focus on fostering safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environments, she advocates for schools as protective hubs where young people can access essential resources and support. Her work is dedicated to scaling high-impact initiatives that are sustainable, evidence-based, and transformative, ultimately enhancing the well-being and prospects of young people and their communities.

Dehran Swart

Planet Youth coordinator University of Cape Town (UCT)

Dehran’s career has been devoted to public health promotion, particularly among underserved citizens in South Africa (SA). He has broad training in health promotion, public health, and education. He has experience in the following fields: Secondary school education; Health Promotion Research and Development (the Medical Research Council of South Africa); Project Management (the Paraffin Safety Association of Southern Africa – burn prevention & surveillance, heath education and policy development); Tertiary Education (senior manager within the Faculty of Health Sciences). He was a project manager on an international study (NIH-funded Fogarty R01 grant) on Tobacco Prevention in Schools, a multi-country Global Youth Tobacco Survey (1st and 2nd rounds); the first Youth Risk Behaviour for SA; and served for over 8 years as senior project manager and director of research at the Paraffin Safety Association of Southern Africa. He is currently employed as the Health Teaching Platform Manager at UCT’s Faculty of Health Sciences for the past 11 years. His involvement in Planet Youth stretches back pre-COVID to the initial conversations of implementing PY in South Africa. He is also co-pillar lead of the Health Employment Pillar of the Healthy Futures SA project funded by the Mastercard Foundation.