As part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen youth engagement and promote inclusive representation, the International Society of Substance Use Professionals (ISSUP) has appointed Youth Representatives to the ISSUP National Chapters Advisory Committee (NCAC).
This initiative reflects ISSUP’s commitment to integrating youth perspectives into decision-making, strengthening the future workforce, and supporting meaningful participation of young professionals across regions.
Four (4) Youth Representatives have been selected to represent Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas, ensuring that youth voices remain central in shaping the global substance use workforce.
Africa Region – Deogratius Ramale
Deogratius Ramale is a psychologist from Tanzania with over six years of experience in substance use prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation.
Reflecting on his role, Deogratius shares:“I am dedicated to amplifying youth voices within ISSUP’s decision-making, driving the development of youth-tailored initiatives, and fostering active participation across all National Chapters in Africa.”
Asia Region – Thanh Việt Anh Võ
Thanh Việt Anh Võ is a PhD student in Clinical Psychology at VNU University of Education in Hanoi, Vietnam. He holds a Master’s degree in Biomedical Science (Neuroscience) and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology.
His research interests lie at the intersection of technology and psychology, particularly the use of artificial intelligence to improve mental health care for youth populations.
Americas Region – Guido Prósperi Lewintre
Guido Prósperi Lewintre is a bilingual psychology student at the University of Buenos Aires (UBA), Argentina, with experience working with young people in both community and educational settings.
His academic interests include clinical psychology, literature, and philosophy, with a particular focus on youth, mental health, and social inclusion.
Europe Region – Neva Türkdoğan
Neva Türkdoğan is a first-year medical student at Koç University in Türkiye. She works with public organisations, including Yeşilay, contributing to efforts focused on substance use prevention and community education.
She aspires to further her education in psychiatry and addiction studies, with the goal of contributing to improved mental health care and prevention strategies in the future.