Projects led by emerging leaders are making a difference in brain health through education and creativity across the globe.
On November 17, 2025, the Alzheimer’s Association, Global Brain Health Institute (GBHI), and Alzheimer’s Society (UK) announced 27 new recipients of the Pilot Awards for Global Brain Health Leaders. These awards fund innovative projects in 21 countries aimed at enhancing brain health, improving dementia care, and reducing stigma.
The Pilot Awards support a diverse group of leaders from various fields, including medicine, neuroscience, public health, and the arts. Their work focuses on creating practical solutions tailored to local needs. “These projects showcase the creativity and dedication of local leaders,” said Aura DeMare, Program Manager at GBHI. “By combining scientific knowledge with social action, these leaders are building a more compassionate world.”
Many projects aim to enhance education and training where dementia resources are scarce. For instance, in Nepal, [Madhur Basnet](https://www.gbhi.org/profiles/madhur-basnet) is working to bring dementia services into primary care. In the Dominican Republic, [Carolina Bidó](https://www.gbhi.org/profiles/carolina-bido) is creating an online training program for doctors, while in Ghana, [Kwaku Manu](https://www.gbhi.org/profiles/kwaku-sarfo-manu) is leading a caregiver training initiative to empower families and strengthen community support.
Other initiatives utilize technology to enhance diagnosis and treatment. [Emilie Brotherhood](https://www.gbhi.org/profiles/emilie-brotherhood) in the UK is developing a computer-based tool for early detection of dementia. In Spain, [Olga Castañer](https://www.gbhi.org/profiles/olga-castaner) is researching new therapies using nanoparticle models. In Africa, [Temitope Farombi](https://www.gbhi.org/profiles/temitope-farombi) and [Mawuli Lawson](https://www.gbhi.org/profiles/mawuli-lawson) are adapting digital diagnostic tools to improve early care recognition.
“Real progress in dementia research requires global teamwork alongside local innovation,” said [Heather Snyder](https://www.alz.org/press/spokespeople/heather_m_snyder_ph_d) from the Alzheimer’s Association.
Creativity also plays a role in changing perceptions about dementia. In Peru, journalist [Susana Lay](https://www.gbhi.org/profiles/susana-lay) runs the “Voices to Action” project to highlight community experiences. In Romania, psychologist [Raluca Sfetcu](https://www.gbhi.org/profiles/raluca-sfetcu) is launching a podcast about brain health. In the U.S., filmmaker [Michelle Memran](https://www.gbhi.org/profiles/michelle-memran) is producing a documentary that explores how society perceives dementia.
These 27 new awardees join 184 others since the program began in 2017, funding 211 projects across 53 countries. Collectively, these initiatives have secured over $135 million in additional funding, further amplifying their impact on brain health. This funding is crucial; with nearly 50 million people living with dementia worldwide, addressing this issue is vital for improving care and supporting families.
For deeper insights and further reading, check out the Alzheimer’s Association’s [website](https://www.alz.org) and the Global Brain Health Institute’s [resources](https://gbhi.org). These platforms provide valuable information and support for anyone interested in learning more about brain health initiatives.
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