Monash University Malaysia Graduation Address April 2025, Chiara Lionel Salim

"The Graduation Address gives us the opportunity to hear from
a distinguished member of our community, and we are fortunate
that today the Address will be delivered by Ms Chiara Lionel
Salim.

Chiara a proud Class of 2019 graduate of Monash University
Malaysia, holds a Bachelor of Computer Science and has
transformed personal health challenges into a powerful mission
of advocacy and impact.

Diagnosed with severe psoriatic disease at the age of nine, Chiara
faced first-hand the stigma, misinformation, and lack of support
that many patients endure. Determined to make a difference, she
founded Psoriasis Indonesia in 2019, a patient organization that
now serves over 19,000 community members, providing much-
needed awareness, education, and support.

Her journey took an unexpected turn in 2021 when she
experienced a second attack of transverse myelitis, a rare
neurological condition that left her paralyzed from the
diaphragm down. Despite this life-changing challenge, Chiara’s
resilience and determination never wavered. Just a year later, she
relocated to Europe to pursue a career in data analytics, where
she now serves as a Senior Growth Analyst at Bolt, Europe's first
mobility super-app, based in Tallinn, Estonia.

Beyond her professional success, Chiara remains a dedicated
global health advocate. She was recognized as one of Monash
University Malaysia’s distinguished alumni during the Silver
Jubilee celebration in 2023 and has served as a Global
Ambassador for the International Federation of Psoriasis
Associations (IFPA) since 2021, representing Indonesia on international
platforms.

Chiara’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience,
purpose, and perseverance. She continues to leverage her lived
experiences to drive positive change in public health, advocating
for equitable healthcare access and improved patient quality of
life.”

--
12 April 2025, Sunway Resort Hotel, Malaysia