On 7 March, the event “One World: Medical Entomology and Community Engagement” took place at the Museu Nacional de Etnologia, organised by Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa (IHMT NOVA) in partnership with the museum. The initiative marked the closing session of the exhibition “One World”, on display since September 2025, and featured a special contribution from Derek Charlwood, researcher at the VBD-GHTM Research Group, widely recognised not only for his scientific work in medical entomology but also for his talent as a photographer and storyteller.
The programme began with a guided tour of the exhibition, led by the author himself. Throughout the visit, Derek Charlwood shared the stories and contexts behind the photographs, taking participants on a journey through the field experiences that shaped his work and highlighting the close relationships he established with the communities where he conducted his research.
This was followed by a session dedicated to Entomological Collections, presented by Filipe Lopes, also a researcher from VBD-GHTM. The audience had the opportunity to observe several insect species collected by Derek Charlwood during his scientific work in different regions of the world, as well as common species found in Portugal, offering a closer look at insect diversity and its relevance to medical entomology.
The afternoon continued with a roundtable discussion on the role of medical entomology and its relationship with communities. The conversation brought together three complementary perspectives: Derek Charlwood’s field experience, the laboratory-based approach of João Pinto (VBD-GHTM) and the clinical and public health perspective of Márcia Medeiros, physician and researcher from the IHC-GHTM Research Group. The session was moderated by Sofia Rodrigues.
The dialogue between these different perspectives was marked by the sharing of experiences and reflections on the challenges involved in studying and controlling insect-borne diseases. It offered a rare opportunity to hear first-hand accounts from researchers and practitioners whose work often takes place far from the public eye, yet is fundamental to advancing science and public health.
A key message emerged from the discussion: community engagement is essential for translating scientific knowledge into effective action. Strengthening the connection between science, scientists, and communities helps improve health communication, promote health literacy, and support more effective strategies for disease prevention and control.
