The Health Leadership Service (HLS) Initiative has been launched by Director-General JW Lee to establish a network of national and international public health experts. Through the Health Leadership Service, the World Health Organization (WHO) has begun recruiting young health professionals to a two-year work and training program, specifically aimed at strengthening the knowledge and skills essential for leadership roles in public health at all levels - national, regional and global. Successful candidates will: Be under 38 years of age on 1 February 2005 Have an advanced degree in a public-health related field Have 2 years of work experience in a public health area, preferably in a developing country Have a very good knowledge of English, as all formal courses will be conducted in English (working knowledge of another WHO official language is desirable) The deadline to submit applications is 15 September 2004! For more information and to apply please visit : http://www.who.int/health_leadership Women and nationals of developing countries are particularly encouraged to apply. The desired target is that 80% of selected participants will be nationals of developing countries, and at least 50% will be women. The Nursing and Midwifery Office (NMO) at WHO Headquarters would particularly encourage the nursing and midwifery community to alert possible candidates to submit their applications directly to the HLS program. However, the NMO would appreciate to learn about these candidates to expand its growing base of public health experts. To contact the NMO please e-mail to: nmoffice@who.int