Dr. Magteld Smith is a medical-social researcher, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of the Free State, Republic of South Africa. She has 19 years of experience in the field of disabilities and the founder of  various community projects. Her research compares the cost effectiveness of rehabilitation programs for persons with disabling hearing impairment, including multiple disabilities associated with hearing impairment, making it possible for more people to have access to a wider array of rehabilitation options. She is a doctoral candidate in development studies, Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, and she holds a master degree in governance and political transformation and a master degree in development studies, all from the University of the Free State (Bloemfontein, South Africa). During her fellowship year Ms. Smith will focus on public health policy management.