For our Meet the Team series, we spoke with Suby Sanju, Strategic Sourcing Manager at IDA Foundation in Mumbai. Suby plays a key role in sourcing medicines for the NCDconnect platform, ensuring that quality, affordable treatments for noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) reach healthcare organisations in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). We asked Suby about her motivation for working in global health and her hopes for the impact of NCDconnect.

Tell me about yourself and your experience with IDA so far – Suby Sanju

Hi, I am Suby Sanju, and I work as a Strategic Sourcing Manager for NCDconnect in IDA Foundation’s Mumbai office. My journey with IDA began a few years ago, when I was handling regulatory and registration requirements across diverse markets. With my background in pharmacy and a specialisation in supply chain management, I have had the opportunity to grow through various roles, such as supporting global health programs focused on HIV, Malaria, and TB, coordinating the assembly of emergency medical kits, and leading multiple project management initiatives.

In my current role, I lead sourcing activities for noncommunicable disease (NCD) treatments, collaborating with global suppliers to ensure treatments are affordable, of quality, and accessible. It is incredibly fulfilling to know that our work directly contributes to better health outcomes for communities that need it most.

Being part of IDA Foundation lets me combine my technical expertise with a mission I believe in: making healthcare more accessible and equitable across the globe.

What motivates you to work in the field of global health?

I have always been driven by a desire to make a meaningful difference in the world, and global health felt like the right path, especially in supporting people in low-income countries. Rather than working directly in the field, I chose to contribute behind the scenes by helping improve access to essential medicines. At IDA Foundation, I focus on ensuring that quality medicines reach those who need them most. Knowing that my work supports better health outcomes and helps reduce health inequalities is what continues to inspire me every day.

Why is NCDconnect such a vital platform according to you?

NCDconnect plays a vital role in improving access to medicines and care for NCDs, which often receive less attention than infectious diseases. It addresses a critical gap by bringing together governments, NGOs, and suppliers, so there’s better coordination, data-sharing, and prevention of stockouts. By doing so, NCDconnect supports building more consistent care and contributes to stronger, more resilient health systems for patients.

What are your aspirations and goals for the platform, and what impact do you hope to achieve through your work?

I’d love to see NCDconnect grow into an even stronger platform—one that builds long-term partnerships with suppliers, ensures a steady supply of essential medicines, and ultimately helps close the gaps in care for people living with NCDs. Ultimately, my goal is for NCDconnect to help close gaps in care, reinforce health systems, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of people living with NCDs worldwide.