Global voices unite: First speakers announced for World Indigenous Cancer Conference 2026
The World Indigenous Cancer Conference (W.I.C.C) 2026 is set to bring together global leaders, researchers, and advocates to advance cancer equity for Indigenous peoples worldwide. Taking place in Rotorua, Aotearoa New Zealand from 20–24 April 2026, the conference will feature an inspiring programme of knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and action.
We are proud to announce the first five speakers who will feature at W.I.C.C 2026:
Dr. Nicole Redvers (Canada) – A global leader and champion for Indigenous perspectives on human and planetary health and integrative medicine.
Dr. Rodney Haring, (USA) – A leading cancer researcher, mentor, health communicator, and expert on treaty conversations.
Sir Professor Collin Tukuitonga (Pacific) – A champion for health equity across the Pacific.
Professor Bev Lawton, ONZM (Aotearoa) – A trailblazer in Māori health research and women’s health advocacy.
Associate Professor Lisa Whop (Australia) – A respected epidemiologist driving cancer screening and prevention for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
These speakers represent diverse perspectives and expertise, united by a commitment to improving cancer outcomes for Indigenous communities.
More speaker announcements will follow in the coming weeks, promising a dynamic and thought-provoking line-up.
Programme Highlights
The four-day programme will include:
Pōwhiri - a traditional Māori welcome
Six plenary sessions featuring global thought leaders
Five concurrent sessions exploring critical themes
Nearly 300 presentations (oral and poster) have been accepted and will showcase cutting-edge research and community initiatives
Two breakfast symposia and a closing dinner
Join Us at W.I.C.C 2026
As we unite knowledge and action to transform cancer outcomes for Indigenous peoples globally. This is your opportunity to connect, learn, and lead change.
For registration details and updates, visit www.heiahurumowai.org.nz/wicc2026
SPEAKER BIOS
Dr. Nicole Redvers, DPhil, ND, MPH, is a member of the Denı́nu Kų́ę́ First Nation (Northwest Territories, Canada) and serves as Associate Professor, Western Research Chair, and Director of Indigenous Planetary Health at Western University’s Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry. She is Vice President of Research at the Association of Faculties of Medicine of Canada and previously co-developed North America’s first Indigenous Health PhD program at the University of North Dakota. Dr. Redvers advocates globally for integrating Indigenous perspectives into human and planetary health. She sits on the Canada Research Coordinating Committee’s Indigenous Leadership Circle, the Lancet Commissions on Arctic Health and Viral Spillover, and advisory groups for WHO, Wellcome Trust, and the Planetary Health Alliance. Her research bridges Indigenous and Western knowledge systems, and she authored The Science of the Sacred: Bridging Global Indigenous Medicine Systems and Modern Scientific Principles.
Dr. Rodney C. Haring is the inaugural Chair of the Department of Indigenous Cancer Health at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, an NCI-designated institution. A citizen of the Seneca Nation (Beaver Clan), he lives between the Allegany and Cattaraugus Territories. With a PhD and over 20 years of service experience, he has led dozens of studies, program evaluations, service initiatives and quality improvement projects. His work advances resiliency, data sovereignty, health behavior interventions, and translational science, while also mentoring the next generation of cancer scientists and health professionals. He co-leads Roswell Park’s health communications team, producing documentary style films that support clinical trials and public health. Founding Director of the Center for Indigenous Cancer Research and the Center for Indigenous Cancer Services. Recognized with multiple awards including the National Indian Health Board Impact Award, National Federation of Just Heros Award and a TED Ignite Fellowship, he is also among the few traditional Haudenosaunee wooden lacrosse stick makers, with works exhibited worldwide.
Professor Collin Tukuitonga KNZM FISC is a Niuean-born New Zealand doctor, public health academic, public policy expert and equity advocate. He was appointed a Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit, for services to Pacific and public health, in 2022. Collin is a Niuean Public Health Medicine Specialist currently Associate Dean Pacific at the University of Auckland Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Co-director for the University of Auckland Research Centre for Pacific and Global Health (Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa) and Professor of Public Health. Sir Collin is a career public servant with extensive experience in NZ, the Pacific and internationally. Collin has led major roles including Director-General of SPC, WHO Coordinator, and Chief Executive of Pacific Island Affairs. He championed Pacific Language Weeks and Niue’s Culture Festival. A leading Pacific health advocate, his voice shaped COVID-19 responses and continues to drive equity and policy improvements for Pasifika communities.
Professor Beverley (Bev) Lawton ONZM is a leading advocate for women’s health and Māori well-being. Founder and Director of Te Tātai Hauora o Hine – National Centre for Women’s Health Research Aotearoa, Bev champions Kaupapa Māori research addressing systemic inequities and social determinants of health. Her work has driven major policy changes, including the Severe Maternal Morbidity monitoring programme and the national cervical cancer screening rollout, removing barriers for wāhine Māori and reducing preventable deaths. A former GP and co-founder of the Wellington Menopause Clinic, Bev has dedicated her career to evidence-based care and health equity. Her contributions have earned national and international recognition: Officer of the NZ Order of Merit (2005), Distinguished Fellow of the Royal College of General Practice (2017), Women of Influence Award (2021), and 2025 Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year Te Pou Whakarae o Aotearoa.
Associate Professor Lisa Whop BMedSc, MAppEpi, PhD, is Associate Director of Research and Senior Fellow at Yardhura Walani, the National Centre for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Wellbeing Research, Australian National University. Lisa is an Indigenist (Gumulgal, Wagadagam) epidemiologist with extensive experience in cancer control, particularly in cervical and lung cancer screening. Whop’s work combines epidemiological, policy and implementation expertise with a strong commitment to equity, community leadership, and antiracist practice in public health systems.