Sepsis Trust NZ is honoured to announce the appointment of one of New Zealand’s most respected global public health leaders, the Rt. Hon. Helen Clark, as its new Patron.

Her appointment brings an unparalleled depth of global leadership and public health experience to the role, signalling to government, clinicians, funders and the public that sepsis is a serious, system-level health priority worthy of national and international attention.

As former Prime Minister of New Zealand, Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and Co-Chair of the Independent Panel for Pandemic Preparedness and Response, Helen Clark has spent decades advancing health equity, strengthening health systems, and championing prevention and early intervention worldwide.

Sepsis (mate whakatāoke) is a life-threatening condition that arises when your body’s response to an infection damages its own tissues and organs. Anyone is at risk of developing sepsis as any infection can lead to sepsis, and it is always a medical emergency.

Sepsis is one of the leading causes of preventable death globally and it disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including Māori, Pacific peoples, mothers and newborns, as well as those with limited access to timely healthcare.

During her tenure at UNDP, Helen Clark oversaw programmes addressing maternal and newborn health, communicable diseases, and health system resilience in low- and middle-income countries, all areas in which sepsis is a major but often under-recognised contributor to mortality. Her leadership on pandemic preparedness has also highlighted the critical importance of early detection, coordinated response, and public awareness, principles central to effective sepsis prevention and treatment.

Helen Clark says she was honoured to take on the role and support the Trust’s work.

“Sepsis is a major cause of avoidable death and disability, yet it remains poorly understood by the public and too often recognised too late.

“Improving awareness, strengthening health system responses, and addressing inequities in outcomes are essential.

“I am delighted to support Sepsis Trust NZ in its efforts to save lives and improve care,” she says.

Sepsis Trust NZ CEO, Ally Hossain, says the appointment reflects the growing recognition of sepsis as a global public health priority.

“Sepsis sits at the intersection of infection, health system preparedness, equity, and public awareness. Helen Clark’s career has been dedicated to exactly these issues.

“Her patronage will strengthen our advocacy, amplify our message, and help ensure sepsis is recognised as the medical emergency it is,” she says.

Sepsis Trust NZ thanks its previous Patron, Professor Stephen Chambers, for his work and ongoing support.

The Trust works to raise awareness of sepsis, support those affected, and advocate for system-wide improvements in prevention, recognition, and treatment.