DrChali Hub

I’m Dr. Chalchisa Abdeta (PhD) — though many know me simply as Dr Chali. I am a researcher, digital wellbeing advocate, and global health collaborator working at the intersection of 24‑hour movement behaviours (physical activity, sedentary screen time, and sleep) and public health.

I’m passionate about turning scientific evidence into practical tools that help families, young people, and communities thrive. My journey began in Ethiopia, where I trained as a physiotherapist before completing a Master of Public Health. I later earned my PhD from the University of Wollongong, Australia, where my research focused on adherence to the World Health Organization’s 24‑hour movement behaviour guidelines and their impact on young children’s health and development.

Over the years, I have contributed to major international research initiatives, including the SUNRISE International Study led by Distinguished Professor Anthony Okely in Australia and the Active Healthy Kids Global Alliance led by Professor Mark Tremblay in Canada. I have also had the privilege of working alongside Professor John Reilly from Scotland, a leading figure in child health research. My work has been recognised globally, including receiving the 2022 Patrice L. Engle Dissertation Grant in Early Child Development (USA)—an international award of USD 5,000 supporting community‑led research translation in Ethiopia. I also received the Outstanding HDR Proposal Award from the University of Wollongong and a full Higher Degree Research scholarship to pursue my PhD at Early Start Research. To date, my work has achieved an h‑index of 10, with more than 1,800 citations.

Recently, I founded DrChali Hub—a science‑driven platform that empowers families, educators, and communities to navigate healthier digital habits and active living. My work blends rigorous research with storytelling, cultural insight, and community engagement, enabling me to reach audiences far beyond academia and contribute to healthier digital and physical environments worldwide. Explore my work at www.drchali.com.