Meet Prof Eileen Africa: Fulbright Scholar and Sports Medicine Expert

Meet Prof Eileen Africa: Fulbright Scholar and Sports Medicine Expert 1024 683 Abbie Miller

Prof Eileen Africa, an associate professor in the Division of Movement Science and Exercise Therapy in the Department of Exercise, Sport, and Lifestyle Medicine at Stellenbosch University in South Africa and a Fulbright scholar, recently visited Nationwide Children’s to work with Dr. James MacDonald and the Sports Medicine Team conducting research about the effectiveness of play-based exercise programs for children.

Prof. Eileen Africa

Q: What brought you to Nationwide Children’s Hospital?

I am an associate professor in the Department of Exercise, Sport, and Lifestyle Medicine at Stellenbosch University in South Africa where I lead the Kinderkinetics honours degree programme, specializing in paediatric movement science. In 2022, I had the privilege of meeting Dr. James MacDonald during his visit to South Africa, and his expertise and passion for paediatric care left a lasting impression. When the opportunity arose to apply for a Fulbright scholarship, I immediately knew I wanted him as my sponsor and host — a decision that has proven to be one of the best I’ve ever made. This scholarship has brought me to Nationwide Children’s Hospital, where I am expanding my knowledge and contributing to the field alongside world-class professionals.

Q: Why “play as exercise?” What does this mean to you?

As a professional dedicated to paediatric movement science — and as a mother — I’ve seen firsthand how transformative play can be for children. Watching a child light up as they master a new skill, whether it’s hopping, balancing or throwing a ball, is a reminder of how essential movement is to their overall growth and happiness.

Play isn’t just about physical activity; it’s a gateway to building confidence, developing creativity, and developing crucial social skills like teamwork and communication. I’ve seen shy children blossom through playful group activities and witnessed how even the smallest achievements can ignite a love for being active. Encouraging exercise through play, not only lays the foundation for a lifelong commitment to health but also creates moments of pure joy that help children thrive emotionally, socially and physically. It is these moments that make my work feel meaningful.

Q: What would you like pediatricians to know about your work?

As a researcher, academic, lecturer and therapist in pediatric movement science, I believe it is essential for pediatricians to understand the foundational role of movement in a child’s overall development. Kinderkinetics (pediatric movement science), emphasizes the critical importance of physical activity and movement, not only for physical health but also for cognitive, emotional and social well-being. Children thrive when they have opportunities to engage in structured, purposeful movement. Promoting healthy behaviors isn’t just about addressing immediate health concerns — it’s about building a foundation for lifelong fitness, as stronger, fitter children are more likely to become healthier adults. By viewing movement skills as the “grammar” of the language of health, rather than solely through the lens of disease, pediatricians can play a transformative role in encouraging active lifestyles that support a child’s health now and well into adulthood.

Q: What are your plans for publishing your work here?

I am currently involved in preparing the de-identified data from a previous study conducted as part of the Play Strong program for publication. This study aimed to explore and compare children’s perceptions of an 8-minute structured high-intensity interval training (HIIT) session versus a play-based activity, while also assessing whether the children exerted greater physical effort during HIIT or the play session.

In terms of professional relationships, the publication provides an opportunity to deepen collaborations with colleagues here at Nationwide Children’s and beyond. It strengthens the foundation for ongoing dialogue and future joint research initiatives that could advance our collective understanding of pediatric movement science and health.

Q: What has your experience at Nationwide Children’s been like?

My experience at Nationwide Children’s as a Fulbright Scholar has been nothing short of transformative. From the moment I arrived, I was welcomed into a vibrant community of professionals dedicated to innovation and excellence in pediatric care. Collaborating with these colleagues have expanded my knowledge and inspired new ideas for my own field of Kinderkinetics. The hospital’s commitment to holistic, child-centred care aligns perfectly with my passion for pediatric movement science, and every interaction has been a learning opportunity. This experience has not only enriched my professional journey but has also reinforced my belief in the power of collaboration to create meaningful change for children’s health.

About the author

Abbie (Roth) Miller, MWC, is a passionate communicator of science. As the manager, medical and science content, at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, she shares stories about innovative research and discovery with audiences ranging from parents to preeminent researchers and leaders. Before coming to Nationwide Children’s, Abbie used her communication skills to engage audiences with a wide variety of science topics. She is a Medical Writer Certified®, credentialed by the American Medical Writers Association.