Haile Debas, born on October 20, 1937, in Asmara, Eritrea, is a distinguished medical professional and renowned global health advocate. His contributions to medical education, research, and healthcare policy have had a profound impact on the field of medicine and the improvement of healthcare systems worldwide. Growing up in Eritrea, Debas displayed a passion for learning and a deep interest in medicine from an early age. He pursued his higher education at the University of California, Berkeley, and later obtained his medical degree from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). Debas then went on to complete his surgical training at UCSF, where he developed expertise in gastrointestinal surgery. Debas's career took a significant turn when he assumed leadership roles in academic medicine and healthcare administration. He served as the Chair of the Department of Surgery at UCSF, where he played a pivotal role in advancing surgical education and research. Under his leadership, the department thrived and achieved international recognition for its excellence in surgical training and innovation. In addition to his contributions in academic medicine, Debas became a global health advocate, focusing on improving healthcare access and quality in low-resource settings. He recognized the urgent need to address global health disparities and worked tirelessly to foster collaborations between institutions, governments, and organizations to tackle these challenges. Debas played a key role in establishing the UCSF Global Health Sciences program, which aimed to train the next generation of global health leaders and conduct research that would inform evidence-based solutions for health inequities. Through his visionary leadership, the program expanded its reach and impact, engaging in transformative research, education, and capacity-building initiatives across the globe. Throughout his career, Debas has received numerous accolades and honors for his outstanding contributions to the field of medicine and global health. His expertise and guidance have been sought after by international organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations. He has served on various advisory boards and committees, lending his expertise to shape policies and strategies that address pressing global health challenges. Beyond his professional achievements, Debas is known for his compassion, humility, and commitment to social justice. He has been a strong advocate for health equity and has dedicated his efforts to improving the lives of underserved populations. His tireless work has touched the lives of countless individuals and communities, leaving a lasting legacy in the field of medicine and global health. Haile Debas's remarkable career and lifelong commitment to advancing healthcare, promoting equity, and training the next generation of healthcare leaders have made him a revered figure in the medical community. His passion, vision, and advocacy continue to inspire individuals and organizations worldwide to work towards achieving health for all.