Every hero has a story to tell, and their stories deserve to be heard.

Our Frank & Fearless series invites brilliant individuals who are pushing the boundaries of science, health, and innovation to join us and share their inspiring journeys – both personal and professional.

With the support of REDI, powered by MTPConnect, we are delighted to be joined by our special international guests, Dr Kate Merton and Dr Ken Bahk, Chicago ARC, for the third instalment of ANDHealth's Frank & Fearless series on Thursday 16 November in Melbourne.

The Chicago ARC is a health equity-focused, global venture collaborative that is bringing together health, education and research partners, community organisations, and corporate partners to help startups create and scale solutions to address growing healthcare needs.

About the guests

Dr Ken Bahk, PhD

Dr Ken Bahk specialises in the creation of new markets in healthcare and the acceleration of startups within. He is a sought-after speaker on the topics of key health tech trends and innovation for institutions, including by the White House and the prestigious JP Morgan Healthcare Conference.

Ken is the Co-founder of Chicago ARC, built in partnership with multiple leading health providers and country-level partnerships. He has spent his 20+ year career in life sciences and healthcare; enabling new technologies from idea to commercialisation as a senior executive, venture and impact investor for family offices, and investor and board member for multiple market-leading exits in excess of $2.5B.

Most recently, Ken served as an advisor to PATHS-UP, the $100M National Science Foundation backed consortium of leading academics and behemoth industry players who develop advanced technologies and health systems for underserved populations.

Dr Kate Merton, PhD, MBA

Dr Kate Merton is currently Executive Director of the Chicago ARC, and brings more than 20 years’ experience working in healthcare R&D and innovation in the US.

Previously, Kate ran Anthem’s Digital Incubator, and was the Head of Johnson & Johnson Innovation JLABS, in New York City, Boston and Philadelphia.

During her career Kate has been part of teams that have discovered new drugs, worked to develop and gain approval for blockbuster diabetes products and is passionate about being part of the future of healthcare where science intersects with the rapid advancements in health care technology.

Discover the story behind their achievements, the challenges they have faced, and the insights they have gained along their remarkable and inspiring journeys.

Because not all heroes wear capes.

Event Details:

5:00pm - 5:30pm: Welcome and Networking
5:30pm - 6:30pm: Interview with Dr Kate Merton and Dr Ken Bahk, Hosted by Bronwyn Le Grice, CEO and Managing Director, ANDHealth
6:30pm - 7:30pm: Networking Drinks and Nibbles