Gertrude A. Buttigieg by profession is a licensed Speech Language Pathologist & holds a Masters Degree in Health Management. Works on a full-time basis at the Office of the Commissioner for the Rights of persons with mental disorders – primarily on Communication and Patient Advocacy. Has also contributed as main author and co-author in various presentation, papers and publications on a local and European Level.  On a voluntary basis she serves as the Chariperson of the Malta Health Network (MHN)which is an umbrella organisation which brings together over 40 Health related organisations. Gertrude has participated as speaker and participant in several conferences in Malta and abroad.