Amanda Lyons, EUPATI’s Network and Communications Coordinator.
As we continue our series spotlighting the EUPATI Secretariat team, we’re offering a closer look at the people who make our work possible. This series explores how we operate behind the scenes, how we support patient education, and who to reach out to for different areas of expertise.
Based in North Dublin, Ireland, Amanda manages EUPATI’s communications and coordinates the EUPATI National Platform network. She has been part of EUPATI since 2020. In this edition, Amanda chats about her role and responsibilities, and reflects on the aspects of her work she finds most enjoyable.
What is your main work stream?
I actually have a bit of a dual role at EUPATI. I joined in 2020 as the EUPATI National Platform Coordinator, and over time my role has grown to also include Communications Coordinator.
On the National Platform side, I work closely with our platforms across Europe and Japan. I organise our regular meetings, support them with materials, stay connected through calls, and act as a central point of contact. I also collaborate with our ENP Cluster Leaders to help shape priorities for the year.
On the communications side, I manage everything from social media and newsletters to website updates, press releases, and interviews. It’s quite a broad role, and it means I get to work across different parts of the organisation, which is interesting.
What’s your favourite part of your role
Definitely connecting with people. That’s the part I enjoy the most.
I love our ENP catch-ups and team meetings where we plan things together, but one of my absolute favourite things is interviewing Fellows from the EUPATI Patient Expert Training Programme, especially when I can do that in person.
Last year, I had the chance to organise both group and individual interviews, and hearing people’s personal “why” was really special. Why they chose the programme, why they wanted to learn, why EUPATI. It was incredibly inspiring.
I also love seeing people thrive and follow their passions. When you witness that, something really powerful happens. And on a personal level, I’ve always loved writing, so creating content is something I genuinely enjoy too.
What does a typical day look like for you?
My working day usually starts after dropping my kids to crèche. I log on from home in the countryside and begin by checking emails and catching up on our social media channels.
Some days are very focused on writing, where I’m in a bit of a creative bubble and not interacting as much. While I enjoy that, I do miss the connection, so I really appreciate the days when I have meetings and get to chat with colleagues and stakeholders.
One of the nicest parts of the role is how international it is. Between our team, National Platforms, and wider network, I feel like I’m travelling without actually travelling. As a former TEFL teacher, I’ve always loved learning about different cultures, so that’s something I really value.
And I truly believe in education, so being part of an organisation that empowers people through learning is something that means a lot to me.
Do you have a favourite quote?
I have a couple! One I really love is:
“Dance first, think after. It’s the natural order.” — Samuel Beckett
It’s a great reminder not to take life too seriously. Dance has always been my happy place. It can completely shift your mood and energy. Especially when we spend so much time working online, it’s so important to move, get outside, and reset.
Since moving back to the countryside, I’ve really noticed how powerful nature can be. There’s beauty everywhere if you take a moment to see it.
And of course, another favourite from Oscar Wilde:
“Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.”
It’s no coincidence that I have highlighted some of my favourite Irish writers as I am very proud of Ireland’s rich contribution to the arts and I have a deep appreciation for my Irish heritage.
Date posted: April 29, 2026
Categories: Uncategorized
