This Women’s Day, I want to relate to all women in medicine an experience that has proven to be one of the most transformative in my personal and professional life.
Global Women Leaders Programme
I have aspired to be a part of the Global Women Leaders Programme (GWLP) because of the career milestone it has proven to be for countless women before me. So, I was excited at the prospect of being part of a program dedicated to empowering women in healthcare. This program, I knew, would open doors to new possibilities and avenues, both professionally and personally.
The sessions within the GWLP were enlightening and productive; engaging with fellow participants from diverse backgrounds, each with their own unique perspectives and experiences, was inspiring. We delved into various topics, from leadership styles to overcoming challenges in the healthcare sector. These sessions equipped me with the skills and insights necessary to navigate the complexities of leadership in healthcare and beyond.
Fulfilling Lifelong Dreams
Having learned so well from the program, I manifested the sense of empowerment the program instilled in me and secured the promotion to head the dermatology department at my hospital. This achievement motivated me to advocate for change not only within dermatology, but across all departments to promote a more wholesome and inclusive healthcare policy.
Inspired by the GWLP, I have initiated several initiatives aimed at improving access to healthcare for women and children in my community. These include organizing free medical camps and voicing the need for establishment of a day-care centre within my department to support working mothers.
Witnessing the impact of these initiatives firsthand has been incredibly fulfilling and reinforces my commitment to advancing women’s healthcare. In collaboration with non-governmental organizations and a handful of female physicians, we have hosted free medical camps, in regions of limited access to medicine and treatment, two months in a row now. I am delighted to report that both free medical camps have been a massive success where our team of volunteer doctors has treated 300+ families in a little over six hours. The camps’ success and long queues of patients has intensified our commitment to service, motivating us to conduct similar medical camps each month to provide free of cost consultation, advisory services, treatment and medication to those who need it most.
Note of Thanks
The GWLP has served as a vessel to bring together like-minded individuals who have been a passionate driving force to bring about positive change. Their encouragement has been instrumental to my achievements since then. With their continued support I look forward to expanding advocacy efforts for women’s healthcare advancements and driving positive change within the healthcare sector.
I am grateful for the experiences, connections, and opportunities the Global Women Leaders Programme has afforded me, and am excited to act as an intermediary to spread the seeds of this confidence and wisdom amongst the women of my community. May all your support be the motivation I need.
