The making of a global medical leader

The medical scenario in Bangladesh is perceived to be not positive for underpaying freshly graduated medical students and a lack of adequate funding for medical universities and research facilities throughout the country, even though the country has a continuous demand for doctors for its ever-growing population. In recent years, there has been a rise in the number of Bangladeshi students going abroad for higher studies, but the rate has been exceedingly low for medical students.

But there has been a ray of hope, notably the example of Dr Farah Diva Khan. She completed her MBBS at Mymensingh Medical College under the University of Dhaka and then recently completed her MSc in Surgical Sciences from the University of Oxford. Dr Khan not only secured her place but also achieved numerous awards and scholarships, including the Turing Scholarship, Eurofins Scientific Award, and Miranda Brawn Diversity Leadership Scholarship, along with funding from her college and supervisors during her master's studies. With all these achievements, she proved that medical students from Bangladesh have the potential to achieve success in higher studies abroad.

When asked about the driving forces behind her achievements, Dr Khan reflected on her authenticity. "The main thing that always helps to stand out is that I am very honest and real about myself. In all my interviews I try to present what I am as a person from the heart. A heart that never gets tired of helping people and wants the best for others always. I believe everyone can sense the aura of positivity, kindness, hard work and compassion."

Dr Khan's journey wasn't just about personal accolades, her experiences were also shaped by multiple internships that prepared her for future ambitions. She described her internship at the Aswan Heart Centre, funded by the Turing Scheme scholarship, as crucial for her career, particularly for pursuing a cardiothoracic training post in the UK.

Aswan Heart Centre is a renowned charity hospital which offers free, world-class treatment to underprivileged individuals, recognised by Harvard, Oxford, and Stanford professors. As someone from a low- and middle-income country (LMIC), she felt inspired by its exceptional work. "This experience is not only enhancing my academic and clinical skills but also helping me build leadership and administrative abilities," she explained, aspiring to use her skills for the betterment of underserved communities.

Studying at Oxford brought unique challenges and unparalleled opportunities, particularly from a cultural and systemic perspective. "Here, you're competing with people from all over the world, each bringing unique strengths," Dr Khan noted, emphasising the pressure to prove herself as a student from a lower-middle-income country. Yet, this environment also fostered a rich diversity and networking that became essential to her growth. "Being part of such a diverse community has allowed me to build a global network that supports my career and personal growth," she added.

Entering the male-dominated field of cardiac surgery has another set of challenges, especially for a female from Bangladesh and an International Medical Graduate (IMG) in the UK. Dr Khan was often discouraged, facing different realities and biases, but she persevered. "I never think of the worst scenario. I am always positive about everything," she stated, determined to compete and prove her worth in this rigorous field.

Balancing the demanding nature of her field with her personal life was essential for Dr Khan. She shared that maintaining this balance is not just about managing time but about nurturing both ambition and well-being. "I prioritise my goals with discipline, create space for rest, and embrace moments that bring me joy and renewal," she explained, a strategy that keeps her grounded and motivated.

For those dreaming of following in her footsteps, Dr Khan advised, "Be honest and true to yourself. First, you need to know yourself, then decide what you want from life. Set goals, work hard, and manifest them." Her encouragement is rooted in kindness and a belief in the supportive power of the universe for those who contribute positively to the world.

Dr Khan often faces questions about the admission process and the necessity of a master's degree for advanced medical training. She clarified, "One just needs to create an account on the university's official website and apply for the specific course. There are no traditional scholarships available for clinical subjects worldwide, and funding opportunities are very limited. Most traditional scholarships are available for subjects related to public health and epidemiology."

She urges future aspirants to seek out available opportunities and apply for multiple funding sources and scholarships. Regarding future academic interests, she stated, "To acquire a government-listed surgical training position in the UK, you need a solid portfolio. A master's degree can help you gain extra points."

Dr Khan's long-term goals include establishing a career in clinical and academic surgery, pursuing an MSc and DPhil/PhD on the academic side, and MRCS and FRCS on the clinical side. Her motivations are driven by evidence-based medical practice and extensive research. As an activist, she is highly committed to motivating and mentoring young people. She has previously mentored hundreds of young people and hopes to develop Bangladesh's medical education system and health sector through evidence-based practice, as well as engage and encourage youths to make meaningful contributions in these fields.

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