By East Africa Journal Reporter
In celebration of International Women’s Day, St. George’s University (SGU) School of Medicine in Grenada, West Indies, has shared insights from a recent panel discussion featuring accomplished female medical practitioners.
Hosted by the SGU School of Medicine Alumni Association, the discussion brought together Sasha Lake, Assistant Professor at SGU; Kumkum Sarkar Patel, a board-certified gastroenterologist; Jessica Best, an emergency medicine physician; Svjetlana Lozo, a urogynecology and pelvic reconstruction surgeon; and Angela Self, President of the Tarrant County Medical Society. The panel outlined key strategies that aspiring female doctors in Africa can apply to build successful careers in medicine.
The speakers emphasized the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance, noting that enjoying one’s professional life and fostering a positive work environment are critical to long-term success. They highlighted the value of making the most of personal time and rest days to prevent burnout, while also finding fulfillment in daily practice and working alongside supportive colleagues.
Mentorship emerged as a key theme, with the panel encouraging young professionals to seek guidance from multiple mentors. Such relationships, they noted, play a vital role in professional and academic development, helping to build confidence and provide clarity on career pathways.
The discussion also underscored the importance of building strong support networks. Whether through family, friends, or colleagues, a reliable support system helps medical professionals navigate the challenges of training and practice while fostering resilience.
In addition, the panelists encouraged women to understand and embrace their leadership strengths. Developing a personal leadership style and recognizing one’s unique potential were identified as essential steps toward career advancement in the medical field.
They further highlighted the diverse career paths available in medicine, encouraging aspiring doctors to explore different specialties and remain open to change. This flexibility, they noted, can enhance long-term engagement and professional fulfillment.
Brendon LaGrenade, Vice Provost and Director of Alumni Affairs at SGU, emphasized the importance of supporting and celebrating female doctors.
“We are proud to acknowledge our female doctors who continue to provide excellent care and make a difference in their patients’ lives every day. Their dedication and perseverance serve as an inspiration to young women in Africa who aspire to pursue medicine,” he said. “As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, the contributions of female doctors will be instrumental in shaping the future of patient care, medical innovation, and leadership in the field.”
With women now making up just over 50 percent of SGU’s recent incoming medical classes, the next generation of female doctors is increasingly breaking barriers and shaping the future of medicine, supported by mentorship, resilience, and strong professional networks fostered by the institution.
For more information about SGU and its programmes, visit the university’s website.
