2024-2025 ISSUE: five
Dilar zeravan
Duhok LEO
Hello,I’mdilarzeravansaeedalsojustdlar,andI’m thelocalexchangeofficerinduhok’slocalboard.I am a 2nd stage medical student in the university ofduhok.
I was born and raised in the city of mountains, duhok. I would say the biggest step into adulthoodwaswhenIgotmydriver’slicenseand most priced positions in my wallet. Taking a step back, as a child I hated the bitter taste of coffee whichisfunnybecausethethingthatdefinesme is my chronic addiction to coffee and procrastinationwhichhasmadeforaninteresting lifestyle.AlthoughpeoplefindthethingsIdoabit boringIlovereadingbooks,watchingsunsets,and most importantly I love talking but the thing that takesthetopofthelistiswalking,Ijustenjoyita lotand italsoforcesmetogoexploreplacesand meet people. If you ask me about my academic lifeIwouldsayI’vebeenavictimsofarandasfor something that brings me joy it’s the thank you slides in lectures. The things that drives me on is my very unrealistic exceptions of having fun clinical years and the date of my graduation. 2 corememoriesIhaveiswhenIhitmyheadonthe AC unit not once but twice and back to back on the day I registered myself in university and also when my wallet got stolen on my first day of university and I had to stick a statement of a stolen wallet and my number on doors. “At the end of the day I don’t have a wallet because you can’t loss one if you don’t have one” -plato or someonegreek.
Hello, my name is Diya Omed, a fourth-year medical student at the University of Kurdistan Hewler (UKH). I am honored to serve as one of theLocalExchangeOfficers(LEOs)ofHawler-LC. Being a part of IFMSA-Kurdistan has been an incredible journey that has shaped my personal andprofessionaldevelopment.
I am passionate about cultural exchange and globalhealth,whichiswhybeingpartofIFMSAKurdistan has been such an exciting and fulfillingjourneyforme.Iabsolutelylovethecity ofHawler,andifellmoreinlovewiththeitafter making so many memories these four years of studying in it, now that i come back home to slemani I absolutely miss hawler and its warm, welcoming people. with its rich history, vibrant culture, I believe our city and region have so much to offer, from its breathtaking landscapes to its unique traditions, and I can't wait for our incomingexchangestudentstoexperienceitall.
I am very excited about the social programs we have planned, and can’t wait for our lovely incoming to experience it as they provide a fantastic opportunity to introduce our guests to the beauty of Kurdistan and its healthcare system.Ibelievetheseprogramsnotonlycreate unforgettable memories but also foster deeper cultural understanding and global friendships. Afterallonlyourmemoriesstaywithus.
I truly enjoy our emergency shifts, as they are always full of unique and memorable experiences.Onecasethatstoodouttomewas a102-year-oldmalepatientwhowasanabsolute delight to talk to. I was taking his history, and despite his condition-a case of heart failure and alzheimers—he had such a warm and endearing presence.Hisgrandson,wasaccompanyinghim, I adore elderly, and moments like these make me wish our grandparents could stay with us forever.
Greetings!
I’mHoshmandHundren,oneofthethreeLEOsof Erbil, and a third-stage medical student at Hawler Medical University. I’d like to take this opportunity to introduce myself and share a bit aboutmybackgroundandhobbies.
Hoshmand Hundren Hawler LEO
I was born on 4/14/2004—a Wednesday (4şem in Kurdish)—and I’m the youngest of five siblings. I have a straightforward personality and value honesty, especially when it comes to expressing myopinionsandbeliefs.
As a child, my favorite hobby was playing Yu-GiOh!, but these days, football it is. I not only love playing but also enjoy watching the game, with Frank Lampard being the first player I admired. I also enjoy table tennis, pool, chess, and other board games—most of which I’ve picked up recently. Before college, I was more into gaming, butmyinterestshavesplitmoreovertime.
My dream is to be someone people remember fondly. I believe that’s entirely achievable as a doctor,aslongasyou’rededicatedtodoingyour job properly. Medicine offers countless opportunities to improve individual lives, and that’swhatinspiredmetopursuethisfield.
Hi there! I’m Aland Herish, a third-year medical student at Hawler Medical University. My time in med school has been a mix of learning, growing,andconnectingwithothers.Myroleas a Local Exchange Officer (LEO), has given me the chance to help students explore new cultures and experiences while learning from eachother.
I’msomeonewholovesagoodchallengeandis always curious about the world. I enjoy problem-solving, whether it’s figuring out creative solutions in my work or tackling personalchallenges.Outsideofstudying,Ihave abunchofhobbiesthatkeepmegrounded,it’s always fun to step out of my comfort zone. These moments remind me that life is about more than just achieving goals—it’s also about findingjoyandexpressingyourself.
Oneofmybiggestdreamsistotraveltheworld.
I’m fascinated by different cultures, traditions, and ways of life. I think experiencing these firsthand is one of the best ways to grow as a person. I also believe that small actions can make a big difference, whether it’s lending a handtoafriend,givingbacktomycommunity, or taking steps toward something meaningful. For me, it’s all about making an impact and bringing people together to make life a little brighterforeveryone.
Aland Herish Hawler LEO
MynameisAreenBahzadOthman,andI’ma20year-old second-year medical student at the FacultyofGeneralMedicineinKoya.BornonMay 22,2004,inKoya,IproudlycarrymyGeminispirit, whichfuelsmycuriosityandpassionforexploring theworldaroundme.
Thisyear,IamhonoredtoserveasaLeoofIFMSA Koya, a role that allows me to connect with amazingindividualsandcontributetomeaningful initiatives. Medicine is my calling, and I aspire to become an exceptional surgeon who not only saves lives but also inspires others. Alongside my academic journey, I cherish the joys of traveling and discovering new places, Switzerland is high onmylist
I’mafirmbelieverinmakinglifefun,whichiswhy I love all kinds of games, from board games to video games. Swimming is one of my favorite activities,andIenjoylearningnewlanguagesasit opens doors to different cultures. I also find immense joy in rainy and snowy weather, while summerisnotmyfavoriteseason.
Food and shopping are my ultimate guilty pleasures, and I adore spending time with my family, who mean the world to me. I love talking andspendingtimewithmyfriends,asmeaningful conversations bring me happiness. I’m drawn to people who are smart, crazy, calm, positive, and gentle—qualitiesthatreflectmyoutlookonlife.
Forme,lifeisaboutembracingthelittlejoys,from giving and receiving thoughtful gifts to building connections with people. As part of IFMSA, I’m excited to contribute my energy and passion to this incredible community. Here’s to making a differencetogether.
Greetings,dearfamily.
My name is Zhyar Hoshyar, and I am a secondyear medical student at the University of Sulaimani. It is an incredible honor for me to serve as the Local Exchange Officer (LEO) of IFMSA-Kurdistanforthisterm.
BornandraisedinthevibrantcityofSulaimani,I have always been fascinated by the ways people come together to create meaningful change. While medicine is my academic pursuit, my interests extend far beyond the lecture halls and clinical settings. I am deeply passionate about football, a sport that has taught me teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. When I’m not studying,you’lllikelyfindmeatthegym,whereI channelmyenergyandmaintainmyfocus.These activitiesarenotjusthobbies—theyareintegralto mypersonalgrowthandbalance.
What truly inspired me to join IFMSA-Kurdistan and step into the role of LEO was witnessing the transformative impact this organization has on individuals and communities. From fostering global connections to promoting cultural and medical exchange, IFMSA has set a remarkable exampleofunityandcollaboration.Tocontribute to such a vision is both a privilege and a responsibilityItakeveryseriously.
I often describe myself as a bit of a perfectionist. WhetherI’morganizinganeventorpreparingfor an exam, I strive for precision and excellence. WhilesomemightcallitatouchofOCD,Ibelieve it reflects my dedication and determination to see every task through to its best possible outcome.
I firmly believe that everyone has a unique purposeinlife,andweareallworkingtirelesslyto fulfill it. For me, this purpose lies in giving my absolute best—whether in academics, personal growth,ormyrolewithinIFMSA-Kurdistan.
As we embark on this term, I am excited to build bridges, foster meaningfulrelationships,andleavea positive legacy in this organization. Together, let’s make this a term to remember!
I’m Arev Haval Majeed, a second-year medical student at the University of Sulaimani. It’s a heartfeltprivilegetoserveasyourLocalExchange Officer(LEO)forIFMSA-Kurdistanthisterm.
If you know me, you probably know that I’m alwayssmilingandbringinggoodvibeswherever Igo.Ibelievethatnomatterhowchallenginglife gets, a positive attitude can make all the difference—not just for ourselves, but for those aroundus.
I was born and raised in the lively city of Sulaimani, where I learned the value of community and collaboration early on. While my academicjourneyinmedicinecanbedemanding, I find balance through my hobbies—whether it’s playing football, hitting the gym, or simply spendingtimewithfriends.Thesemomentsofjoy and connection keep me grounded and reminding me why I chose to pursue a path in healthcare.
Joining IFMSA-Kurdistan has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. This organization doesn’t just create opportunities for professional growth—it shapes people. IFMSAKurdistan has taught me the importance of cultural exchange, adaptability, and teamwork, while giving me a platform to connect with amazingpeoplewhoinspiremeeveryday.Others often say I’m a source of energy and encouragement,butItrulybelievethatbeingpart ofthiscommunityhasbroughtoutthebestinme.
As LEO, my goal is to make every exchange experience as seamless and meaningful as possible. I want to empower students to discover new cultures, share their knowledge, and form lifelong connections. IFMSA-Kurdistan has given mesomuch,andI’mcommittedtogivingbackby helping others create experiences they’ll cherish forever.
I’m Piroz Ramadhan Abdullah, a 22-year-old medical student from Dohuk-Zakho. I am currently in my fourth year at the University of Zakho-CollegeofMedicine,andIproudlyserve as the Local Exchange Officer (LEO) of the Local Board Zakho. I gladly joined IFMSA-Kurdistan in 2023 because of my deep passion for global health initiatives, cultural exchanges, and fosteringcollaborationamongfuturehealthcare professionalsworldwide.
Mygoalistocontributesignificantlytoourlocal health services and awareness campaigns by promoting a healthier lifestyle, enhancing understanding of health and illnesses, and educating community members of all ages — fromtheyoungesttotheoldest.Ibelievehealth education is a foundation for community empowerment.
Within IFMSA-Kurdistan, I trust my skills in teamwork, leadership, integrity, adaptability, time management, dedication, patience, problem-solving, cultural awareness, and public speaking will allow me to make a meaningful impact. These qualities, combined with my determination, can contribute significantly to both my personal growth and the development oftheorganization.
For 2024-2025, I took my membership and responsibilities a step further by taking on the position of Local Exchange Officer (LEO). Exchanges, in my view, are crucial not only internationally but also locally. Even within culturally connected communities, exchanges can foster understanding of subtle cultural differences, promote unity, and enrich personal learningexperiences.
Outside of academics, I am passionateaboutlearninglanguages like Japanese and Spanish, while Kurdish remains the core language thatIstrivetomasterandpreserve.I amalsoanavidfanofnature,where I find peace and inspiration, and I enjoy immersing myself in Korean dramas, which fuel my love for storytellinganddiversecultures.
I look forward to growing, contributing, and learning within this incredible organization, driven by optimism and a shared vision for ahealthierfuture.
Hello,dearIFMSA-Kurdistanmembers. Myname is Jodi Ramadan Haji Qadir Mohammad Qadir MohammadQadirTaha,andIamastudentatthe University of Duhok, College of Medicine. I have been part of the International Federation of Medical Students Association - Kurdistan - Duhok forsixyearsnow.
I am the new Local Officer on Research Exchange forDuhokforthetermtwothousandtwentyfourtwothousandtwentyfive.Iwouldliketothankthe nationals and the newsletter for giving me the opportunitytotalkaboutmyselfin300words.
I do not like artificial intelligence-generated content, so that is why I am writing this myself (well, technically, I’m typing). I am a sixth-year student, also known as a stagiaire, and I do touch typing. My words per minute is 120 at my best. I am a Barcelona Football Club and Chelsea FootballClubfan,soyoucanimaginemeinpain.I play football as a center-back and have watched TheOfficethreetimes.
I am very interested in the world of neuroscience anditsapplicationsinourdailylife.Religionisalso averyimportantpartofmylife(IamMuslim).
My back hurts because of bad posture, so this is your posture check if you were waiting for one. I hate cats, energy drinks, and coffee, but I have a certain routine I always follow before my OSCE exams. I wake up 5 hours before the exam and drink coffee, and then 30 minutes before the exam, I drink a Red Bull. Mind you, this is not scientifically proven or anything; it’s just somethingIdoforfun.
I dream of making research a part of the curriculum at the University of Duhok, College of Medicine.
Thankyou
Hello my name is Abdulrahman and I’m the LORE of Hawler-LC. I aim to enhance research quality within our community through connecting medical students to the research field’s experts through which they learn, share their knowledge, and collaborate with peers and doctors to ultimately conduct research that benefitsoursociety.
IamLaweenamedicalstudentfromuniversity of zakho/ college of medicine i have joined IFMSA family since 2022 and the source of inspirationformetojointhisorganizationwas there health projects for public and other projects for developing medical skills of students i have participated in many projects before such as blood donation day, breast cancer awareness project and health festivals and i have participated in the previous two national assembly which were really good experience and i have lead some other projectslikepeshmargaprojectwhichwetake vitals like Bp, blood glucose measure and many other measures like BMI for peshmarga andwegivethemmedicalinformationwritten in papers, i present another lecture about medicalethicswhichwasanotherproject,and nowihavethelocalofficerpositionofresearch exchange it is really another interesting experience since i have many information about research before and i participated in 2 researchs before one was about DM and anotheroneaboutpepticulcer.
Hello!!MynameisHanaSarwatTahir.I’m19years old and a second year medical student. My position is the local officer of research exchange onKoya’slocalboard.
I am originally from Halabja, but i grew up in slemani. I graduated from Classical School of the Medes-slemani.
Medical school is very busy and tiring , as we are all aware, therefore it is very important for me to still cut out pieces of time for personal enjoyments. This is one of the main reasons I joined IFMSA, because it provided a bridge between both of them. I was able to socialize, relax, and have fun, with the added bonus of learning important information that will guide methroughmedicalschool.
One habit from high school that I try my hardest not to break is reading. No matter how hard my school work was i spent at least a few minutes a day reading. I mostly enjoy reading classic literature. It is very interesting how there are certain scenarios that keep repeating, whether it isthroughpersonalsocialandworklives,oreven political, and the lessons in them are still applicable today. It provides a feeling of comfort, knowing people had similar problems and feelings as us now a hundred years ago. Those feelings are what connects the past to the present.
My name is Bala, I am twenty one years old and I am currently a fourth year medical student.Asamedicalstudentthereisalotof work that needs focus towards studying, and forthisreasonIhavetriedtofindareaswhere I can interact with people in my free time fromschoolwork.
Being part of IFMSA-Kurdistan is one of the mostfulfillingandenjoyingthingsIhaveever done throughout my medical school years. I joined this organization due to the fact that I wished to make friends with other students and go beyond the 4 walls of rooms, their textbooks, and lectures. IFMSA enhances opportunities for students to participate in different health programs and to exchange views on medicine and public health issues throughnumerousprojectsandactivities.This participationhasnotonlyincreasedmysocial circle but also enabled me to take part in several projects aimed at improving the lives ofpeopleinthesociety.
In addition to these academic and IFMSA activities,Ialsoliketoplayfootball.Inmyfree time, football helps me to relax from the pressure of books. It helps me to be fit and healthy, have time to spend with friends, and students.
Markous Duhok LORP
My name is Christian Markous and I’m a second-year medical student at the University of Duhok. I’m passionate about both medicine and making a difference in my community. Currently, I’m serving as the LocalOfficerofHumanRightsandPeacefor DuhokLocalCommitteeinIFMSA-Kurdistan. This role has given me the chance to promote human rights, spread awareness, and work on projects that aim to create positivechange.
I absolutely love making projects, whether it’s organizing training sessions to educate others about human rights or coordinating activitieslikepatientvisitstobringhopeand kindness. Creating something impactful and seeingitmakeadifferenceisoneofthemost rewardingfeelingsforme.
Outsideofmyacademicandadvocacywork, I have a few things that make me incredibly happy. Dolma is my absolute favorite food, it’s comforting and always reminds me of home and family gatherings. My favorite seasonisChristmas—it’ssuchamagicaltime of the year filled with joy, warmth, and togetherness,whichItrulyvalue.
I also have a deep love for traveling. Exploring new places, meeting different people, and experiencing unique cultures always fills me with excitement and inspiration.Travelinghelpsmeseetheworld from different perspectives, which fuels my passion for connecting with others and makingadifferenceintheirlives.
Musicisanotherbigpartofmylife.Whether I’m exercising, relaxing, or traveling, I always have a playlist to accompany me. I enjoy different genres of music, as they help me focus, unwind, and express my emotions. Music inspires me and adds a rhythm to my daily life, making even ordinary moments feelspecial.
Forme,lifeisaboutconnection,compassion, and creativity. Whether I’m exercising, working on a project, traveling to new destinations,listeningtomusic,orenjoyinga delicious plate of dolma, I’m always striving to make the most of every moment and leaveapositiveimpactonthepeoplearound me.
HelloIFMSA-KurdistanFamily, IamTahaDouraydFadhel,proudlyservingas theLocalOfficerofHumanRightsandPeace for Hawler LC, a role that deeply resonates with my personal values and life philosophy. Each day, I strive to make a positive impact onothers’livesandmyown,andthisposition enables me to fulfill that mission, truly embodyinga“two-in-one”opportunity.
Allow me to share a bit about my background.IwasborninBaghdad,raisedin Hawler, while being originally from slemani, attending a catholic kindergarten in a muslim family to being at a school for 12 years with my best friend being a yazidi, complicated and diverse? Well this says it all for me, a life filled with diversity and experiences that I wouldn’t change a second of. I am committed to embracing a wide range of experiences and continually expanding my knowledge. I actively pursue diverse interests and exercise self-discipline to maintain a balanced and healthy lifestyle. A passion of mine lies in martial arts and everythingaboutit,Iwentonajourneyfrom boxingtomauythaitowrestlingandjiujitsu now, a healthy body is a healthy mind they say but other than that through consistent practice, I have developed discipline, resilience, and a deeper understanding of myself,allofwhichhavebeeninstrumentalin my personal growth so I recommend it to everyone.
Taha Dourayd Fadhel Hawler LORP
Afunfactaboutme?
IjoinedIFMSA-Kurdistanonmyveryfirstday at university! This organization has been an exhilarating rollercoaster, offering invaluable lessons about people and the workings of systemic and cultural dynamics. With a business-oriented mindset and relentless determination,Iamcommittedtoleveraging thisplatformtoitsfullestpotential,aimingto servethoseinneed.
While this message centers on my journey, I mustexpressmydeepestgratitudetotheMy fellow members of the Standing Committee of Hawler LC. Each member has been nothing short of exceptional. Additionally, I extend heartfelt thanks to the entire IFMSAKurdistan family for transforming this experienceintoareality—onethatwillforever holdacherishedplaceinmystory.
Koya LORP
My name is Bezhan Nawzad Syan, and I am currently studying at Koya University, college of medicine. If I had to describe myself in one phrase, it would be “driven by passion and purpose.” From a young age, I’ve believed in pursuing what excites me while contributing to theworldaroundme.Thisbeliefhasshapedmy journey and inspired me to embrace challenges asopportunitiesforgrowth.
I’ve always been drawn to activities that push me to learn and give back. Whether it’s volunteering with a local organization, participating in student clubs, or leading initiatives, I find joy in making a difference. Fulfillment comes not only from personal achievements but also from the impact I can have on others. These experiences have taught me the value of empathy, teamwork, and perseverance.
Beyond academics, I value creativity and exploration.Ienjoywriting,painting,andplaying theguitarastheyhelpmerechargeandexpress myself. My family plays a crucial role in my life— they ground me and remind me of the importanceofstayingconnectedtomyroots,no matterwheremyambitionstakeme.
Looking ahead, my vision for this year is to immerse myself in my studies and extracurriculars while making meaningful contributions to my community. I aim to step outofmycomfortzone,takeonleadershiproles, and work toward a brighter, more inclusive future.
Success, for me, lies in the journey and the connectionswemakealongtheway.
GreetingsIFMSAfriends,
My name is Mand, and I am a quiet yet determined second-year medical student at the University of Slemani. I believe in doing mybestineverythingIpursue,alwaysstriving to approach challenges in my own unique way. I was born and raised in Slemani, surroundedbyalovingandsupportivefamily whohavebeenmybackbonethroughoutmy journey.
Since childhood, I have been deeply fascinated by football. The sport has taught me about maintaining a competitive spirit. My favorite player, aside from the GOAT, is Neymar. Whether playing football with my friends or watching matches, it has always been a source of energy and inspiration for me.
Apart from football, I had a passion for writing short stories and diaries, which I pursued actively until 12th grade. I even createdapersonalservertostoremywritings, which I still keep to this day, though I rarely add to it anymore. Writing was my way of expressing my thoughts, and it remains a cherished hobby, even if it's less frequent now.
Iliketobeuniqueanddifferent,bringingmy own creative approaches to challenges and situations.
Mand Faraidun Abdalkarim Sulaimani LORP
I also enjoy watching movies, particularly action and comedy genres, as they help me unwindandbalancemybusyschedule.
Choosing medicine as my career path stemmed from my desire to help those around me, especially close friends and familymembersdealingwithillnesses.Ihave always been admiring of the complexity of the human body and its ability to heal and adapt. At the same time, I’ve always had a love for mathematics, solving problems, and sometimes—admittedly—being the problem myself!
I enjoy keeping busy for meaningful causes, especially when it comes to helping the underprivileged who truly deserve support. Being part of IFMSA-Kurdistan excites me because it offers the opportunity to work collaboratively for impactful change and learnfromincrediblepeoplealongtheway.
MynameisMeena,andIam22yearsold.Iamfrom Zakho, a city I am proud to call home. Currently, I ampursuingmystudiesattheCollegeofMedicine, University of Zakho, where I am working hard to achievemydreamofbecomingadoctor.Alongside my studies, I am honored to serve as the Local Officer of Human Rights and Peace for the Zakho Local Committee this year. This role has provided me with a platform to address critical social issues and advocate for the principles of justice, equality, and harmony. It has been a fulfilling experience to workwithindividualsandorganizationscommitted to making a positive impact in our community. Whether through organizing events, raising awareness,orsupportingthoseinneed,Iamproud tobecontributingtothisimportantcause.
I believe that health and human rights are deeply interconnected,andmydualfocusonmedicineand socialjusticereflectsthisbelief.Asafuturedoctor,I aim to address not only the physical well-being of my patients but also the social and emotional challengestheymayface.Mygoalistobeavoicefor the vulnerable and a source of hope for those in difficultcircumstances.
This journey has taught me valuable lessons about leadership, resilience, and compassion. I have learnedthatchangestartswithindividualswhoare willing to take a stand and work tirelessly for what they believe in. While the road is not always easy, I am driven by the belief that every effort, no matter how small, contributes to a better and brighter futureforall.
In the years to come, I hope to continue growing both personally and professionally. I aspire to use my skills and knowledge to serve my community, inspire others, and contribute to building a society thatvalueshealth,peace,andhumandignity.
