The World Neurology Foundation’s mission to promote neurological services and education in resource-limited settings extends to directly supporting neurology trainees and students globally. It is our belief that the future of neurology is bright because of the trainees and students who are poised to be the next generation of leaders in the field. With this in mind, we have launched the WNFO Advisory Council, which is composed of trainees and students dedicated to the mission of global neurology and the vision of the WNFO.
What is the Advisory Council?
The Advisory Council is a select group of trainees and students passionate about the field of neurology in the context of global health. Acting as advisors to the organization's leadership, the Advisory Council members will play a crucial part in driving the WNFO's agenda forward shaping the future of neurology for years to come. Their primary role is to offer strategic guidance, provide feedback, and share insights on critical matters concerning the WNFO's mission and initiatives.
Why was the Advisory Council created?
The purpose of the WNFO Advisory Council is to provide a platform for selected trainees and students to have a voice in shaping the direction of the WNFO’s efforts to improve neurology education and services worldwide, particularly in resource-limited settings. The diverse educational and training backgrounds of the newly appointed Advisory Council members supports the WNFO’s ability to promote its initiatives from the unique lens of trainees and students.
Through collaboration with WNFO leadership, the Advisory Council will work to promote excellence in training and research, encourage trainee involvement in global health initiatives, and foster a diverse and inclusive community. The council further aims to support a strong, sustainable network of future leaders in the field of global neurology, contributing to the organization's mission of promoting health equity and improving the lives of people with neurological conditions worldwide.
What opportunities are provided for members?
Being a part of the Advisory Council presents members with a host of unique opportunities and benefits:
Advisory Council members will gain a first-hand perspective and insight into the WNFO’s operations that help run the organization’s numerous programs and initiatives.
Members will have the opportunity to undertake an independent ‘Advisory Project’ that will help promote a unique aspect of the WNFO’s programming, ranging from the WNFO blog to our newly launched Global Neurology Research Hub. They will work closely with our internal teams to improve the quality and effectiveness of the WNFO’s operational efforts.
The council will serve as a platform for networking, allowing members to build connections and collaborate with other global neurology enthusiasts from around the world.
"As the field of global neurology is still somewhat in its infancy, I believe it is incredibly important that those of us who share this passion are connected with one another so that we can work together and coordinate our efforts toward improving neurological care around the world." -Samuel Eitenbichler, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, USA
Who are the inaugural members?
The inaugural members of the WNFO Advisory Council are trainees and students who have demonstrated academic and clinical excellence, along with demonstrating an earnest passion for global neurology. Among them are:
Alexandra Santana Almansa, MD - Boston Children's Hospital, USA
Faris Almubaslat, MD, MPH - University of North Carolina, USA
Idha Sood, MBBS - Christian Medical College and Hospital, India
Micky Bacchus, BS - Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, USA
Muhammad Azeem, MBBS - Azad Jammu & Kashmir Medical College, Pakistan
Namarig Alnil - Helwan University, Egypt
Nirbha Ghurye, MBBS - Northwell Health South Shore University Hospital, USA
Samuel Eitenbichler - Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, USA
William “Adam” Libling, MBS - Midwestern University, USA
"Keenly aware of the disparities that arise due to resource limitations, the mission and vision of the WNFO led me to believe that the Advisory Council will aid me to be more dynamically involved in the noble effort of making high-quality neurological care more accessible to all." -Nirbha Ghurye, Northwell Health South Shore University Hospital, USA
With the establishment of the Advisory Council, the World Neurology Foundation embarks on a transformative journey to make a lasting impact in the field of neurology. Through strategic guidance, collaboration, and knowledge exchange, this select group of experts will drive innovation, advocate for change, and improve the lives of millions affected by neurological disorders worldwide.
Soonmyung A. Hwang is the Program Director of the World Neurology Foundation and is also currently an MD-MPH candidate at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York. He completed his undergraduate studies at Johns Hopkins University with General and Departmental Honors, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Neuroscience and Public Health Studies. Soonmyung’s academic and research interests lie at the intersection of neurology, global health and digital health technology. Throughout his academic career, he has authored four peer-reviewed articles in the research literature, and has presented thirteen abstracts at national and international conferences.