The Kurdistan Medical and Scientific Federation in the UK (KMSF-UK), in collaboration with the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) representation in the UK and sponsored by Kurdistan Chronicle Foundation, held its annual conference in London on November 9, 2025, titled “Supporting Our Nation and Promoting Our Identity.”
Sayah Saied, Chair of KMSF, opened the event by extending a warm welcome to the attendees. “On behalf of the Kurdistan Medical and Scientific Federation, it is with the greatest respect and sincere appreciation that we welcome you to this conference.” She underscored the significance of the event, describing it as a vital platform for advancing knowledge, reinforcing national values, and preserving the shared identity of the Kurdish people. “This gathering serves as a forum for rigorous intellectual exchange, meaningful collaboration, and the celebration of our collective achievements,” she added.
Hiro Khoshnaw, also a KMSF Chair, thanked the Kurdistan Chronicle Foundation and other sponsors, highlighting how Kurdistan Chronicle represents the Kurdish voice around the world. She also expressed that their aim at KMSF is to unite professionals across various fields.
Botan Tahseen, the publisher of Kurdistan Chronicle, congratulated the organizers of the conference in a letter, emphasizing the importance of bridging health systems between the UK and Kurdistan. “You can contribute your expertise for the future of Kurdistan,” he stated. “Kurdistan Chronicle is proud to be one of the main sponsors of this conference.”
Karwan Jamal Tahir, the KRG’s High Representative to the UK, delivered a brief speech via video about the KRG’s role in collaborating with Kurdish communities and promoting Kurdish talent in the UK. “You have built brilliant careers, excelled in your respective professions, and become invaluable assets to the global academic community,” he said, acknowledging the contributions of KMSF. “Your consistent, high-caliber support, sharing knowledge, fostering collaborations, and supporting the next generation of researchers has a direct, positive impact on the public health sector and higher education system in the Kurdistan Region.”
He further noted that the diaspora’s role in the UK is crucial to national interests. “It is your voice that strengthens our diplomatic efforts,” he emphasized. “We must never forget the sacrifices made for the Kurdistan we have today. You, the diaspora, serve as the living memory and voice for the victims of the most horrific crimes.”
Organized by Tara Tofec, KMSF Secretary, the conference was structured into multiple sessions that tapped into the Kurdish academic diaspora. It featured stories of adaptation and resilience, as well as discussions on Kurdish history and identity. Many young professionals had the opportunity to share their journeys from Kurdistan to the UK, expressing their commitment to protecting their Kurdish heritage and contributing their expertise to Kurdistan.
Furthermore, KMSF presented an award to Dr. Fanya Ismail, founder and CEO of Sol-gel Materials & Applications Ltd (SgMA), whose diverse expertise spans the chemistry, business, and legal sectors. For over a decade, Dr. Ismail has channeled her experience from each industry to build SgMA into an advanced chemical company delivering solutions to sustainability problems through the development and applications of sol-gel technology.
KMSF-UK serves as the voice for Kurdish doctors, healthcare professionals, academics, scientists, and postgraduate certificate holders residing outside of Kurdistan. Their mission is to promote cooperation, unity, and excellence among members while advancing healthcare standards and scientific research in the Kurdistan Region. Through networking, support, and collaborative initiatives, KMSF provides valuable resources and opportunities to its members, organizing conferences, seminars, and research projects that foster knowledge exchange and career development.
