At the most recent Kurdistan Medical and Scientific Federation in the UK (KMSF-UK) conference held in London, a young technology consultant named Dr. Bawar Jalal captivated the audience with his insights. Dressed in beautiful Kurdish attire, he took to the stage to share his experiences and expertise. Dr. Jalal, who holds a PhD from the University of Nottingham, specializes in engineering research, focusing on real-time simulation tools and digital twin technologies. “I’ve always been fascinated by how we can use technology to better understand and design complex systems, and how that can make a real difference in the world,” he told Kurdistan Chronicle at the event.

The KMSF-UK, in collaboration with the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) representation in the UK and with sponsorship from the Kurdistan Chronicle Foundation, hosted its annual conference on November 9, 2025. The theme, “Supporting Our Nation and Promoting Our Identity,” resonated throughout the event.

Sayah Saied, Chair of KMSF, opened the event with a warm welcome to 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 emphasized the significance of the event 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.

Dr. Hiro Khoshnaw, another KMSF Chair, expressed gratitude to the Kurdistan Chronicle Foundation and other sponsors, highlighting how Kurdistan Chronicle represents the Kurdish voice worldwide. She noted that KMSF aims to unite professionals across various fields.

Tapping into the Kurdish academic diaspora

Organized by Tara Tofec, KMSF Secretary, the conference featured multiple sessions that tapped into the Kurdish academic diaspora. It included inspiring stories of adaptation and resilience, along with discussions on Kurdish history and identity. Many young professionals shared their journeys from Kurdistan to the UK, expressing their dedication to preserving their Kurdish heritage and contributing their expertise to Kurdistan.

Among the speakers, Dr. Jalal presented a talk titled “Empowering the Next Generation: Building a Global Tech Future for Kurdistan.” He emphasized the importance of improving technology literacy among young people in Kurdistan by providing access to skills, networks, and confidence to compete globally. “I believe that building a bridge between the Kurdish diaspora and the youth of Kurdistan can be mutually beneficial, offering the former a chance to give back and the latter long-term hope and opportunity,” he stated.

Dr. Jalal aims to empower young Kurds not only to consume technology but also to innovate with it, shaping Kurdistan’s future in the global tech landscape and creating a lasting impact.

Botan Tahseen, the publisher of Kurdistan Chronicle, congratulated the conference organizers in a letter, underscoring the importance of bridging health systems between the UK and Kurdistan. “You can contribute your expertise to 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 video address 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 acknowledged, praising the contributions of KMSF. “Your consistent, high-caliber support, sharing knowledge, fostering collaborations, and nurturing the next generation of researchers directly impacts the public health sector and higher education system in the Kurdistan Region.”

He also emphasized the crucial role of the diaspora in the UK for national interests. “It is your voice that strengthens our diplomatic efforts. 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.”

Additionally, KMSF honored Dr. Fanya Ismail, founder and CEO of Sol-gel Materials & Applications Ltd (SgMA), with an award for her diverse expertise in chemistry, business, and law. For over a decade, Dr. Ismail has leveraged her experience across various industries to transform SgMA into a leading chemical company that addresses sustainability challenges through innovative sol-gel technology.

Strong sense of responsibility

Representing Kurdistan Chronicle, I displayed magazines at the event and had the opportunity to engage with many young Kurdish professionals who have earned degrees and are striving in the UK. I was impressed to find that many of them speak Kurdish fluently and feel deep pride in their heritage. As Dr. Jalal highlighted, being Kurdish has profoundly shaped his career. “It’s given me a strong sense of adaptability. When you’re far from a community of your own people, you learn to find your place in many different worlds. It’s also taught me resilience; there are so many hoops to jump through, and not having someone to guide you often makes the journey tougher but ultimately more rewarding.”

Dr. Jalal and other young professionals I spoke with expressed a strong sense of responsibility tied to their Kurdish identity. “I’ve been fortunate to study and build my career here in the UK, and that comes with a real drive to give back, to share what I’ve learned, and to help others access the same opportunities,” he remarked. “I’m especially grateful to KMSF for creating a space where Kurdish professionals can connect and support one another while inspiring us to give back to Kurdistan in meaningful ways.”

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.