On February 15, 2026, the Frank Whittle Building at Coventry University in the UK became a hive of intellectual energy as the Kurdistan Medical and Scientific Federation (KMSF) hosted its Winter Symposium, “Achieving the Extraordinary: Futures in Focus.” 

 Araz Agha, a KMSF executive member and lecturer at Coventry University’s School of Energy, told Kurdistan Chronicle that with 92 distinguished guests from across the UK, the event was more than a meeting of minds: “It was a powerful testament to the brilliance and diversity of the [Kurdish] professional diaspora.”  The atmosphere was electric as doctors, engineers, mathematicians, scientists, pharmacists, historians, and academics engaged in a day of high-level discourse.  

The symposium deliberately broke down professional silos, creating a space where medical breakthroughs were discussed alongside green energy innovations and ancient history. Araz noted a particularly moving highlight: three generations of professionals sharing the same space. From retired pioneers who helped build the community to mid-career leaders and ambitious students starting their journeys, the symposium served as a bridge, ensuring the extraordinary becomes a legacy passed from one generation to the next. 

The program featured five visionary speakers who each offered a glimpse into the future of their fields. AECOM Regional Director Dr. Nabaz Sheena opened the sessions with a compelling presentation on InfraFuture, examining the intersections of zero-carbon initiatives, artificial intelligence and infrastructure innovation. Consultant rheumatologist Dr. Iman Ali followed with “The Journey in Motion,” inspiring attendees on the collective mindset needed to achieve the extraordinary. Green energy innovator Mako Sawin provided historical perspective, exploring Kurdish history and Zagrosian religions to show how understanding cultural roots can inform our future. Endodontics specialist Dr. Sazan Talat Saman connected restorative dentistry to systemic wellbeing, outlining future impacts of oral health, and consultant dermatologist Dr. Surod Qazaz closed the technical sessions with an overview of recent advances in dermatology and skin science.

Read more: KMSF Conference: Advancing Kurdish Health and Success

The formal program flowed into a vibrant networking hour, where attendees moved from the lecture theater to the social area to exchange ideas, form new partnerships, and strengthen the UK professional community. “That social time was invaluable,” Agha said. It is worth noting that the KMSF-UK, in collaboration with the Kurdistan Regional Government 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.

Read more: Kurdistan Chronicle: Sponsors KMSF-UK Annual Conference

As KMSF continues to grow, the 2026 Winter Symposium stands as a milestone of excellence. The federation extends its deepest gratitude to the speakers, planning committee and every attendee who contributed to this success. Together, we are not just witnessing the future – we are shaping it.