Meet Our Community
Dr Johann Malawana
Founder and CEO of Medics.Academy & HLA
Johann has been in leadership roles for more than 20 years. He founded The HLA to address many issues he faced and witnessed in his career. Johann wanted to create focus and attention on developing students and professionals earlier in their careers. The HLA intends to support these individuals so they can take up leadership roles more confidently and improve the health systems they are part of.
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Johann was a former President of Barts and The London Students’ Association, a former University of London Medical Students’ Officer at ULU and the founding Editor of The Medical Student. Following the crisis caused by Modernising Medical Careers (MMC) via Medical Training Application System (MTAS) in March 2007, Johann took over the Education and Training portfolio at the BMA in September 2007. He was responsible for a lot of detailed negotiations around the education and training environment in medicine for the next three years till 2010. Johann subsequently has held several roles including on the Boards of the General Medical Council, the Postgraduate Medical Education and Training Board, the Institute of Leadership and Management, the Healthcare Leadership Academy. He was also the lead for Education and Training at Healthcare UK at the Department for International Trade.
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Johann served as an advisor on several reviews of the medical education environment with a strong belief in the need for strong medical leadership and the power of early-stage clinicians and students to be a force for good in the NHS. Many of the engagement strategies developed for these reviews were a direct result of the work Johann undertook.
Dr Sarah Malawana
Clinical Programmes Manager / Lead Tutor
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Dr. Sarah Malawana is the Clinical Programmes Manager at Medics.Academy, where she combines her extensive academic expertise and clinical experience to advance medical education. She graduated with an MBBS from Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry and holds an MSc in Clinical Dermatology from King’s College London. Additionally, she completed a BSc in Physiology from the University of Bristol, reflecting her interdisciplinary approach to healthcare.
Her commitment to innovation in healthcare education led her to Medics.Academy, where she plays a pivotal role in developing and delivering impactful programmes. In her role, Dr. Malawana inspires the next generation of healthcare professionals, drawing on her deep-rooted dedication to excellence and her leadership skills. Her work continues to make a significant contribution to the field of medical education.
Professor Derek Gallen
Chief of Education
Derek Gallen, serving as the Chief of Education at Medics.Academy, brings a wealth of expertise to the realm of education management. With a distinguished background as a Professor Emeritus, he has showcased his proficiency in lecturing, educational technology, instructional design, curriculum development, and public speaking.
Graduating from UCH, Derek has led the charge in educating and training doctors, holding positions such as postgraduate dean for Wales and UK national director of the foundation programme. Founding member of the academy of medical educators and past president of the Association for the study of medical education, Derek remains at the forefront of shaping the trajectory of medical education.
Additionally, he boasts an impressive literary portfolio, having authored seven books on education and leadership. Derek's dedication transcends the academic sphere showcasing his unwavering commitment to advancing the field through both professional and voluntary channels.
Dr. George Miller
HLA Director General
George Miller is an accomplished healthcare leader and policy advocate with extensive experience in academia and international development. As an International Council Member at Action Against Hunger, he works on initiatives to combat global hunger and improve healthcare access in underserved communities. He is also the Leadership And Activism Committee Vice-President at Amnesty International. Over six years of dedicated service as the Chairman of the HLA Executive at The Healthcare Leadership Academy, he has helped thousands of clinicians develop and advance their leadership careers across the world.
His academic journey includes a degree from the University of Oxford, where he conducted research on social policy analysis and the nexus between evidence and policy. He also graduated from King's College London with a medical degree and bachelors degree, receiving First Class Honours, and pursued a Masters of Science in Public Health with a specialisation in Health Service Management from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, University of London.
George's contributions to academia are evident through his publication of over 30 scholarly works and his receipt of prestigious awards such as the BAUS Essay Competition: National First Prize and the AACA Keith and Marion Moore Blue Box Award, underscoring his dedication to advancing healthcare excellence and innovation.
Dr. Hiba Khan
Chief Revenue Officer
Hiba Khan is a Doctor in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, NHS England Clinical Entrepreneur, Honorary Lecturer at The University of Central Lancashire and Chief Revenue Officer at Medics.Academy.
She has a background in entrepreneurship, innovation and solutions in healthcare and was recently awarded an Innovation Fellowship at Mid and South Essex NHS Trust to continue this work. Hiba runs the development function at Medics.Academy and oversees a global team of executives. As a recently selected member of the UK Young Academy, Hiba works in this national research collaborative to influence policy and raise awareness of science and research in the UK.
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She also has experience in governance as Vice-Chair of the Board at Queen Mary University Students’ Union and Chair of their Audit and Risk Committee as well as being Governor on the Board of the University of West London Workforce Committee.
Hiba has won several awards for research and performance in her clinical roles, a national award in quality improvement, two consecutive “Outstanding Trainee” awards and a gold medal in regional weightlifting.
Dr. Yusuf Karmali
Clinical Programme Executive
Yusuf is a Medics.Academy Programme Manager, Clinical Lead for the Medics.Academy Fellows Programme and a Foundation Year doctor, graduated from Barts and The London School of Medicine. Throughout medical school, Yusuf was awarded numerous prizes for outstanding academic achievement and he delivered high-quality peer-teaching through student-led societies, in which he held various positions of leadership.
His passion for education led to him joining Medics.Academy in July 2018, where he started as a fellow and lead author on the clinical genetics course. He went on to become a member of the Medics.Academy team this year this year as a Clinical Programme Manager and then has been the Clinical Lead on the highly successful Medics.Academy Fellowship Programme. He is also part of the F|Docs Faculty where he leads teaching sessions for foundation year doctors, and also enjoys teaching medical students as part of the S|Docs Programme. His other interests include medical technology and health policy.
Dr Carina Dawson
Academic Tutor
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Dr. Carina Dowson is a distinguished figure in the realm of healthcare, holding multiple roles that exemplify her expertise, leadership, and commitment to advancing the field and serving as an Academic Tutor at Medics.Academy. As an Acute Medicine Consultant Physician and Clinical Lead, she brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to her practice, ensuring the highest standards of patient care and clinical excellence.
She also serves as the HLA Director Development Executive & Cohort Director, where she plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of healthcare leadership through innovative programs and initiatives. Her dedication to empowering women in healthcare leadership is evident in her role as the Women in Healthcare Leadership Network Lead, where she advocates for gender equity and fosters opportunities for female professionals to thrive and excel in their careers.
Additionally, she holds the esteemed position of Honorary Clinical Tutor at UCLan, where she imparts her wisdom and expertise to the next generation of medical professionals. A graduate of Newcastle University with a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree, she furthered her academic pursuits at Lancaster University, earning a Master of Science (MS) in Medical Leadership. Her tireless dedication to healthcare, coupled with her visionary leadership, makes her a revered figure in the medical community, leaving an indelible mark on the field for years to come.
Dr. Soham Bandyopadhyay
Academic Tutor
Dr. Soham Bandyopadhyay is a dedicated leader in the field of public health and healthcare management, currently serving as the Cohort Director at The Healthcare Leadership Academy. He earned his Master's degree in Public Health from the prestigious London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, University of London. With a strong commitment to education, Dr. Bandyopadhyay also holds a certification in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL), enhancing his ability to communicate effectively across diverse audiences.
His expertise is widely recognized through his extensive publications and research contributions. In addition to his academic achievements, he has received numerous awards for his contributions to research and scholarship. He was honoured with the Study Protocol of the Year award by the Journal of Surgical Protocols and Research Methodologies in March 2024, recognizing the significance of his methodological contributions. Furthermore, he has been a recipient of the prestigious Thompson Family Scholarship, which reflects his dedication to academic excellence and leadership in healthcare. Through his innovative research, teaching endeavours, and commitment to excellence, Dr. Soham Bandyopadhyay continues to make a profound impact on the field of public health and healthcare leadership.
Dr. Milan Makwana
Academic Tutor
Dr Milan Makwana is an Academic tutor, and he has completed his doctorate in Neuroscience and medical school at UCL. He subsequently completed medical Foundation Training in 2014 at the Royal Free Hospital in London. He is currently a Specialist Trainee in Neurosurgery at University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff.
Milan completed his PGCert in Clinical Leadership, Management and Education as part of the Healthcare Leadership Academy (HLA) and has continued to be part of the HLA community and its development with a current role as lead tutor for the IL-1 course.
His journey in academia has been marked by a dedication to empowering students to reach their full potential. As an Academic Module Tutor, he meticulously crafts engaging curriculum frameworks, leveraging her expertise to cultivate dynamic learning environments that inspire and challenge his students.
His pedagogical approach is characterised by its inclusivity and adaptability, as he recognizes the diverse needs and learning styles of her students. Beyond the classroom, he is a staunch advocate for educational reform, actively participating in initiatives aimed at enhancing teaching practices and educational policies.
Dr. Owens Iguodala
Academic Tutor
Dr. Owens is a dually qualified dentist and pharmacist, undergoing dental core training in Paediatric Dentistry, having completed rotations in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and the Public Dental Service. As of September 2024, he will be completing a year as Clinical Fellow for the Chief Dental Officer (England) Fellowship with NHS Transformation Directorate.
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In 2020, Owens joined HLA Amsterdam as a Scholar and has since acted as mentor, Dental Network Co-Lead and this year became Cohort Director for the Edinburgh Cohort. Since dental school, Owens has had experience in leadership positions, including being British Dental Student Association (BDSA) representative, Policy Officer for the European Dental Student Association (EDSA), and most recently being Chair for the Dental Trainee Committee at the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow. Owens’ interests outside clinical practice, include innovation, mentoring and widening participation.
He completed multiple national programmes including the NHS Clinical Entrepreneur Programme, NHS Edward Jenner Programme. He also completed a PGCert with Medics Academy and UCLan in Clinical Practice, Management, and Education with a distinction and since joined the team as an Academic Tutor for the Leader as a Follower Module and TEL Modules.
Dr. Beryl De Souza
Academic Tutor
Dr. Beryl De Souza is a seasoned academic with a multifaceted background that enriches her role as an Academic Module Tutor. With a career spanning over two decades, Dr. De Souza has established herself as a leading figure in the field of education, renowned for her expertise in curriculum development, pedagogical innovation, and student-centred learning.
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Her academic journey has taken her across continents, where she has collaborated with diverse communities, leveraging her cross-cultural insights to enhance educational practices. Her research interests encompass the intersection of technology and education, inclusive teaching methodologies, and the impact of socio-economic factors on academic achievement.
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As an Academic Module Tutor, she is dedicated to nurturing the intellectual growth of her students, fostering critical thinking skills, and instilling a lifelong love for learning. Beyond the classroom, she is actively involved in educational advocacy, striving to promote equitable access to quality education for all. Her unwavering commitment to excellence, coupled with her compassionate approach to teaching, continues to inspire and empower the next generation of scholars and educators alike.
Dr. Roshni Karia
Academic Tutor
Dr. Roshni Karia, an esteemed figure in academia, serves as an Academic Module Tutor with an unparalleled dedication to nurturing the minds of future scholars.
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Her journey in education began with her innate passion for empowering individuals through learning. Her academic prowess, coupled with her empathetic approach, has garnered her recognition as a transformative educator. Throughout her career, she has championed innovative teaching methodologies, fostering an environment where intellectual curiosity thrives. Her commitment extends beyond the confines of the classroom, as she actively engages in research endeavours aimed at addressing contemporary challenges in education.
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Her impact transcends borders, having collaborated with institutions worldwide to promote cross-cultural understanding and academic excellence. Her unwavering dedication to her students' success is evident in her personalised guidance and mentorship, guiding them towards achieving their full potential. As an Academic Module Tutor, she not only imparts knowledge but also instils in her students a lifelong love for learning, leaving an indelible mark on the academic landscape.
Dr. Felix Torrance
Academic Tutor
Dr. Felix Torrance, a seasoned healthcare professional, currently serves as the Cohort Director at The Healthcare Leadership Academy, where he plays a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of healthcare leaders.
Driven by a passion for improving healthcare systems, he pursued his education at prestigious institutions, including Newcastle University and Durham University, where he obtained Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery degrees. His academic journey also led him to earn a Master through research (MRes) in Global Health from Newcastle University, showcasing his commitment to understanding and addressing global health challenges.
He is not only dedicated to academic excellence but also prioritises enhancing his clinical skills, holding certifications from esteemed bodies such as the Resuscitation Council UK and the British Pharmacological Society's Prescription Safety Assessment. Throughout his career, he has been recognized for his outstanding contributions, having received several awards that highlight his exemplary leadership and dedication to advancing healthcare. With a steadfast commitment to excellence and a wealth of experience, Dr. Felix Torrance continues to make significant strides in the field of healthcare leadership and innovation.
Dr. Emma Cox
Academic Tutor
Dr. Emma Cox is a dynamic figure in the healthcare landscape, serving as the Chief Product Officer at Medics.Academy, where she applies her expertise to drive innovation in medical education. With a background as an Emergency Medicine Doctor, she brings a wealth of frontline experience to her role, ensuring that educational offerings meet the evolving needs of healthcare professionals.
She is also deeply involved in NHS England as a Clinical Entrepreneur, actively shaping the future of healthcare delivery.
Her commitment to excellence is reflected in her role as a Governor for the Royal Free NHS Foundation Trust, where she advocates for patient-centric care and organisational growth.
Her dedication to advancing healthcare extends beyond her professional roles; she contributes significantly to the field through her involvement with the TASME National Committee, fostering the development of future medical leaders.
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Recognized for her outstanding contributions, Emma has been honoured with prestigious awards including the '100 Women in Healthcare Leadership' and the 'Quality Improvement Award for Excellence in Improving the Efficiency of Services for Our Patients' (second place), underscoring her tireless pursuit of excellence in healthcare.
Dr. Solomon Kamal-Uddin
Academic Tutor
Dr. Beryl De Souza is a seasoned academic with a multifaceted background that enriches her role as an Academic Module Tutor. With a career spanning over two decades, Dr. De Souza has established herself as a leading figure in the field of education, renowned for her expertise in curriculum development, pedagogical innovation, and student-centred learning.
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Her academic journey has taken her across continents, where she has collaborated with diverse communities, leveraging her cross-cultural insights to enhance educational practices. Her research interests encompass the intersection of technology and education, inclusive teaching methodologies, and the impact of socio-economic factors on academic achievement.
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As an Academic Module Tutor, she is dedicated to nurturing the intellectual growth of her students, fostering critical thinking skills, and instilling a lifelong love for learning. Beyond the classroom, she is actively involved in educational advocacy, striving to promote equitable access to quality education for all. Her unwavering commitment to excellence, coupled with her compassionate approach to teaching, continues to inspire and empower the next generation of scholars and educators alike.
Dr. Beryl De Souza
Academic Tutor
Dr. Beryl De Souza is a seasoned academic with a multifaceted background that enriches her role as an Academic Module Tutor. With a career spanning over two decades, Dr. De Souza has established herself as a leading figure in the field of education, renowned for her expertise in curriculum development, pedagogical innovation, and student-centred learning.
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Her academic journey has taken her across continents, where she has collaborated with diverse communities, leveraging her cross-cultural insights to enhance educational practices. Her research interests encompass the intersection of technology and education, inclusive teaching methodologies, and the impact of socio-economic factors on academic achievement.
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As an Academic Module Tutor, she is dedicated to nurturing the intellectual growth of her students, fostering critical thinking skills, and instilling a lifelong love for learning. Beyond the classroom, she is actively involved in educational advocacy, striving to promote equitable access to quality education for all. Her unwavering commitment to excellence, coupled with her compassionate approach to teaching, continues to inspire and empower the next generation of scholars and educators alike.
Dr Amanuel Mulugeta
Programmes Executive
Dr. Amanuel Mulugeta is a distinguished medical professional, proficient in both clinical practice and public health. With a rich repertoire of experience, he has contributed to numerous local and international projects, demonstrating his adept management skills and passion for research. Currently, he holds the position of Programmes Executive at Medics.Academy, a leading UK-based healthcare technology company, where he spearheads initiatives aimed at advancing medical education and innovation.
Additionally, Dr. Mulugeta serves as an Ambassador for SOPHOS-Africa, driving efforts to combat poverty, corruption, and unemployment within the African healthcare sector. His academic journey is marked by notable achievements, including a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from Debre Tabor University and a Master's degree in Public Health from Santé Medical College.
Furthermore, he has honed his expertise through specialised training, obtaining a certificate in the Design and Interpretation of Clinical Trials from The Johns Hopkins University. Dr. Mulugeta's commitment to service extends beyond professional realms, as evidenced by his active engagement with organisations such as the Ethiopian Medical Association and the Ethiopian Red Cross Society, where he contributes his skills and knowledge to support health initiatives.
As an associate with SOPHOS AFRICA, he dedicates his time to coordinating projects aimed at alleviating poverty and empowering communities across the continent. Dr. Amanuel Mulugeta's multifaceted contributions reflect his unwavering dedication to improving healthcare outcomes and addressing societal challenges on both local and global scales.
Dr. Faris Hussain
Academic Tutor
Dr. Faris Hussain is a Medical Doctor, who graduated from Cardiff University and has worked in Wales and Scotland within multiple specialties. He completed Academic (now called Specialised) foundation training in Cardiff, Wales and Cwm Taf, Wales before working as a teaching fellow in Cardiff, Wales.
The main components of Faris’ academic projects revolved around medical education, including co-leading a national teaching initiative for Cardiff medical students that launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, involving face-to-face and online teaching sessions. He has spent the last 12 months locuming in Scotland in Acute Medicine and is due to start core psychiatry training in August 2024.
Faris has been involved with Medics.Academy since 2020, starting as a fellow and being involved in design, curation and delivery of its F DOCS programme. Faris assumes the role of Academic Module Tutor, utilising his learnings from his PGC in Clinical Management, Education and Practice and his diploma in medical education from Cardiff University.
Honorary Appointments at Medics.Academy
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Dr Sarah Malawana
Honorary Senior Lecturer (Teaching)
Dr Sarah Malawana
Honorary Senior Lecturer (Teaching)
Dr Sarah Malawana
Honorary Senior Lecturer (Teaching)
Dr Sarah Malawana
Honorary Senior Lecturer (Teaching)
Dr Sarah Malawana
Honorary Senior Lecturer (Teaching)
Dr Sarah Malawana
Honorary Senior Lecturer (Teaching)