The Dallas-Fort Worth Dawoodi Bohra community hosted the 3rd Annual Saifee Burhani Medical Association of America (SBMAA) MEDS conference from September 8 to 10, 2023.
More than 200 Dawoodi Bohra healthcare professionals, students, and supporters across North America—from Texas to Canada, California to Maryland—gathered for the multidisciplinary event featuring physicians, dentists, therapists, pharmacists, fitness trainers, and more.
Dr. Aliasghar Diwan, an Emergency Medicine resident physician from New Jersey, said:
"By combining speakers with national conference pedigree, with an intimate, community atmosphere, the SBMAA conference allows residents, medical students, and premeds to directly interact and collaborate with professionals at the cutting edge of their respective fields, something rarely seen at large national conferences."
The three-day event featured over 20 presentations on subjects ranging from the pediatric mental health crisis to the growing role of artificial intelligence in medicine. Preventive health sessions, such as “Staying Fit Over 50” and “Community-Based Cardiovascular Care” encouraged participants to integrate wellness into their practice and daily routines.
Keynote speaker Dr. Sameer Murali, Associate Professor of Obesity Medicine at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston, delivered an address on the management of obesity as a chronic disease. Reflecting on the conference, Dr. Murali said:
"It was a great learning opportunity. I especially enjoyed the session on informatics and artificial intelligence, as well as the interactive sessions about the parenting program under development. The conference was very organized, informative, and inspiring. I gained a deep appreciation for the Dawoodi Bohra culture, traditions, and commitment to service. Truly a unique blend of professional development, networking, and spiritual upliftment. I have never experienced anything like it.”
Beyond its educational content, the conference offered wellness activities such as acupuncture, cupping, and yoga, along with hands-on clinics in suture and ultrasound. Research poster presentations, and a friendly medical trivia challenge titled ‘JeoParody,’ added interactive elements and a lively spirit to the experience.
Mentorship was a cornerstone of the conference, providing students and trainees with direct access to experienced professionals.
A standout presentation was of health-related data collected by young Dawoodi Bohras of Collin County, focusing on youth attitudes towards vaping and substance use. These findings prompted important discussions on preventative measures, including a proposed curriculum to improve parental communication with teens, aiming to protect youth from mental health issues and drugs.
The conference also featured Ibrahim Ezzuddin, a member of His Holiness’ family, who addressed the attendees and shared insights into the philosophy of Fatimi Medicine.
The event’s success was made possible by the dedication of healthcare professionals and volunteers from the Dawoodi Bohras of Dallas. Bariatric surgeon and SBMAA Board Member, Dr. Mustafa Alibhai, shared:
“The local SBMAA committee members’ efforts were key in organizing the gathering. Invaluable, also, to this event’s success were the efforts of non-medical members from the local community who volunteered their time wholeheartedly. Texas hospitality was evident throughout this weekend. Speaking on behalf of the board, we were very appreciative of the local team's involvement.”
For many attendees, the conference provided long-term benefits for professional growth. Zainab Ezzi, MPH (Master of Public Health), participated in a panel promoting holistic health. “The feedback I received motivated me to develop a longer workshop on the topic of my business. Participating in this conference over the years has helped me to build my professional confidence and credibility in a supportive environment.”
The SBMAA MEDS conference exemplifies the strength of unique learning, collaborations, and relationships, providing healthcare professionals with a platform to lean on. Its influence will continue to make an impact on the field for years to come.
