How can we bring out the potential in us and probably try to be a step ahead of our peers? Yes, the world has become so challenging and really over demanding with recent technology.
To many, getting into medical training was one of their many options probably amongst others including traveling abroad. But for me, it was my final and best option as I would always write Dr. Kengo on my high school textbooks.
Getting into medical training and in a French faculty has been challenging and really demanding. But I always remember where I come from and how many people believe in me and are looking up to me. Also, the saying that "the stethoscope is the most expensive jewelry as it takes away your youthful age".
The past five years of my life have been really interesting as I reflect and discover that no challenge meant final bus stop. Not even the lack of means.
Interestingly, after joining medical school, I got back into my servant's shoes from secondary school which further pushed me into leadership/volunteering, and these came with sacrifices. This greatly shaped my community life. I also got engaged in research as a passion and this suddenly pulled me into a broad network I could never have imagined.
It is said that "those who plant courtesy reap friendship" and I must acknowledge that all of what I may have done today is not by my power but God's strength and all the family, mentors, teachers, friends and mates whose paths have crossed with mine.
Not because I am the best but by the grace of God at the end of my fifth year, I have had the opportunity to travel out of Cameroon for my first time. Not just to one but to two big and prestigious international conferences in and out of Africa.
Firstly, to the Africa HepatoPancreatoBiliary Cancer Consortium (AHPBCC) conference which held in Mombasa Kenya where I served amongst 10 other Pan-African Organizations for Health, Education and Research (AHPBCC-POHER) scholars as science communication fellow.
Secondly to the International Surgical Week (ISW) 2024 as a Future Surgeons Program (FSP) Delegate of the International Association of Student Surgical Societies (IASSS). A one in two-year event in the beautiful city of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Both opportunities have given me great networking opportunities and has put me on a spot to interact directly with the world leading scientist in these fields.
I must sincerely acknowledge the role the following organizations have played in preparing and providing me with these opportunities. These include but not limited to the AHPBCC, POHER, IASSS, Cameroon Medical Student Association (CAMSA), Open Dreams NGO, Winners Research Foundation, The Brains Association, Garoua English Medical Students and lots of other...
I may not start to list names of individuals as it's inexhaustible, but Sir/Ma'am I sincerely appreciate your support.
THANK GOD, THANK YOU.
Nathan Kengo | Medical Student
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