2025 International Committee Leader Spotlight

Ekiomoado Olumese, MD, MPhil, Chair of the EMRA International Committee, 2025

Program: University of Chicago

Your goal as an EMRA leader: To connect individuals with various levels of involvement in global EM/international medicine together and grow in understanding of how to best uplift minorities voices and make emergency medicine more accessible and equitable across the globe

What is the best advice you've ever received? don't get so caught up in planning tomorrow that you forget to live in today

What is something that people don't know about you? i went to 9 different countries in 10 months when I got my master's degree abroad!

If I weren't an emergency physician, I would be: probably in international relations or a job that would take me across the world

What is your favortie hack for night shifts? nap right before + always pack lots of snacks!

What's the last non-textbook you read? On Rotation by Dr. Shirlene Obuobi

What are your tops songs on your Spotify Wrapped? Soso by Omah Lay, Commas by Ayra Starr, Soweto by Tempoe and Victony

Aditya Lal Vallath, MD, Chair- Elect of the EMRA International Committee, 2025

Program: Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center

Your goal as an EMRA leader: EMRA is a remarkable organization that has significantly contributed to the advancement of emergency medicine worldwide. When presented with the opportunity to become an EMRA leader, I eagerly embraced it. As a current emergency medicine resident in the US system with prior EM residency training in India, I believe I possess a unique perspective that can bridge the gap between countries with established and emerging emergency medicine fields. My expirences in both settings will enable me to leverage the best practices from each other, not only to foster the global development of emergency medicine but also enhance the quality of care within the US through collaborative efforts. I also want to develop cost effective solutions to impart EM knowledge for residents and medical students in resource challenged settings .

What is the best advice you've ever received? "No honey no money, no money no honey" My dad told me this when I was really young with the context of working hard 

What is something that people don't know about you? I still use my fingers to do basic math above 10

If I weren't an emergency physician, I would be: I'd probably be in the civil services or open a small shack on the beach, fish during the day and grill it in the evenings with a tiny bar attached.

What is your favorite hack for night shifts? I like to go for a run or play video games before a night shift. Best way to stay awake the whole night.

What's the last non-textbook you read? Berserk manga Born to run

What are your tops songs on your Spotify Wrapped? Kuthanthram - Manjummal Boys, Heaven takes you home - Swedish House Mafia, The Chain Fleetwood Mac

Amera Hassan, MD, Vice Chair of the EMRA International Committee, 2025

Program: University of Chicago

Your goal as an EMRA leader: As an Arab-American physician, I’m committed to addressing healthcare disparities and advocating for vulnerable populations in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. These communities often face unique challenges, including political persecution, limited access to healthcare resources, and the impact of displacement and genocide. Through my role in the EMRA International Committee, I aim to amplify the voices of these underserved populations and highlight the importance of equitable healthcare delivery in global medicine.

Why get involved in a professional society? I want to create opportunities for medical professionals to contribute to global health efforts, whether through direct service, research, or education. Advocacy is an extension of our responsibility as physicians, and I hope to inspire others to see global medicine not as a distant concept but as an integral part of our shared mission to improve health outcomes worldwide.

What is the best advice you have ever received? [Youtube video of Shuzo Matsuoka harvesting clams]: “Don’t give up! Why are you quitting there? Think of all the people cheering you on! You’re almost there.” 

What is something people don't know about you? That would be a secret 

If I weren't an emergency physician, I would be: An English literature professor

Gabriela Hernandez, DO, Vice Chair of the EMRA International Committee, 2025

Program: LECOM-Bradenton

Your goal as an EMRA leader: My goal as an EMRA leader is to showcase my passion for global medicine and serve as a liaison for medical students by fostering mentorship and professional growth opportunities. 

Why get involved in a professional society? I wanted to connect with like-minded individuals, promote emergency medicine, and provide mentorship opportunities where resources may be limited. 

What is the best advice you have ever received? Trust your instincts and pursue what excites you, even if it feels unpredictable. 

What is something people don't know about you? I have a twin brother! 

If I weren't an emergency physician, I would be: If I weren’t an emergency physician, my dream job would be a travel blogger and content creator, allowing me to explore the world while sharing my experiences with others.

Favorite life hack for night shifts: Stay hydrated, take quick mental breaks, and bring lots of snacks!