Dr Husam Zomlot, Head of the Palestinian Mission to the UK, was a guest speaker at the recent event on rebuilding higher education in Gaza
You also held a fundraiser…
Yes. I’m co-leading the dental education programme to support around 1,500 students from Gaza’s two dental schools. Their education has been on hold for 19 months, with no support. We held a fundraising dinner to help them complete their clinical training while providing free dental care to those in need. It was an incredible night. We raised £180,000!
You’re heading to the Houses of Parliament, too…
I’m organising an evening reception to showcase our projects in Bangladesh, Gaza and Afghanistan, particularly in the health and education sectors. The aim is to raise awareness, expand our network and build support for our initiatives. We’re inviting MPs, charities, academics and organisations such as the Royal College of Surgeons of England.
You started out working in refugee camps in Calais and Bangladesh. How has your role evolved?
I first volunteered in the camp in Calais, France, aged 20, simply acting as an interpreter for dentists. That weekend changed my life. I always remind people that you don’t need to be a doctor to make a difference. Any skill you have can help someone.
A decade later, my role has grown. I now focus on leadership, building partnerships, securing funding and advocacy so that we can scale up our impact.