The World Health Organization (WHO) has once again spotlighted the rising talents emerging from the Kingdom, with Dr. Hanan Balkhy's recent appointment as the regional director for the Eastern Mediterranean. This commendable choice came to fruition during the 70th session of the WHO Regional Committee for the Eastern Mediterranean, held in Cairo from October 9 to 12.
Dr. Balkhy’s selection shines a light on Saudi Arabia's commitment to pushing boundaries, nurturing home-grown talent, and fostering female empowerment – a vision synonymous with Saudi Vision 2030. As reported by the Saudi Press Agency, this move is not just an individual triumph for Dr. Balkhy but a monumental testament to Saudi prowess in the global healthcare landscape.
Renowned for her expertise in infectious diseases, Dr. Balkhy has been a beacon in the realm of antimicrobial resistance. Her journey showcases an unwavering dedication to bridging the nexus between groundbreaking research and pragmatic policy implementation. Through her roles, Dr. Balkhy has consistently emphasized that scientific discoveries must dovetail into actionable public health solutions.
Beyond her professional achievements, Dr. Balkhy stands as a mentor par excellence. She champions the mantra of lifelong learning and has been pivotal in sculpting the careers of budding healthcare professionals.
As she steps into her new role at WHO, the Eastern Mediterranean region is poised for a transformative journey. Under Dr. Balkhy's aegis, there's an anticipation of a future where health strategies are not just reactive but visionary, encompassing, and resilient.
Dr. Hanan Balkhy is not just a representative of WHO or the Kingdom. In her, we see the dreams and aspirations of countless female health professionals in the Middle East and beyond.
