Meet Our ICHAMS 2026 Ambassadors!
Japnit Bhatia
Institution: University of Limerick, Ireland
I’m a fourth year medical student from the University of Limerick with a background in primary care research. I’m particularly interested in preventative and lifestyle medicine, and in how simple, sustainable changes can improve long-term health. Research has given me the chance to learn from others, collaborate across disciplines, and see how ideas translate into better patient care. I’m excited to connect with like-minded peers through ICHAMS and help build a supportive community for research and innovation.
Neran Mahadeosingh
Institution: RCSI, Ireland
My name is Neran Mahadeosingh and I am from the twin-island nation of Trinidad and Tobago. I am a second-year medical student at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, where I combine my studies with active research in public health and neuroscience. My experience includes a funded evaluation of Ireland’s Sláintecare Healthy Communities programme under the RCSI School of Population Health, contributions to a neuroscience addiction review with the Sahai Lab at Brunel University London, and a holistic cardiology observership at the Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute in Canada. I am particularly interested in surgery, global health equity, and the translation of research into meaningful clinical impact.
Alwaleed Alabbasi
Institution: RCSI, Ireland
I’m a medical student at RCSI with a strong interest in orthopaedic surgery and medical education. I’m currently Editor for the Strike A Match podcast, and I’ve been involved in several leadership roles across RCSI’s student societies. My research interests include surgical education and AI integration in procedural medicine. I’m passionate about building bridges between students internationally through academic collaboration.
Arianna Paolane
Institution: RCSI, Ireland
I am a medical student in my fourth year at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI). I'm originally from Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada, and completed two years of a bachelor’s degree in the Medical Sciences program at Brock University in St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada. My career and research interests are primarily centred around Geriatric Medicine and health services research focused on older adults living with multiple co-morbidities, frailty, and polypharmacy.
Esther Akande
Institution: Wroclaw Medical University, Poland
My name is Esther Akande, originally from Nigeria and currently living in Sweden, where I also work as a nurse assistant. I am a medical student at Wroclaw Medical University in Poland, pursuing my passion for medicine. Although I have not yet conducted formal research, I am deeply interested in neurosurgery and eager to explore research opportunities in this field. My goal is to contribute to advancing neurosurgical care while growing in knowledge, skill, and collaboration within the medical community.
Emily Ramgoolam
Institution: RCSI, Ireland
My name is Emily Ramgoolam and I am from Trinidad 🇹🇹 This year I’ll be starting Year 3 of the Undergraduate Medicine program at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI). My current medical interests include Dermatology, Infectious Diseases and Public Health.
Megan Chiasson
Institution: RCSI, Ireland
I am a Canadian medical student at RCSI in Dublin with a strong interest in internal medicine. I have been actively involved in research in both Canada and Ireland, including projects in hematology and psychiatry. Alongside my clinical and research work, I am passionate about leadership and currently serve as Senior Advisor for the Leadership and Management Society at RCSI.
Afrah Abdul Hakeem
Institution: RCSI, Ireland
I am a third-year medical student at RCSI from Toronto, Canada. I have a medical interest in hepatology and a research focus on diabetes. I am currently completing my preclinical modules and am excited to begin my clinical rotations next year.
Varsha Nidi Vadassery
Institution: RCSI, Bahrain
Hi everyone! My name is Varsha Nidi Vadassery. I am a third-year medical student at RCSI – Medical University of Bahrain. I completed my undergraduate degree at McMaster University, Canada, majoring in BioPhysiology with a minor in Psychology. I am passionate about medical research and advancing clinical knowledge to improve patient care. I aspire to specialize in Emergency Medicine and develop the skills to provide timely and effective care.
Woon Shuen Chan (Sylvia)
Institution: RCSI, Ireland
Hi everyone, my name is Sylvia and I’m entering my third year of medicine this fall. I had the opportunity to present my project at ICHAMS last year, the professionalism of the student-led conference inspired me to get more involved this year. I’m here to support students, enhancing experience and contributing to a professional, welcoming event! Looking forward to working with everyone!
Kyra White
Institution: RCSI, Ireland
My name is Kyra White, and I am from Toronto, Canada. I am an SC1 medical student at RCSI. Before starting medicine, I studied Biochemistry and Cell Biology at Western University and completed a Master of Science at Boston University. I am very interested in urology and general surgery, and my research focuses on the use of novel medical devices to improve urologic care.
Sami Almari
Institution: RCSI, Ireland
My name is Sami, and I am a third-year medical student at RCSI. I have a strong academic interest in neurosurgery, particularly in the field of connectomics. I am currently involved in research collaborations with the University of Pennsylvania and am exploring novel devices for endovascular neurosurgery and with Omniscient Neurotechnology exploring connectome guided neuromodualtion and nuerosurgery. My goal is to continue advancing research that bridges neuroscience and surgical practice.
Damilola Daniel Akinde
Institution: Caucasus International University, Tbilisi, Georgia
Damilola Daniel Akinde is a final-year medical student at Caucasus International University in Tbilisi, Georgia, originally from Nigeria. His medical interests include orthopedic surgery, medical education, and global health. He has conducted research on emergency preparedness and innovative teaching methods using virtual reality and cadaveric dissection. As President of the AMSA CIU Chapter, he is passionate about fostering international collaboration and advancing opportunities for early-career researchers.
Orode Aniejurengho
Institution: University of Oradea, Romania
I am a third year mature medical student, at the University of Oradea, Romania, who is intrigued by all things microbiology. Currently, my interests are centred around antimicrobial awareness. I am passionate about research that addresses pressing health issues and improves healthcare access, particularly in underserved communities.
Joanne Plahouras
Institution: University of Limerick, Ireland
I am from Toronto, Canada. I am studying medicine at the University of Limerick. I have broad research interests, including psychiatry.
Lamar Fatani
Institution: RCSI, Ireland
My name is Lamar Fatani, a fourth-year medical student at RCSI in Dublin, originally from Saudi Arabia. I have a strong interest in clinical research, with experience in projects on endocrinology, oncology, and medical technology, and I have presented at ICHAMS multiple times. Beyond academics, I am involved in leadership roles, mentorship, and research society initiatives. My academic and extracurricular experiences reflect my commitment to advancing medical knowledge and fostering international collaboration.