Growing up in a region of Sudan with limited healthcare and educational resources, Hamdi Abdalrhman developed a deep understanding of
the transformative power of education. Encouraged by his mother, he became the first member of his family, village and the rural community to qualify as
a doctor.

After achieving a medical degree, Hamdi managed an emergency room at Khartoum ENT Hospital and practised clinical medicine and surgery across five hospitals in different states of Sudan. Working in these roles, he identified healthcare management skills that could be improved. Since arriving in Wales, he has enhanced his management and English language skills by taking courses in Essential Management and Leadership Skills and Project Management at Cardiff University, which he says have been “life-changing.”

“The impact of these courses has been profound,” said Hamdi. “By integrating my medical expertise with newly acquired leadership and management skills, I have improved teamwork and productivity within my organisation. I enjoy working here in Wales and interacting with patients and colleagues.”
Hamdi currently works at the University Hospital of Wales Short Stay Surgical Unit in Cardiff and hopes to requalify to practice as a doctor in the UK next year.

His life journey has not been without its challenges, including the loss of his younger sister in the Sudan civil war. “These adversities have only strengthened my resolve,” he stressed. “Education has not only saved my life but fuelled my commitment to lifelong learning as ameans of creating change in people’s lives.

“By combining my medical expertise with advanced business and leadership skills, I aim to improve healthcare delivery systems on a large scale. My ultimate goal is to become an orthopaedic surgeon and a global surgery leader. “Age, background or circumstances should never be barriers to learning. Lifelong learning is an infinite journey that enriches both personal growth and professional opportunities.”

His nominator, Jemma Cox, a Lifelong Learning tutor at Cardiff University, said: “Hamdi’s story demonstrates the transformative power of education and the importance of making learning opportunities available to everyone. His passion for learning, commitment and enthusiasm has shone through. We are sure he will continue to shine in his future career, and hope his story inspires others to return to the classroom.”