Qaali Hussein, M.D. — Being the Change

When Dr. Qaali Hussein’s family fled war-torn Somalia in the ‘90s, she experienced trauma first-hand. Today as an trauma surgeon, helping patients through life-changing events is what she specializes in. Mending and repairing is what she loves doing.

But her path to medical school was full of roadblocks. When a hijab-wearing Muslim girl announces she wants to be a mother and a surgeon, her culture responds, “impossible.” But Dr. Hussein knew herself. She knew her values, and she knew what she wanted. And in the face of naysayers -- but with the encouragement of her grandmother -- she pushed ahead. Not only did she complete her residency while gestating multiple times, she has paved the way for future female generations to do the same. Being the change she wants to see, she is an advocate for all women and underrepresented minorities. 

In today’s episode, hear Dr. Hussein’s inspiring story of triumph in the face of repeated adversities -- from her culture, her superiors, and even her patients. She’s not bitter about her hardships. On the contrary, she’s motivated to be an inspiration to others.

• About Dr. Hussein’s background
• About her grandmother who sowed the seeds of independence and courage
• About the adversities of women in medicine, especially Muslim
• About Dr. Hussein’s other pursuits and entrepreneurial endeavors

• Dr. Qaali Hussein’s website
• Connect with Dr. Hussein on Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook
• Professional Muslim Women Podcast