Imagine a doctor who not only excels in the precision of oculoplastic surgery but also dazzles with their talents as an artist, dancer and fashion designer.
Dr Manju Meena is that remarkable individual, and her journey since leaving Sydney Eye Hospital has been nothing short of extraordinary.
Dr Meena started a 12-month Sydney Eye Hospital Foundaton Oculoplastic Fellowship in October 2012, bringing with her a desire to push boundaries. Prior to this, she was an associate consultant in ophthalmic plastics and ocular oncology at the prestigious LV Prasad Eye Institute, Vizag, India.
"I wanted to pursue an international fellowship in oculoplasty to improve my skills and also, learn new techniques from the international leaders in this field," she says speaking of the highly respected specialists at Sydney Eye Hospital.
The Foundation Fellowship proved to be a gateway to new opportunities. After completing the program, Dr Meena was awarded two exciting appointments.
"I started working as an oculoplasty consultant in one of the biggest corporate eye hospitals in India. Later, I got an opportunity to work as an international specialist at Dannis Lam Eye Hospital Shenzhen, China," Dr Meena says.
Returning to her homeland, Dr Meena found herself uniquely positioned to advance the field locally. "Currently, I am the only double fellowship-trained oculoplastic surgeon in the whole state of Rajasthan (India)," she says.
This specialisation enables her to address complex cases that were once beyond reach for many patients. "Now patients can receive advanced and emergency treatment right in their own town, eliminating the need and time it takes to travel to big cities for care,” she says.
The experience at Sydney Eye Hospital left a profound impact on Dr Meena, both professionally and personally.
"The Sydney Eye Hospital Foundation Fellowship was a life-changing event of my life. I became more confident, learned to interact with people from multicultural backgrounds. The overall exposure at work as well as the city was overwhelming," she reflects.
She also cherishes the personal growth that came from balancing a demanding career with a fulfilling life, saying, "I learned the importance of having work-life balance for doctors, which is still not a concept in India."
Dr Meena’s talents extend beyond the operating room which often surprises colleagues and adds a unique dimension to her professional outlook.
"Apart from being a doctor and an oculoplastic surgeon, I am an artist, a dancer and a fashion designer too," she says.
Dr Meena’s journey would not have been possible without the guidance of her mentors and she says she will always be indebted to them.
"I would like to thank my fellowship guides, Dr Ross Benger and Dr Peter Martin. I am also grateful to Dr Georgina Kourt, Dr Jenny Danks, Dr Jeff Wilscek and late Dr Raf Ghabrial for giving me the opportunity and teaching me new surgical skills,” she says.
This remarkable career journey underscores the profound impact of the Sydney Eye Hospital Foundation Fellowship program as Linda Fagan, CEO of the Foundation explains.
“Our Foundation Fellowship program is designed to nurture exceptional talent and drive advancements in healthcare,” says Linda.
“Dr Meena’s success is a testament to the incredible impact that our donors' support has on the global stage. By providing opportunities for fellows to gain advanced skills and experience, we are not only advancing individual careers but also transforming healthcare systems around the world,” she says.
Your support of the Sydney Eye Hospital Foundation’s Fellowship program plays a crucial role in these transformative stories.
“Each success story, including Dr Meena’s, showcases the significant difference your gifts make. We are deeply grateful for your continued support and partnership in advancing healthcare worldwide.”
