IMG…International Medical Graduate. ‘A physician who has received their medical degree from a location outside of their current country of practice.’ This is not a term that I had ever identified with in my medical career until this point. Not a term that I gave a second thought to until now, where it has basically defined my identity as a part of the NHS. My name is Aisha and I am a proud Saint Lucian, A fact that you would most certainly gather within 5 minutes of meeting me, as I never miss an opportunity to brag about my beautiful Saint Lucia. I would also consider myself to have a second home on Jamaican soil as I had the privilege of living there for 5 years while attending medical school. Earning a medical degree from the University of the West indies (UWI), Mona Campus and practicing medicine in my early career, in my beautiful island home of Saint Lucia meant that I never really felt out of place. I was always Home. The term IMG was far from my mind indeed…until of course moving to the United Kingdom to pursue my medical career further. I went through the requisite processes (examinations and professional registration) and was able to finally secure a post in a busy Orthopaedic department in London. ‘This is it!’, I thought. ‘This is the beginning of fulfilling my dreams!’, ‘the first rung in the ladder to becoming a Trauma & Orthopaedic consultant’. The excitement and butterflies continued as I realised that all I had to do was put my best foot forward, work hard and be a team player. Essentially what I have been doing in my career thus far. The anticipation continued to build when I imagined receiving one of those NHS lanyards that I had seen being donned by some of my fellow UWI grads who had made the trek. Maybe even a ‘Hello my Name is’ badge. I was all set to present myself in the best way possible, shine my metaphorical shoes, re-braid my hair, get my edges just right ( you know…the vital stuff!). It honestly felt like the first day of school all over again. What could stop me with my ‘can do’ attitude? This was going to be amazing!!! Soon, those first day butterflies turned into jitters which then extended to first week and first month worries of not ‘getting it’. The trauma meeting dress-down I received in my second week regarding NHS specific guidelines, which I was just learning has stuck with me and still makes me cringe…three years later. I sometimes felt like another language was being spoken. There were ‘simple’ abbreviations and terms casually thrown around that went over my head, yet everyone else seemed to understand (P.O.C, Edan, MOF’d). The fear of not knowing or looking ‘less than ‘or silly or like I did not have it all together or deserve to have the role that I had worked so hard for, kept me from asking for clarification. It was at this time that ‘IMG’ gained a whole new meaning for me.  The term ‘IMG’, although a simple identifier, somehow made me feel ‘othered‘ initially. It felt like three letters pointing to my inadequacies. However, is different inherently a bad thing? This paradigm shifted completely after a much needed catch- up with some fellow Lucians, who I was lucky to have known since childhood and had made the move to work in the NHS before me. These Ladies have now become my sounding board, my support system and my home away from home. I realized that I was not alone in what I was feeling, not by a long shot as many of their struggles when starting in the NHS closely mirrored my own. A wave of relief washed over me as I heard the words ‘you are not alone’ and surprised when I was encouraged to ask those ‘silly’ questions because on a whole, people want to help you to succeed. During these catch-ups, I was also reminded that my perspective and my experiences in health care were not something to hide or anything that would hold me back, but actually my superpower! My background allowed me to better interact with patients and colleagues who looked just like me, like my Mother, my Father, my Sister, or Aunty Flora who lives down the road. Working in healthcare in the Caribbean also made me resourceful and forced me to manage my precious time. Surely these are critical qualities and skills needed to grow and thrive in the NHS. Everyone’s journey through their medical career looks different. A medical career, specifically one in a surgical field, is most definitely not a ‘one size fits all,’ as I have come to see more and more during my time in the U.K. Many have forged their own paths and carved out their niche in different areas of surgery. The roadmap I see myself following is obtaining a national training number and pursuing specialty training in Trauma and Orthopedics. Unlike many of my U.K.-trained peers, I have not had the same early exposure to the portfolio-based competencies that underpin progression within the NHS. These frameworks, embedded into medical school curricula and early postgraduate training, often mean that U.K. graduates begin their specialty applications with a more structured understanding of expectations. At times, this has made me feel as though I am playing catch-up, constantly working to bridge a gap I did not initially know existed. A gap that may very well  be further widened by proposed impending changes in the higher specialty training recruitment process, further moving the goalpost for myself and other IMG’s alike. However, I approach this challenge with that same ‘first day of school’ energy. I have made it a priority to actively seek out the many resources available to support IMGs like myself. Programs such as SurgIn  by Melanin Medics, which I am privileged to be a part of, have provided invaluable guidance in navigating the complexities of surgical training. I am also grateful to be surrounded by senior colleagues, who I have been introduced to, through hospital placements as well as community networking events, who are not only experienced but are also genuinely willing to offer mentorship and support. Being an International Medical Graduate in the U.K. is not without its challenges, but it is also a journey full of growth, and remarkable opportunity. Along the way, remember this: you are not alone. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Seek out community - it exists, and it is stronger than you think.  You belong here. Not in spite of your story, but because of it. As you settle in, grow, and find your place, I encourage you to look back and extend a hand to those coming after you. Just as others may have helped you, be the support and reassurance for someone else starting their own journey. We rise by lifting others and in doing so, we create a stronger, more inclusive future for all IMGs.

When I first came across Melanin Medics, I didn’t just see a platform but I saw a reflection of the person I wanted to become. A place where Black medical students and doctors could thrive, not in isolation, but in community. I joined not just to take part, but to grow, to serve, and to find joy in being surrounded by people who get it.  When I think about why I’m still here, eight words come to mind, each one representing a reason I’ve stayed and grown with Melanin Medics. Being a part of Melanin Medics and writing content has made me feel a  part of a bigger mission to be an advocate for Black medical professionals across the country. It brings me joy contributing to Melanin Medics’ vision of empowering current and future doctors of Black heritage. I’ve truly enjoyed being part of a charity that ensures Black medical students, like me, have the opportunity, resources , and community  to excel in our medical education and careers. When applying to medical school, I had a Melanin Medics mentor who gave me advice on interviews and the UCAT, and also gave me tips on how to write my personal statement. Being able to see the number of Black medical students part of the Melanin Medics community allowed me to believe that I also belong in medical school. Through the content I produce and the stories shared, I have worked on being a true advocate   for black people in every medical space. Being a part of Melanin <edics has allowed me to work on shifting narratives, challenging stereotypes and most importantly celebrating black excellence in medicine. At each Melanin Medics event, I am surrounded by amazing, inspirational people within the medical field who take time out of their roles to support Melanin Medics who have done great things within the field. For example, we have many members who have completed the Healthcare Leadership Academy, have won grants and awards for their advocacy and leadership, have spoken at international conferences and so much more. Melanin Medics is a great hub to represent black excellence, and I am privileged to be a part of it. In my role as Content Writer, I’ve had the privilege of developing skills both within and beyond the scope of what I expected. Continuous professional development   is something deeply encouraged within the Melanin Medics team, and through the projects I’ve taken on, I’ve grown in areas like project management, writing, editing, and communication. With the support of my colleagues, I’ve also stepped outside my comfort zone to explore new interests. Building the portfolio resource guide from scratch was a major turning point as it challenged me to research thoroughly, plan with intention, and communicate clearly. The development of the portfolio guide, as well as the research  webinars held by the Research Tea has helped me to demystify research and research pathways. Melanin Medics has helped me better understand what it looks like and the value of academic contribution. I also gained practical experience in branding, design, and adapting content to be both informative and engaging. These experiences have stretched me and built a professional confidence I’ll carry well beyond medical school. Both academic events such as the Innovate for Impact Hackathon and social events  such as the Women in Medicine brunch have played a great role in my growth in Melanin Medics. These events emphasised to me what life in medicine is truly about, balancing your academic development with joy and connection with other medics. I truly enjoyed attending the events but also planning, promoting and executing the events with the team. Truly, being a part of Melanin Medics sharpens both ends of my sword! Through being at Melanin Medics I’ve grown into leadership  in many ways. In my role, I have been a leader in taking initiative, owning my projects and managing timelines. But not only that, the team works in a beautiful way that emphasises us all as leaders, as working independently is a form of leadership, true leadership which is consistent and intentional, things the whole team have developed. Partly, this was developed by the mentorship  available within the team. Each team member has supported and encouraged me and we all supported each other, a form of informal mentoring that has truly helped me grow in confidence and my voice. Being a part of Melanin Medics helped me see mentorship not as a formal relationship, but as any moment of guidance – whether written, spoken or shared. It’s been such a meaningful ride so far, and I’m honestly so grateful to be part of something that keeps pouring into me as much as I pour into it. If you’ve been thinking about getting involved, this is your sign!  Whether you’re looking to build skills, find community, or just be part of something uplifting, there’s a space for you here. Here’s to 8 years of impact – and to all the years still to come.  For information on how you can support Melanin Medics, click here !

As the next cycle of our Enrichment Programme begins, we thought to give some insights into some misconceptions about foundation medical training in the UK! Misconception no. 1: Choosing individual rotations A common misconception we have heard is that most medical students believe you can choose each of your rotations individually, tailoring your foundation programme entirely to your interests. However, in actuality, most foundation jobs have the full set of six rotations across F1 and F2 pre-allocated to you. This means, once you’re matched to a programme you may be automatically assigned specific specialties and locations for both years, with limited flexibility to swap. So, make sure you research the foundation school you’re applying to, making sure it has specialties you are interested in! Misconception no.2: Portfolio requirements Portfolio forms, sign-offs, reflections—they don’t end after finals. If anything, they matter even more now.  It’s easy to underestimate how much ongoing assessment continues during foundation training. ARCP (Annual Review of Competency Progression) comes around faster than you’d expect, especially if you’re only just getting the hang of your ward job.  Start early, ask questions, and stay organised—you’ll thank yourself when ARCP rolls around. Misconception no. 3: full GMC graduation Many students think full GMC registration only happens after F2, but actually, it’s granted after F1— as long as you get a satisfactory Certificate of Completion . This means you're officially recognised as a fully registered doctor with the GMC, and you can start applying for specialty training (if you want to), work locum shifts more freely, or even take an FY3 year if that’s part of your plan. Knowing this early can help with career planning—especially if you're thinking about taking a break after F2 or applying for competitive training programmes that require full registration at the point of application.  Just make sure you stay on top of your e-portfolio, supervisor meetings, and assessments—because any delays in your F1 sign-off can hold up your registration. Misconception no.4: Specialty Applications The foundation programme is thought to give you two full years to explore different specialties and then decide what to apply for. However, in practice, applications for specialty training open in October of F2, which is very early in the programme, usually during your 1st rotation. This means that you might not have the chance to experience all the specialties you're considering before making decisions about your specialty career path. This leaves many doctors applying based on limited experiences or relying on insights gained during medical school or early F1. Moreover, if you want to apply for specialty training after F2 you must be building your portfolio throughout later years in medical school and F1. Even if you’re not 100% sure what you want to do, start narrowing things down in med school or early F1. You’ll be surprised how quickly October of F2 rolls around— having some portfolio evidence or specialty-specific insights by then really helps. Misconception no.5: No spare time! As a foundation doctor, you’ll have more time than you think—yes, even with nights, long days, and weekend shifts. But to truly make the most of it (and protect your wellbeing), you’ll need to be intentional. Plan your annual leave around zero days and weekends to create longer stretches of rest, and use those windows to actually recharge—not just catch up on life admin. Whether it’s a proper break, a weekend away, or just time to do nothing, prioritising rest is just as important as ticking off portfolio tasks. Burnout is real, and planning your time well is one of the simplest ways to guard against it. When the rota drops, grab a calendar and block out any golden weekends or clusters of zero days. Then, slot in annual leave strategically to stretch out your time off. Even adding just one or two days can turn a regular weekend into a mini reset—and your future self will thank you for it. Starting foundation training can feel like stepping into the unknown—but the more informed you are, the more empowered you’ll feel. Whether you’re navigating portfolios, planning your career, or just trying to find your rhythm, you don’t have to figure it out alone. That’s exactly why our  Enrichment Programme  exists—to support current Black medics with mentorship, guidance, and community. If you're a final year medical student looking to get ahead with confidence, connection, and clarity, this programme is for you.   Applications are now open—find out more via this link

Stay up to date with our latest news, updates and Melanin Medics announcements NEWS Stay up to date with our latest news, updates and announcements Filter by Audience Aspiring Medics Doctors Medical Students Research New Merchandise - SHOP NOW! 2 Sept 2025 We’re delighted to announce the launch of our official Melanin Medics merchandise collection! READ MORE Envision Research Summer School 2025 - APPLICATIONS ARE OPEN! 9 Jul 2025 We’re excited to announce that applications are now open for the Envision Research Summer School. READ MORE Join the Melanin Medics Team 29 Jun 2025 We are currently seeking individuals who are committed to advancing healthcare and promoting diversity in the field. READ MORE 8 Years of Melanin Medics 28 Jun 2025 Read our 2024 Impact Report celebrating our 8th year of impact, community and excellence. READ MORE SurgIn: The Lewin Programme - Applications Now OPEN! 9 Jun 2025 We are thrilled to announce that applications are officially open for SurgIn: The Lewin Programme! READ MORE Building Your Medical Portfolio - Medical Students 28 May 2025 A practical guide for medical students on building a strong portfolio. READ MORE Money Matters 25 Apr 2025 A financial empowerment panel and networking event for black doctors READ MORE The Enrichment Programme: Become a mentee or mentor 25 Mar 2025 We are now recruiting both participants and mentors: if you are a final-year medical student seeking tailored support or a doctor eager to empower the next generation, we invite you to join us. READ MORE Innovate for Impact 25 Mar 2025 An interactive event for medical students to explore careers in innovation, medtech and health policy while collaborating on solutions to real-world health challenges READ MORE Join the Envision Med Programme 16 Jan 2025 Sign up to be a participant or mentor on the Envision Med Programme! READ MORE Join Our Christmas Appeal: The Power of £7 7 Dec 2024 With just £7, you can play a vital role in empowering the next generation of Black doctors. READ MORE Medical School Mock Interviews Webinar 14 Nov 2024 We are excited to announce our Interview Webinar Series targeted at medical school applicants. READ MORE

We’re delighted to announce the launch of our official Melanin Medics merchandise collection! Fundraising New Merchandise - SHOP NOW! 02/09/25, 09:15 We’re delighted to announce the launch of our official Melanin Medics merchandise collection! Our range has been designed with our community in mind – celebrating identity, growth, and belonging while supporting our mission to advance representation and tackle inequalities in medicine . By purchasing from our store, you’re doing more than just buying merchandise – you’re helping us to continue running programmes, events, and initiatives that empower Black medical students and doctors across the UK. Explore the collection here: https://www.melaninmedics.com/category/all-products Join us in wearing the movement, showing your support, and making an impact. Unisex MM Hoodie (Light) Buy Now Unisex MM Hoodie Buy Now Unisex MM Zip Hoodie Buy Now Previous Next

The goal of the Melanin Medics Research Network is to improve research engagement and attainment amongst medical students and doctors of African and Caribbean heritage. The Network is open to all medical students and doctors regardless of their ethnicity or race. RESEARCH The Melanin Medics Research Network Join the Melanin Medics Research Network to receive tailored information regularly on research opportunities, prizes, and grants (including those from external organisations) and more. JOIN NOW Improving research engagement and attainment amongst underrepresented groups The goal of this network is to improve research engagement and attainment amongst medical students and doctors of African and Caribbean heritage. Not only would this increase black representation in medical research, it could also improve patient outcomes, including those from deprived populations and ethnic minorities. The Melanin Medics Research Network is open to all medical students and doctors regardless of their ethnicity or race. Our Aims To organise national/international collaborative studies that would give medical students and doctors the opportunity to experience high-quality research in action, develop new skills, and gain publications as either collaborators and/or authors. To create a platform for research mentorship where experienced researchers would provide one-to-one support and/or research projects (remotely or face to face) to medical students or doctors of African and Caribbean heritage. To organise workshops/ seminars that will develop its members’ research skills and knowledge, and educate them on research careers, including the academic clinician pathway. To provide information regularly on research opportunities, prizes, and grants (including those from external organisations) to the network members. Top of page Aims Overview Previous research projects Achievements Publications Our Past Research Project REMED-UK study was a prospective, national, multi-centre study that will utilise an online questionnaire. The aims of the study were: 1. To investigate factors that may affect medical students’ participation and attainment in research in the UK 2. To understand perceptions of research, motivation for, and the barriers to research engagement and attainment amongst medical students in the UK. 3. To produce evidence-based reports that will guide UK medical schools and relevant organisations in developing resources and programmes that will increase the number of future academic clinicians and resolve inequalities in research opportunities and attainments amongst future clinicians. Our Success So Far We have obtained: 9 Academic Prizes and awards 23 presentations nationally and internationally 4 Publications Publications Inyang D, Madume R, Corriero AC, Sofela A, Osunronbi T. Trends in research grant applications and outcomes among medical students in the United Kingdom: a national self-reported cross-sectional survey. Postgrad Med J. 2023. https://doi.org/10.1093/postmj/qgad113 (Online First) Adeboye W, Osunronbi T, Faluyi D, et al. Predictors of self-reported research engagement and academic- career interest amongst medical students in the United Kingdom: a national cross-sectional survey. Postgrad Med J. 2023; 99(1177):1189-1196. https://doi.org/10.1093/postmj/qgad067 Osunronbi T, Adeboye W, Faluyi D, et al. Predictors of self-reported research productivity amongst medical students in the United Kingdom: a national cross-sectional survey. BMC Med Educ 2023; 23(1):412. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12909-023-04412-z Osunronbi T, Adeboye W, Faluyi D, et al. Predictors of self-reported research self-efficacy and perception of research amongst medical students in the United Kingdom: a national cross-sectional survey. Postgrad Med J. 2023;99(1168):69-76. https://doi.org/10.1093/postmj/qgad010 FIND OUT MORE Opportunities 8 Years of Melanin Medics Find out more Join the Melanin Medics Team Find out more