Navigating the medical field as a woman of colour brings both distinct challenges and remarkable opportunities. This intersection of gender and race can manifest in unique ways. Although challenges arise in the lack of representation, it also paves the path for the current women of colour in medicine and students to become powerful role models and mentors for the future generations. While facing biases and discrimination can be a consistent struggle, their unique perspectives enable them to advocate for policies and practices that promote equity and inclusivity. The balancing of unique cultural expectations and professional responsibilities is a challenging act—yet this struggle is often accompanied by the development of resilience, strength, and a deep sense of purpose. What may seem like barriers in some situations often become catalysts for personal and professional growth.

“Navigating a space historically dominated by men has taught me the importance of confidence, mentorship, and advocating for equality. Every day is an opportunity to prove that women not only belong in medicine but are also shaping its future.” - Candace Cheung

Female medical students often embrace a dual role as both a learner and leader. Advocating for confidence and equality is not merely an option, but a profound responsibility. As a woman preparing for a career in a cut-throat industry, carving out your own space is essential—not just for yourself, but also for the women who came before you, stand beside you, and will follow after you. In the gradual transformation of the structure of healthcare, every success, no matter how small, contributes to a larger movement toward a future where gender equality in medicine isn’t just an aspiration but a reality.

Now, I could continue to rattle off statistics in an attempt to illustrate the various challenges women in medicine have faced, conquered, and still contend with—but that wouldn't do justice to the depth of their experiences. While the regurgitation of numbers has always comprised the backbone of a solid argument, this isn’t meant to be an argument. This is a journey. To truly understand what it means to be a female medical student, you need to hear from those living it. After all, who better to capture the essence of this journey than those who navigate it everyday?

“Although the cohort, currently, displays a higher proportion of a female:male ratio, there is still underlying prejudice against women occurring. Whether it’s automatically calling the doctor you’re about to visit ‘him’, or referring to the nurse about to come in as ‘her’, these are ingrained within us” - Lucie Dextehxe

While certainly a milestone to celebrate, the growing presence of women in the medical field is a relatively new development. As a result, the deep-seated stereotypes and biases in the way in which people speak about medicine still persist. While often unconscious and deeply ingrained, these ideals can be the fertilizer in reinforcing this prejudice, making it difficult to fully escape. The reinforcement of gender stereotypes can, and do, affect the perceptions and treatment of healthcare professionals. The classic saying—“You’ll have to work twice as hard to get half of what they have”—rings true in this context. Female doctors often have to work harder to attain the same level of respect as their male counterparts. Nevertheless, the increasing number of women in the field—serving as both role models and mentors—is a step towards achieving gender balance in healthcare and—hopefully—the complete eradication of these ingrained prejudices altogether.

“I am a little bit scared of the work life balance as the years go ahead, especially as a woman, on the pressures of starting a family at the right time and managing the workload of home and work” - Jiya Jobit

The concern about achieving a sustainable work-life balance resonates deeply with many women pursuing demanding careers, especially in fields like medicine. Although the division of household labour has made its advancements, societal or personal expectations of caregiving roles are still prevalent. The pressure to "start a family at the right time" intersects with long hours, unpredictable schedules, and emotionally taxing work. In fact, the historical underrepresentation of women in medicine, especially in higher career positions, is possibly a result from succumbing to this pressure. While balancing a home and family with maintaining career momentum is a challenge, we are hopeful for a future where this role strain is reduced. Although it may not entirely diminish, this pressure should at least mirror that of a man’s—nothing more, nothing less.

“Being a first-generation black woman from Sudan, a country currently facing one of the worst humanitarian crises in the world, I carry the weight of unspoken expectations not just from my community, but from myself.” -Elaf Mohamed

“Whilst I have been fortunate not to face the same external pressures that many South Asian women experience - such as the expectation to prioritise family over career or to conform to rigid gender roles - I recognise that this privilege comes with its own responsibilities.” -Manal Alam