40 Years, 40 Stories
What if an experience could transform the future of kidney care for an entire community? Since 1985, the ISN Fellowship program has connected over 800 Fellows from more than 100 countries with mentors who have guided and inspired them every step of the way.
These fellows didn’t just learn—they returned home to lead. With the support of their mentors, they built transplant programs in underserved regions, expanded kidney care services, and trained the next generation. Together, fellows and mentors have created sustainable systems of care, transforming the lives of patients and communities globally.
Step into their stories
Behind every milestone is a story—a patient saved, a program launched, a relationship that sparked lasting change. As we celebrate 40 years of ISN Fellowships, we honor the fellows and mentors whose dedication and collaboration continue to shape the future of kidney care. Click to explore their stories.
Join the celebration
Your kidney care journey is shaped by the people who inspire you—mentors, colleagues, patients, and partners who make a difference every step of the way. It’s your turn to celebrate these connections.
- Express your gratitude: Write a heartfelt note to someone who has impacted your kidney care journey.
- Share your message: Give it to the person in private or shout it out for the whole world to know on social media.
- Tag the person you are celebrating
- Use hashtags #ThisIsISN #ISNFellowship40Years
Your turn to make an impact
The ISN Fellowship program doesn’t just train kidney care professionals, it creates ripples of change. Find out more about the program and how you can take part.
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Learn how our grants can help you grow your expertise, strengthen your organization, and contribute to a global effort to advance kidney health.
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The ISN supports more than 100 projects each year. Now is your chance to help healthcare professionals and centers gain the training, tools, and access to equipment needed to provide lifesaving care.
Paula Fernandes
Brazil
ISN Fellow 1996-1997
The ISN Fellowship program was an important point in my career. I left Brazil to live in London in March 1996, with many dreams in my backpack and in search of new knowledge. I lived in the United Kingdom from 1996 to 1997, completing a fellowship at Guy’s Hospital in London and conducting two clinical studies, one of which resulted in my Ph.D. I was Professor Cameron’s last fellow before his retirement—fellow number 242!
When I returned home, I became the Head of Nephrology and Renal Transplantation Unit at Hospital Universitário Walter Cantídio. I helped my hospital implement percutaneous renal biopsy using a TruCut needle guided by ultrasonography. We significantly increased the number of kidney transplants from 25 a year to 1,000 a year.
I believe this is an exceptional program that provides robust knowledge and contributes to the training of young nephrologists, enabling them to make a difference in their communities when they return to their countries.
Seow Yeing Yee
Malaysia
ISN Fellow 2018-2019
When I joined the fellowship training in 2018, my country—and my institution specifically—was severely lacking in transplant training. Upon my return, with support from my superiors, we increased the rate of kidney transplants from 1 per million population to about 5 per million population last year, performing highly sensitized kidney transplants and managing rare post-transplant complications.
The network ties built with my mentor in Sydney made it easier to discuss and learn how to manage these challenging cases. I still maintain a strong relationship with my mentor, Prof. Steve Chadban, who visits Malaysia yearly to provide teaching and guidance to my nephrology fellows, which has been incredibly helpful.
A memorable moment: It was incredible to see a kidney from the paired kidney exchange program arrive in a parcel box via commercial courier at the doorstep of the operating theater exactly at the pre-specified time. The surgeon had already opened up the recipient and waited only a few minutes before the kidney arrived. Witnessing the smoothness and efficiency of the paired kidney exchange program was truly amazing.
Nurul Zaynah Nordin
Malaysia
ISN Fellow 2022-2023
The ISN Fellowship program was a turning point in my career. I was fortunate to gain experience in clinical work, particularly in acute kidney injury and critical care nephrology management, as well as hands-on clinical research at one of the UK’s leading critical care nephrology units. I also learned how to systematically plan and present critical care research findings.
The first month as an observer went relatively smoothly. However, a few weeks into my role as a clinical fellow, things became more challenging—but manageable. Coming from Malaysia and being accustomed to a different healthcare system, I had to quickly adapt to the nuances of the UK healthcare system and adjust to its fast-paced environment. Building relationships with the staff and navigating the many protocols was a steep learning curve. But as the days went by, adjusting to this new environment became both fun and exciting.
Khalida Bulhan – Soki
Kenya
ISN Fellow 2017-2018
Nephrology training was not yet available in Kenya, my home country, in 2016. The NHS system in the UK was very different from ours at home, and it gave me an idea of what to aspire to. When I returned, I was one of only 30 nephrologists, and our services were sorely needed. The work has been overwhelming at times, but in the six years since, the number of nephrologists has increased to 55 with the establishment of the East African Kidney Institute (EAKI), an ISN-accredited training center.
It has been a whirlwind of learning, growth, mentorship, and advocacy for kidney disease—one of the most demanding, fulfilling, and humbling periods of my life. Training in nephrology opened up my horizons and allowed me to interact and collaborate with colleagues, friends, and mentors from around the world.
Muhammed Elhadedy
Egypt
ISN Fellow 2019-2020
The ISN Fellowship at the Sheffield Kidney Institute was a transformative experience that profoundly shaped my professional journey and personal growth. It equipped me with advanced knowledge in kidney transplantation and exposed me to world-class practices, which I have since brought back to Egypt, positively impacting patient outcomes.
Beyond the technical skills, the fellowship instilled in me a deep appreciation for collaborative, multidisciplinary care. I extend my heartfelt thanks to Mr. Ahmed Halawa, a remarkable transplant surgeon whose mentorship shaped my approach to kidney transplantation. His dedication to patient care and surgical precision set a standard I aspire to in my own practice. His guidance throughout my fellowship not only deepened my technical skills but also taught me the value of compassion and teamwork in complex transplant cases. I remain deeply grateful for his guidance and for the lasting impact he has had on my career.
Tushar Vachharajani
India
ISN Fellow 1994-1996 Chair, ISN Core Program Committee 2023-2025
The ISN Fellowship laid the foundation for my entire career. The opportunities, encouragement, and support I received from my mentors helped me explore the field of interventional nephrology. Later, I became an ISN Ambassador, raising awareness of the specialty worldwide, particularly in India and East Africa.
Over the past 30 years, I’ve supported the ISN’s mission through multiple leadership roles. The joy of interacting with trainees and colleagues globally is beyond description. One unforgettable moment was guiding a trainee to master a key technique: manipulating a guide wire from the azygos vein to the inferior vena cava under fluoroscopy. Another cherished memory was being unofficially honored as a “Kenyan Citizen” for my many visits and contributions to Kenya.
Kirill Komissarov
Belarus
ISN Fellow 2012, ISN Fellowship Committee Member 2019-2025
It’s unforgettable to drink espresso with Italian nephrologists after lunch. The coffee was small—hard to stretch over an hour of conversation—but the experience was incredible. In that short time, we gained so much knowledge, covering nearly all chapters of the book “Comprehensive Clinical Nephrology.”
This program, I would say, is for those who believe “the world Is not enough”—for those who want to go further and never stop improving.
Gültekin Süleymanlar
Turkey
ISN Fellow 1989-1991
I was the first ISN renal fellow from Turkey and had the opportunity to work in the clinic of an exceptional scientist, Dr. R.W. Schrier, in Denver in August 1989. I was excited but anxious about adapting to a new country, professional environment, and system. Thanks to the close attention and support of my mentors, I settled into a productive and pleasant work environment.
After returning to Turkey in 1991, I contributed to the establishment and growth of the nephrology and hypertension department at Akdeniz University Faculty of Medicine and established transplantation nephrology. Over the past 30 years, I have actively participated in more than 5,500 kidney transplants as a transplant nephrologist. Today, our center remains one of the leading organ transplantation units in Turkey. The training I received in experimental nephrology, transplantation nephrology, and pathology was invaluable and continues to shape my practice today.
Trung Toan Duong
Vietnam
ISN Fellow 2015
One particularly memorable moment during my ISN Fellowship was the opportunity to observe clinical practice alongside Professor Richard Phoon and Professor Vincent Lee at the Renal Center of Westmead Hospital. I also had the chance to meet Richard Allen from Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and Professor David Harris from Westmead Clinical School. These renowned experts had visited our country many times, sharing their invaluable expertise on hemodialysis patient management, apheresis procedures, and organ transplantation.
I had the privilege of assisting them in several complex cases, including ABO-incompatible kidney transplants. Witnessing their skill and dedication firsthand was truly inspiring. It reinforced my commitment to advancing nephrology in my home country and providing the best possible care to my patients.
Additionally, I attended the ANZSN 2015 conference, thanks to sponsorship from Professor Vincent Lee. I learned a great deal and had the opportunity to network with leading nephrology experts at this world-class event. The ISN Fellowship program opened my eyes to the vast possibilities in nephrology. It was an invaluable experience that broadened my horizons and equipped me with the knowledge and skills to make a real difference in the lives of my patients.
Rolando Claure Del Granado
Bolivia
ISN Fellow 2009-2011 ISN Fellowship Committee 2017-2025 Chair, ISN Fellowship Committee 2025-2027
My experience with the ISN Fellowship Program was transformative in building both my skills and confidence as a nephrologist. It provided me with unique training and mentorship opportunities that were instrumental in shaping my career.
The program also allowed me to forge lasting connections with mentors and peers worldwide, which remain a source of support and collaboration in my ongoing work. I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to Dr. Ravi Mehta for his invaluable mentorship during my fellowship. His guidance, encouragement, and expertise were essential in shaping my skills and perspectives in nephrology.
Thank you, Dr. Mehta, for your unwavering belief in my potential and for being such a pivotal part of my professional journey.
Nirajan Mainali
Nepal
ISN Fellow 2018-2019
I did my fellowship at the University of Alberta in Edmonton, Canada. Staying away from family in a freezing climate was quite a challenge.
My biggest success was establishing a renal lab in Nepal. Reporting a monoclonal IgA nephropathy with a lattice-like pattern was a memorable achievement, but my favorite lifetime memory was when my professor said, “You are ready to take my seat.” That moment meant a lot to someone like me, coming from a developing country like Nepal.
Some training makes you capable, but it is up to you to make your country capable from that training.
Fatiu Arogundade
Nigeria
ISN Fellow 2001-2002
The fellowship program broadened my horizons in nephrology practice, research, and training. It significantly enhanced my mentoring and administrative skills.
Just two months after returning home from my ISN Fellowship, I coordinated our first kidney transplantation. At the time, we had no laboratory for HLA typing, so I personally took the samples to Cairo, Egypt, in preparation for the surgery.
I have trained over 30 nephrologists and served as a home mentor to five fellows across different centers in four countries. Today, I serve as the College Registrar at the Nigerian Postgraduate Medical College, where I coordinate postgraduate medical training in all specialties of medicine and dentistry.
I continue to participate in collaborative research, mentor candidates, and examine postgraduate students in nephrology.
Elliot Tannor
Ghana
ISN Fellow 2015-2016
The ISN Fellowship changed my world. I trained in Cape Town, South Africa, and it opened many doors for me—into research, general nephrology, advocacy, and career progression.
I am now heavily involved in ISN activities and was part of the first cohort of the ISN Emerging Leaders Program, which brought even greater opportunities.
The greatest challenge during my fellowship was leaving my young family for two years. However, I was able to bag two certificates, in addition to the ISN Fellowship certificate, and won an award for publishing two manuscripts during my training.
I have significantly developed my nephrology skills and become a thought leader in nephrology, both in Ghana and in Africa.
Karen Courville
Panama
ISN Fellow 2010-2011
My most memorable moment was meeting great researchers I had read about in journals and having my ideas taken into account as part of the team. That felt incredible! Coming from a small country, being given the opportunity to contribute at that level—even to the Lancet—was a dream come true.
When you get home, you want to reach the moon! It is crucial to keep strengthening the program so more young nephrologists can have these opportunities.
I will be eternally grateful for the teachings of Dr. Norberto Perico and the collaboration of the team at the Mario Negri Institute, under the direction of Dr. Giuseppe Remuzzi.
Rümeyza Kazancıoğlu
Turkey
ISN Fellow 2000 Host Mentor 2022-2023 Chair, ISN Fellowship Committee 2023-2025
The start of this journey began when I connected with my former peer supporter, Dr. Simin Goral, from Istanbul School of Medicine. She referred me to the transplant nephrology division at Vanderbilt University, particularly to Professor Harold Helderman. I later had the opportunity to meet with Professor John Dirks in Istanbul, who interviewed me before my ISN grant application. Professor Reshad Barsoum, Chair of the Committee, sent me my approval letter.
During my fellowship, I had the opportunity to write many papers beyond my proposal topic and present them at various meetings. The advice I received from Professor Helderman still echoes in my ears: “Go back home and become a good clinician.” I took that advice to heart and worked hard to establish nephrology programs in the institutes I have worked in. I have also trained both national and international nephrology fellows.
Today, I am honored to serve as chair of the ISN Fellowship Committee and have been part of this 40-year-old committee for the last 10 years. Having benefitted from this program, I wanted to give back and contribute to ISN’s impact by supporting colleagues who are committed to kidney health care wherever they are located in the world.
Yingyos Avihingsanon
Thailand
ISN Fellow 1999-2000, Host Mentor 2022-2023
The ISN Fellowship was a major step in my early career as a medical school teacher. A year at Harvard Medical School broadened my research perspective. Since completing the fellowship, I have gained two decades of successful teaching and research experience at my home institute.
Today, I am Chief of the Renal Division and ISN Regional Training Center. This role reflects not only my personal achievements but also the opportunity to give back to the ISN community. I am deeply grateful to Professor Kriang Tungsanga of Chulalongkorn University, Thailand, for his guidance and support.
Randall Lou-Meda
Guatemala
ISN Fellow 1998-1999
I applied to the ISN Fellowship Program as a pediatrician seeking specialized training in pediatric nephrology, a discipline that was virtually non-existent in Guatemala at the time. Through the fellowship, I trained at one of the world’s leading centers.
Upon my return, my mentor supported me in building a program through the Sister Centers Program. Today, our facility serves as the National Referral Center for Pediatric Kidney Disease in Guatemala and is recognized as one of the ISN Regional Training Centers.
Special thanks to Dr. Richard L. Siegler, my mentor (1939–2014), for his invaluable guidance and support.
Suman Lata
India
ISN Fellow 2011
The fellowship program helped me establish a transplant program at my center and gave me the courage to handle high-risk transplants, including HLA-incompatible transplants. It was challenging to stay in a foreign country, especially with a 7-year-old child at home. Adjusting emotionally was difficult, but my mentor and colleagues at the center provided tremendous support.
It was a wonderful experience and I learned a lot, professionally and personally. We all read and say that transplantation changes lives and one can live a near-normal life. I will never forget seeing a transplant patient carry a full-term pregnancy and give birth to a beautiful, healthy child. That moment ignited my passion for transplant and pregnancy care.
Today, I focus on managing female transplant patients during pregnancy, combining my expertise to make a meaningful difference in their lives.
Toby Coates
Australia
Host Mentor 2018-2019
Being involved in the ISN Fellowship Program as a mentor has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my nephrology career. It was a privilege to host Dr. Maisarah Jalalonmuhali—an exceptional young transplant nephrologist—within our department. During her time with us, she contributed to the Tissue Typing service in Adelaide, which produced three manuscripts.
I have been thrilled to see Maisarah’s progress in Malaysian transplantation and have followed her career with great interest. On a personal note, it was wonderful to have her and her family live in Adelaide for a year. Such positive experiences have now led to our unit establishing a formal arrangement to host Malaysian nephrologists as trainees or fellows.
The ISN really serves global nephrology in a unique way by providing opportunities for us to host trainees within our region. Building these bridges fosters academic and social friendships that endure for years. Through programs like the ISN Fellowships, we enhance the global understanding of nephrology, ultimately translating into improved patient care worldwide.
Susan Uthup
India
ISN Fellow 2012-2013
My ISN Fellowship shaped me into a more refined pediatric nephrologist. Inspired by the CCHMC model, I worked to emulate its approach. The successful establishment of a pediatric nephrology program at my center over the next 12 years is a testament to the fellowship’s impact on my career.
The experience refined me not only as a clinician and academician but also as a person—instilling empathy, enthusiasm, and a passion for excellence. The entire community benefited as children with kidney diseases, regardless of financial status, gained access to state-of-the-art treatment and support after the department was upgraded to its current status.
Under the mentorship of Dr. Prasad, I found the drive torealize my dream of establishing and developing a kidney care facility for children in South India. ISN’s ongoing support has been invaluable, allowing us to participate in SRC collaborations with CCHMC, CME programs, the Educational Ambassadors Program, and annual World Kidney Day celebrations.
José Suassuna
Brazil
ISN Fellow 1987-1989
I trained under J. Stewart Cameron during the third round of the ISN Fellowship Program. I came from Brazil, having completed my training in Iinternal Medicine and Intensive Care Medicine at Rio de Janeiro State University. Looking back, I can confidently say that my entire career was shaped by the time I spent at Guy’s Hospital.
To this day, I vividly remember those formative years—the challenges I faced, the lasting friendships I built, and the luminous figure of Stewart Cameron, who inspired not only me but the entire community at Guy’s Hospital.
I believe that as the years go by, the specific subject of training during the fellowship wanes, as medicine is ever-progressing and new knowledge supersedes and refines what was previously established. However the experience of being mentored by some of the major nephrologists of the time, the exchange of experience with other mentees, the surpassing of the many challenges presented when experiencing a new country and culture, and above all the shaping of our behavior and beliefs by what I call the “hidden curriculum” is what made ISN’s fellowship program such a successful endeavor that impacted the career of its many participants as well as countless lives of patients and families in our home countries.
Onex Ton-Aimé
Haiti
ISN Fellow 2023-2024
The ISN Fellowship Program was a turning point in my career. It gave me the opportunity to train at one of the world’s leading nephrology centers, where I learned advanced techniques in assessing children with renal diseases, kidney transplantation, and dialysis.
Upon returning to my home country, I contributed to improving the diagnosis and care of children with kidney diseases and have since provided life-saving treatment to many young patients. The mentorship I received was invaluable and continues to shape my practice today.
One of the challenges I faced was adapting to different healthcare practices in a foreign environment. However, this experience broadened my perspective and enabled me to introduce innovative procedures back home. My greatest satisfaction has been reducing the mortality rate in children with renal diseases.
Narayan Prasad
India
Host Mentor 2023-2024
I had the privilege of mentoring Dr. Han from Myanmar, who was trained in all aspects of nephrology, including clinical care, dialysis (PD/HD), interventions, and transplantation. As a mentor, one of my major concerns was whether the fellow would have the necessary infrastructure at their home hospital to apply their training.
It has been immensely satisfying to mentor a fellow from a developing country and witness the positive impact of their journey. I believe that structured fellowship programs are essential to enhancing kidney care. I am grateful to Dr. Nyi Min Han for showing confidence in our center and highlighting its capabilities.
Ugochi Onu
Nigeria
ISN Fellow 2016-2017
I trained at the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) Chandigarh, India, under the mentorship of Prof. Krishan Lal Gupta and Prof. Vivekanand Jha as my host mentors, and Prof. Ifeoma Ulasi as my home mentor.
A day after my arrival at the training institution, I was called into the office of Prof. Krishan Lal Gupta, the Head of the Department. He appeared strict and unapproachable. He informed me that the hospital management was unaware of my arrival and that I did not have the necessary qualifications to fit into their regular training program. He told me I might have to return to my country while the correct documentation and planning were sorted out.
I cry very easily, and as tears began to pour, his demeanor changed. He looked confused at first, but when I explained that I had sacrificed so much to be there—leaving my husband and four children, including a six-week-old baby born via a cesarean section that I was yet to fully heal from—his expression softened. His strictness turned into the determination of a father fighting for his daughter.
He held my hand and told me to stop crying, assuring me that he would ensure I received the training I had sacrificed so much for. True to his word, he fulfilled his promise, and instead of being sent back home, I successfully completed my fellowship training.
Razeen Davids
South Africa
ISN Fellow 2000-2001, Host Mentor 2005-Present
I spent my year as an ISN Fellow with Professor Mitch Halperin at the University of Toronto and St. Michael’s Hospital from July 2000 to June 2001. This experience far exceeded all my expectations. It was not only the most intellectually stimulating year of my academic career, but the friendship and generosity of Mitch and his wife Brenda made it an unforgettable and uniquely positive experience for my entire family.
Mitch was the ultimate problem solver, uncovering patterns where others might not even think to look and encouraging creative thinking and a reliance on basic principles in his trainees. I vividly remember one day when we were fishing on the lake (not catching anything!), he asked, “Razeen, did you know that a seal can stay underwater for 40 minutes? Tell me what physiological adaptations might make this possible.”
Since returning from my ISN Fellowship in Toronto in 2001, it has been a privilege and honor to close the circle and serve as a host mentor to many ISN Fellows from other countries. We have trained 18 ISN Fellows from Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Zambia, Tanzania, Uganda, and Nepal. It has been immensely rewarding to contribute to the development of talented young colleagues and see them thrive and excel upon their return home.
Alfred Meremo
Tanzania
ISN Fellow 2018-2020
I will never forget the first day I admitted a patient for a live-related kidney transplant. I prepared the patient, performed all the necessary investigations and procedures, and prescribed the medications, ensuring all protocols were meticulously followed from admission to discharge.
The ISN Fellowship helped me become a better leader, teacher, and mentor to my medical students, residents, and colleagues. It also enabled me to publish research papers in peer-reviewed journals.
With the increasing global burden of kidney disease, including CKD, the world needs more nephrologists than ever before. The ISN Fellowship Program plays a critical role in advancing this goal and accelerating progress in kidney care.
Suzana Melo
Brazil
ISN Fellow 1997-1999
During my nephrology residency, I had never seen a kidney biopsy. How could I manage patients with glomerulopathy if my city lacked nephropathology services? As a result, I became the first young nephrologist in my city with expertise in histologically diagnosing glomerular pathologies based on clinical presentations. I will never forget the day I met Dr. Charles Jennette, a world-renowned nephropathologist. He welcomed me warmly and shared invaluable knowledge in nephrology and nephropathology. This experience was transformative for my professional life, my patients, and other nephrologists in Northern Brazil.
Somkanya Tungsanga
Thailand
ISN Fellow 2022-2023
The ISN Fellowship program profoundly impacted my career, providing invaluable opportunities to collaborate with world-renowned nephrology experts. Through the program, I was able to work alongside leading authorities on the Global Kidney Health Atlas (GKHA). Beyond training, the ISN Fellowship broadened my global perspective, fostering collaboration to enhance research and clinical expertise. The program’s commitment to passing knowledge to the next generation of nephrologists drives meaningful advancements in kidney care worldwide.
Racquel Lowe-Jones
Jamaica
ISN Fellow 2017-2019, ISN Fellowship Committee 2021-Present
The ISN Clinical Fellowship was not just a professional growth opportunity—it highlighted the importance of mentorship. From day one, my host mentor challenged me, helping me improve my oral and written presentations and instilling confidence in my leadership and decision-making abilities. Upon returning to Jamaica, I embraced mentorship, encouraging juniors to pursue nephrology. I also championed senior medical leadership, developing a renal anemia clinic with support from hospital administrators and nursing management. My ISN Fellowship gave me the confidence to advocate for kidney care on behalf of my patients locally, regionally, and internationally.
Mignon McCulloch
South Africa
Host Mentor 2004-Present
As a trainer, the ISN Fellowship program has revolutionized pediatric nephrology in Africa. At Red Cross Children’s Hospital in Cape Town, we have trained over 40 pediatric nephrology fellows through a combination of ISN/IPNA fellowships. We aim to have at least one pediatric nephrologist in every country in Africa. My fellows inspire me. We have expanded pediatric nephrology across the continent. Thanks to all former ISN presidents and Fellowship Chairs for their contributions to this progress.
Jyoti Sharma
India
ISN Fellow 2008
The best advice I received from my mentor, Dr. Paul Goodyer, during my IPNA training in Bengaluru, India, was, “If you can’t do a long training, do as many shorter stints as you can and need to.” This mantra guided me throughout my career. Over the last 14 years, I have established a comprehensive program providing outpatient and inpatient care for children with kidney diseases, including acute and maintenance HD, continuous PD, PLEX, and transplants. We also run an accredited training program in pediatric nephrology. Although my ISN Fellowship was brief due to personal constraints, it opened my eyes to new possibilities. Beyond nephrology, I learned the value of teamwork and developed a belief in giving 360-degree respect—principles I continue to share with my trainees.
Samuel Ajayi
Nigeria
ISN Fellow 2000-2001
The ISN program opened opportunities to connect with colleagues worldwide. I trained under renowned nephrologists in Leicester, focusing on general nephrology, transplant nephrology, and organizational skills for nephrology clinics and services. Upon returning to Nigeria in 2001, I established one of the first nephrology services at the Federal Capital Territory in Abuja. This service has since expanded, training many nephrologists who have gone on to make significant contributions. As a result of my ISN Fellowship, we also established the Sister Training Centre with Leicester General Hospital, UK. My training was facilitated by Professor Kevin Harris (my host mentor), Professor Nigel Brunskill, Professor John Feehally, Professor Susan Carr, Dr. Graham Warrick, and others.
Fan Fan Hou
China
ISN Fellow 1996-1998
In 1996, I was awarded the ISN Fellowship to train at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, under Dr. William F. Owen and Dr. Barry M. Brenner. The fellowship was an unforgettable experience, exposing me to research projects, teaching, and various clinical training aspects. I particularly enjoyed stimulating lectures, collaborative research, and discussions with investigators worldwide. In 2001, I received “The Best Fellow’s Poster (First Prize)” for my paper Receptor for advanced glycation end products on human synovial fibroblasts: role in the pathogenesis of dialysis-related amyloidosis. This experience enriched my knowledge, advanced my professional career, and rand gave me the faith to dedicate my life to serving patients and the society.
Carmen Avila-Casado
Mexico
ISN Fellow 1991-1993, Host Mentor 2023-2024
The ISN Fellowship program marked a decisive moment in my professional and personal life. Training under the best mentor possible, Dr. Helmut Rennke at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, exposed me to a world-class academic environment led by Dr. Barry Brenner and the best nephrologists in the field. Upon returning to Mexico, my first challenge was securing funding for a research lab and training technicians in best practices for renal pathology. It was deeply rewarding to show my mentor, Dr. Rennke, the progress made during his visit. My mission is to elevate renal pathology, particularly in underdeveloped regions. I’ve continued to give back by serving as Chair of the ISN Renal Pathology Working Group, an Educational Ambassador, and a member of CONGAN.
Urmila Anandh
India
ISN Fellow 1999-2000
The ISN Fellowship was a milestone in my professional life, offering exposure to both clinical and basic science work. I recall my mentor who had a Fabry’s disease clinic saying how MPGN would soon be classified as a complement-related disease—prophetic words. During my fellowship, I faced challenges, including breaking my leg and adapting to a new healthcare system. Despite these obstacles, I completed my fellowship in Uganda and later began advocacy work in India. My greatest success has been establishing a large NGO in Karnataka, alongside my clinical commitments, to make a difference in patient care.
Azra Bihorac
Bosnia & Herzegovina/Turkey
ISN Fellow 1999-2000
My ISN Fellowship was truly life-changing, marking a pivotal moment in my career as a nephrologist/scientist and reshaping my life story. After leaving Bosnia as a refugee and settling temporarily in Turkey, the fellowship helped me find a new home in the United States. During my fellowship in 1999, I transitioned from research to clinical training, completing my education not only in nephrology but also in critical care medicine. My scientific focus shifted from peritoneal dialysis to acute kidney injury, which became the cornerstone of my research career.
Following the fellowship, I joined the University of Florida as a faculty member, where I developed a successful career as a physician-scientist. Today, I am proud to serve as Senior Associate Dean for Research Affairs at the University of Florida College of Medicine. The ISN Fellowship was instrumental in transforming my professional path and personal life.
Christina Amira
Nigeria
ISN Fellow 2003-2004
The ISN Fellowship program represented a pivotal moment in my professional journey. I trained at a leading nephrology center in South Africa, gaining expertise in kidney biopsies, hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, and kidney transplantation. Upon returning to my home country, I successfully established a kidney transplant unit, marking the start of transplantation at my center. I also improved overall nephrology care for patients. The mentorship I received was invaluable and continues to shape my practice today.
Rashad Barsoum
Egypt
Host Mentor 1999-2022
I am honored to reflect on the profound impact that Professor Rashad Barsoum had on my life and the ISN Fellowship program. His wisdom and dedication inspired countless individuals, including myself. I vividly recall his warm encouragement during our first meeting, despite him being an eminent figure and me being a junior member: “You are here to teach us what we don’t know, and we will teach you what we know.” His humility and openness set the tone for our collaboration and learning.
In his final days, when illness tried to hinder him, Professor Barsoum’s spirit remained unyielding. He fiercely championed the continuation of the program, ensuring that the center maintained its role as a Regional Training Center.
During this challenging time, he showed immense faith in me, empowering me to step in as his deputy. He motivated me with words that continue to resonate: “The center and all of you should keep doing what I used to do during my life.” His unwavering support and dedication were invaluable as we worked together to ensure the program thrived.
Professor Barsoum’s commitment to education and training spanned decades, and his vision was not limited to his lifetime. He passionately insisted that the program and its mission endure, infusing everyone around him with his dedication. For all he gave and taught us, his legacy is deeply etched in our hearts and continues to guide us. Thank you, Professor Barsoum, for lighting the way and for inspiring us to carry forward your extraordinary mission.
Anh Nguyen
Vietnam
ISN Fellow 2016-2017
The ISN Fellowship program was a unique opportunity for professional growth. My time at Westmead Hospital allowed me to enhance my skills in clinical care for patients on dialysis or transplantation, as well as in general nephrology. I have also undergone significant work in clinical research with my lovely mentor, Associate Professor Vincent Lee, whose guidance remains a cornerstone of my career. Our relationship has been permanent through the ISN Mentorship program and the ISN Sister Renal Center Program until now, and although he’s involved in quote a few activities, he’s always there when I need help.
I am also grateful to Kathy Kable, a nurse practitioner and close friend. She works as a liaison between renal, dialysis and transplant teams. Anytime I struggled at work or outside the hospital, I believed that Kathy would always be able to help.
I would also like to say thank you to the renal advanced trainees, physicians, and medical students I worked with—and to the patients, whose interactions helped me grow both my renal and English skills. The relationships I formed continue to enrich my practice today.
Mustafa Arici
Turkey
ISN Fellow 1998-2000
The ISN Fellowship opened many new paths for my career. I gained experience in basic science research, clinical practice in a new country, and formed lifelong friendships. Most importantly, it increased my self-confidence and gave me a global perspective on nephrology. Adapting to new laboratory techniques and a different healthcare system was challenging, but it allowed me to grow and push my limits. My biggest accomplishment was developing a deeper understanding of basic science and a global approach to patient care. Even after 24 years, I cherish the friendships formed during my fellowship, which remain one of my most meaningful memories.