Our Esteemed Speakers

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Professor Muguti holds the Chair in Surgery at the University of Zimbabwe and is a Clinical Professor at Stanford University. He serves as President of COSECSA and Co-Director of the COSECSA-Oxford Orthopaedic Link Project. A former Commissioner on Zimbabwe's Health Review, he was also the Editor-in-Chief of the Central African Journal of Medicine. His expertise spans general, plastic, and reconstructive surgery, with a focus on advancing surgical training across Africa.

Mr. Biyani, a Consultant Urological Surgeon at St. James's University Hospital, Leeds, specializes in minimally invasive surgery, stone disease, and prostate disorders. A passionate educator, he co-led the National Urology Simulation Boot Camp and Leeds Cadaveric Simulation Centre. His contributions earned him the John Anderson Medal from BAUS in 2021. Mr. Biyani has published widely and served on the European Association of Urology’s Complications Reporting Panel.

Professor Shafi Ahmed is a globally renowned colorectal surgeon and digital health innovator. Famous for live-streaming surgeries with Google Glass, he co-founded Medical Realities, a VR education platform. Professor Ahmed has been featured in "Operation Live" and is a recipient of the NHS Future Leader Award. He advises the NHS Assembly on digital health, teaches at prestigious universities, and has delivered over 200 keynotes worldwide, contributing extensively to surgical training and healthcare innovation.

Professor Bijendra Patel is a Consultant Surgeon at UCLH, specializing in laparoscopic surgery. He established the world’s first VR-based Master's in Surgical Skills at Queen Mary University, focusing on simulation for enhanced learning. He is a founding member of the Society of Surgical Simulation and the Journal of Surgical Simulation. A pioneer in technology-enhanced surgical education, Professor Patel has presented at numerous international conferences, advancing skills training globally.

Dr. Paul Barach, MD, MPH, is an anesthesiologist, critical care physician, and public health researcher. With over 25 years of experience, he has contributed to key initiatives like TeamSTEPPS and secured significant funding for patient safety projects. He is a senior advisor at Jefferson College of Population Health and holds visiting professorships globally. Dr. Barach’s research focuses on patient safety, health systems governance, and interprofessional learning to improve healthcare quality.

Professor Prokar Dasgupta is a Consultant Urologist at Guy’s Hospital and a pioneer in robotic surgery. He is the first Professor of Robotic Surgery at King’s College and a leader in prostate cancer research. He developed a technique using Botulinum toxin for bladder issues. Former Editor-in-Chief of BJUI, he has raised funds for charity and received Fellowships of the Linnaean Society and King’s College for his contributions to urology and medical education.

Captain Gianluigi Zanovello, former Leader of the Frecce Tricolori and Air Force Test Center Commander, has 45 years of piloting experience. He has applied aviation safety principles to healthcare, emphasizing simulation and non-technical skills. With a background in political science and aeronautics, Captain Zanovello has been an advocate for cross-industry learning, enhancing patient safety through aviation methodologies. He currently resides in Verona, Italy, and continues to collaborate on safety initiatives.

Dr. Sana Farid is a surgeon and entrepreneur recognized among the top 100 women in Extended Reality (XR). She is a leading figure in implementing immersive technologies, establishing industry standards, and promoting XR's safe use. Dr. Farid has been featured on various influential lists for her contributions to healthcare technology. A sought-after speaker, she has presented at events like GITEX and the MIT Entrepreneurship Forum, shaping the future of VR and healthcare innovation.

Professor Tan Arulampalam is a consultant laparoscopic surgeon specializing in colorectal surgery. He leads courses in surgical skills and developed a Master's program in minimally invasive surgery. His current research focuses on artificial intelligence in surgery, patient safety, and training future surgeons. He serves on the European Association of Endoscopic Surgeons' research committee and is the President of the Association of Laparoscopic Surgeons of Great Britain and Ireland (ALSGBI).