Nurturing the Next Generation of Healers: A Call to Empower Young Doctors in Dermatology and Beyond

Dr. Kofi Ansah Brifo -West Africa Representative of Communication Committee— International Society of Dermatology (ISD), Educator, and Founder of Skin Foundation Africa (SFA).

At a recent session with medical students of Accra College of Medicine, Ghanaian dermatologist Dr. Kofi Ansah Brifo reignited a continental conversation on mentorship, empowerment, and the urgent need to train more dermatologists across Africa — echoing the global vision of Dr. Martin Kassir, President of the International Society of Dermatology (ISD).

“We must raise, not restrict; empower, not eclipse.” — Dr. Kofi Ansah Brifo

Inspiring the Next Generation of Healers

In an uplifting academic exchange with the brilliant medical students of the Accra College of Medicine (ACM), I was reminded of the immense promise embedded in Africa’s youth — their passion, curiosity, and drive to make a difference. Teaching and mentoring these young minds reaffirmed a lifelong conviction: that the future of medicine depends on how well we equip, encourage, and empower those who come after us.

Dr. Martin Kassir’s Vision for Africa’s Dermatologists

The vision of Dr. Martin Kassir, globally respected dermatologist and President of the International Society of Dermatology (ISD), is both noble and necessary: to train more dermatologists within Africa who will transform lives through knowledge, compassion, and world-class care.

In a continent where dermatological conditions — from pigmentary disorders to tropical infections — affect millions daily, this dream carries profound public health importance. Dermatology is not just about aesthetics; it’s about restoring dignity, managing chronic skin diseases, and improving quality of life.

To achieve this, Africa needs more young physicians trained in dermatology, supported by mentors who understand both the science of skin and the humanity of healing.

The Need to End Suppression and Foster Support

One of the silent challenges in African medicine today is institutional suppression of younger doctors — an environment where talent is often stifled rather than cultivated. Too many promising physicians face resistance when they innovate or aspire to leadership roles.

This culture must change. True leadership in medicine is not about control, but continuity. The measure of a great clinician is not how many subordinates they command, but how many leaders they produce. The time has come to replace competition with collaboration, and hierarchy with mentorship.

“The older generation must see the younger not as a threat, but as a legacy.”

Mentorship: The Engine of Medical Growth

Mentorship transforms potential into excellence. It bridges the gap between theory and practice, between aspiration and achievement. In dermatology, where clinical nuance and empathy intertwine, mentorship becomes indispensable.

At the Skin Foundation Africa (SFA) and through the Summer Skin Project (SSP), we have seen remarkable results when young doctors are empowered to take initiative. With guidance, they innovate. With encouragement, they excel. With opportunity, they lead.

Every experienced physician carries a responsibility — to pass on knowledge, instil confidence, and shape the ethical compass of those entering the field.

Empowering Young Doctors: Building Leaders, Not Followers

Africa’s healthcare sustainability depends on nurturing leadership among young doctors. They must be given the platform to engage in research, education, and advocacy — not merely as observers, but as contributors to policy and progress.

This will require: Structured mentorship programmes across hospitals and training institutions.

Regional postgraduate dermatology fellowships through public-private partnerships.

International collaborations that expose young doctors to global standards of care.

Representation of young doctors in leadership and policy-making committees. Such measures not only strengthen the medical ecosystem but also ensure continuity, diversity, and excellence in healthcare delivery.

Conclusion: Healing Beyond the Skin

Medicine is more than science — it is service. Every encounter with a student or patient is an opportunity to ignite purpose. The future of African dermatology depends not only on technical skill, but on compassion, collaboration, and courage to lift others higher.

If Africa is to achieve Dr. Kassir’s vision, we must abandon outdated hierarchies and embrace shared growth. We must raise young doctors to be better than us, for that is the truest measure of success.

“Education remains the seed of transformation — and mentorship, the soil in which it grows.”

Together, we rise — for better skin health, better science, and a better Africa.