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Yasir Jawaid on Mentorship, Innovation and Advancing Patient Care in Medicine

January 10, 2025

Yasir Jawaid was born in Houston, Texas, but moved to Pakistan during his early years. He grew up in a small company town in the desert region of Sind, Pakistan, where he spent his childhood playing sports and making lifelong friendships.

Eventually, Jawaid’s family settled in the bustling city of Karachi, a place that holds special significance for him due to its dynamic energy. After pursuing his medical graduate training in the United States, he embarked on a journey that took him from the Appalachian beauty of West Virginia to the vibrant streets of New York City, and finally to Washington, D.C. Throughout his career, he has encountered diverse cultures and communities, all of which have enriched his professional and personal life. Today, Yasir Jawaid continues to make significant contributions to his field, focusing on medicine, mentorship, and personal growth.

Early Influences and Lessons Learned

Who has been the most influential mentor in your career, and what lessons did they teach you?

It is hard to name one as I have had the pleasure of having several influential mentors who have shaped my growth. One of the most impactful lessons they taught me was the importance of adaptability. In a constantly changing environment, being able to learn new skills and adjust to evolving circumstances is essential. Another key lesson was the value of empathy—understanding different perspectives and connecting with others on a human level fosters collaboration and trust. Lastly, I was taught the significance of resilience; setbacks are inevitable, but the ability to persevere, learn from mistakes, and keep moving forward is what ultimately leads to growth and success.

Approach to Mentorship

How do you approach mentoring others within your organization or industry?

When mentoring, my approach centers on creating an open, supportive, and collaborative environment. I believe in leading by example and focusing on building trust from the outset. One of my main priorities is understanding the unique strengths and challenges of each individual so I can tailor my guidance accordingly. I also make it a point to foster independence. Instead of simply providing answers, I ask questions that encourage critical thinking and problem-solving. Ultimately, I see mentoring as a two-way relationship, where both parties benefit.

How do you cultivate relationships with mentors and mentees to ensure mutual growth?

I adapt my approach based on individual needs, offering guidance that fits their learning style and circumstances. Regular self-reflection and celebrating achievements, big or small, also help keep the relationship dynamic and productive. In addition, I commit to long-term connections, checking in even after formal mentorship ends, to foster ongoing growth for both sides.

What qualities do you look for in a mentor or advisor?

I look for a mentor who has experience, is empathetic, and offers honest, constructive feedback. They should be patient, encouraging, and adaptable to my unique needs. Integrity is key—trust is essential in any mentorship.

Evolution of Mentoring Style

How has your mentoring style evolved over time?

My mentoring style has evolved from a more directive approach to one that’s collaborative and adaptable. Early on, I focused on providing clear guidance and solutions, but over time, I’ve learned the importance of empowering mentees to think critically and solve problems themselves.

What impact has mentoring had on your personal and professional development?

Mentoring has had a profound impact on both my personal and professional development. Personally, it has helped me develop stronger communication and empathy. By listening to and guiding others, I’ve gained new perspectives and learned to be more patient and understanding. It has also kept me engaged and up-to-date with new trends and ideas, as mentees often bring fresh insights. Ultimately, mentoring has made me more reflective, adaptable, and aware of my own growth, while also reinforcing the importance of continuous learning.

Identifying and Supporting Potential Mentees

How do you identify potential mentees and foster their growth?

I identify potential mentees by looking for individuals who show curiosity, initiative, and a willingness to learn. They often display a strong work ethic, ask insightful questions, or seek feedback proactively. I also look for those who demonstrate self-awareness and a desire for personal or professional growth, as these traits make mentoring more impactful.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a mentor?

The most rewarding aspect of being a mentor is seeing my mentees grow, gain confidence, and achieve their goals. Watching them overcome challenges, develop new skills, and reach milestones they once thought were out of reach is incredibly fulfilling. It’s not just about sharing knowledge, but about empowering others to realize their potential and make meaningful progress in their careers and lives. Knowing I played a part in that growth is what makes mentoring truly rewarding.

Expertise and Achievements

What specific achievements in your career are you most proud of and why?

In my career, one of the achievements I am most proud of is successfully leading a multidisciplinary team to implement a new patient care model, which significantly improved patient outcomes and satisfaction. This achievement was particularly satisfying because it required collaboration across various departments, integrating diverse perspectives and expertise. It demonstrated the power of teamwork and the importance of holistic approaches in healthcare. Additionally, being able to mentor and witness the growth of junior colleagues as they develop into confident, skilled professionals is immensely gratifying.

Can you share a piece of advice that significantly changed your perspective or career path?

Absolutely. One piece of advice that profoundly changed my perspective was: “Don’t be afraid to embrace uncertainty; it’s often the only path to growth.” This advice resonated deeply with me, especially in a field like medicine, where rapid advancements and unpredictable challenges are common. Embracing uncertainty has allowed me to remain open to new opportunities and innovations, ultimately enriching my career and personal development.

Vision for the Future

What are your future goals and aspirations in your field?

My future goals involve continuing to innovate in patient care while fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement within my team. I aspire to expand my mentorship efforts, reaching more emerging professionals in the field, and help them navigate the complexities of modern healthcare. Additionally, I aim to contribute to policy development that supports equitable healthcare access, ensuring that quality care is available to all individuals, regardless of their background.

How do you stay connected with past mentors and continue to learn from them?

I stay connected with past mentors by maintaining regular communication through check-ins, whether it’s via email, occasional calls, or meetings. I make an effort to update them on my progress and challenges, keeping the relationship active and showing my appreciation for their past guidance. I also seek their advice when facing new career decisions or challenges, as their insights are invaluable.

What steps do you believe are necessary to advance your field in the coming years?

Advancing the field requires a multifaceted approach. We need to invest in cutting-edge research and technological advancements to stay ahead of evolving medical challenges. Equally important is prioritizing education and training, ensuring that healthcare professionals are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to adapt to new developments. Furthermore, fostering a more inclusive and equitable healthcare system is crucial. This means addressing systemic disparities and ensuring that advancements benefit all segments of society.

Yasir Jawaid continues to inspire and drive positive change within the medical community through his dedication to innovation, mentorship, and equitable healthcare practices. His vision for the future reflects a commitment to both professional excellence and societal well-being.