ACGME-I Honoring Excellence: Q and A with Ziyana AlKhusaibi
This interview is one in a series of interviews with recipients of the 2025 ACGME International Awards. The awardees join an outstanding group of current and previous honorees whose work and contributions to graduate medical education (GME) around the world represent the best in the field. They will be honored at the 2025 ACGME Annual Educational Conference, taking place 20-22 February 2025, in Nashville, Tennessee, US.
2025 ACGME International Staff Awardee Ziyana AlKhusaibi is the manager of Graduate Medical Education at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates. ACGME-I spoke with Mrs. AlKhusaibi about her career and what receiving this award means to her.
ACGME-I: How did you become involved in medicine, and in academic medicine specifically?
Mrs. AlKhusaibi: With a background in pediatric nursing, I developed a deep appreciation for patient care and the critical role of well-trained physicians in improving health outcomes. This inspired me to transition into medical education administration, where I saw an opportunity to make a broader impact. Working in graduate medical education (GME) allows me to contribute to the development of future physicians and strengthen health care systems through high-quality education and training programs.
ACGME-I: What does this award mean to you?
Mrs. AlKhusaibi: Receiving this award is a tremendous honor and a humbling acknowledgment of the collective efforts that have shaped GME in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It reflects not just my contributions, but also the hard work of the teams alongside whom I’ve had the privilege of working. This recognition motivates me to continue striving for excellence and advancing medical education in our region.
ACGME-I: As this award reflects the many contributions you’ve made to GME in the UAE, what would you consider to be the most rewarding aspect of your role?
Mrs. AlKhusaibi: The most rewarding aspect of my role is witnessing the transformation of residents and fellows as they progress through their education and training. Seeing them grow into skilled, compassionate physicians who contribute to the UAE’s health care system is truly fulfilling. Additionally, having been part of foundational initiatives, such as the Emirates-wide match program, and supporting the international accreditation of multiple programs, gives me a sense of pride in helping shape a strong medical education framework for the country.
ACGME-I: In your view, how has the overall strengthening of GME, especially through international accreditation, benefited the UAE’s medical education and health care systems?
Mrs. AlKhusaibi: The pursuit of international accreditation, such as through ACGME-I, has elevated the quality and rigor of medical education in the UAE. It ensures that our programs meet global standards, preparing our residents and fellows to deliver world-class care. This, in turn, enhances patient outcomes, strengthens public trust in our health care system, and positions the UAE as a regional leader in medical education.
ACGME-I: As a female leader in the administration of GME, what do you hope to see to further strengthen the position of women in medical education?
Mrs. AlKhusaibi: Empowering women is key to fostering innovation, diversity, and progress. Women bring unique perspectives, organizational strengths, and leadership styles that are invaluable to medical education. Additionally, representation matters, and fostering mentorship opportunities, supportive work environments, and leadership development programs will help pave the way for the next generation of female leaders to excel and contribute meaningfully to the field.
ACGME-I: Is there anything you would like to add?
Mrs. AlKhusaibi: What worked for me: Trusting your team’s abilities creates an environment where individuals feel valued and empowered to take initiative. By giving people the space to contribute, you not only unlock their full potential but also encourage creativity, innovation, and ownership of their work. This trust fosters a sense of collaboration, where every voice is heard, and contributions are recognized. Finally, I would like to acknowledge the collaborative efforts of my colleagues, mentors, and the leadership teams I’ve worked with over the years. Their unwavering support has been integral to our success in advancing GME in the UAE. It is a privilege to contribute to this journey and to play a part in shaping the future of health care in our nation.