Dr. Umut Duygu Uzunel is this years Women of Distinction Award recipient for volunteerism. She is a lauded ophthalmologist devoted to providing free, essential eye care for women and children in underserved communities.
On June 8, you will be recognized with a YWCA Toronto’s Women of Distinction Award. Can you share what this award means to you?
I have been doing volunteer community work since 2014 and I had to take a little break between 2017 and 2020 because I was running from the political regime in Turkey and looking for refuge in Canada. After a long time facing adversity, this award gives me hope to pursue my dreams and encourages me to continue on. This award affirms that my work for those who are in need is important. There are a lot of treatable blind people around the world, half of which are living in the African continent and in poor countries that do not have access to healthcare. My aim is to reach those who are most vulnerable and in need of life-changing eye care. This award not only amplifies the importance of volunteerism but also increases the awareness of how essential access to healthcare is around the world.
What do you envision for the future in your sector?
I wish that every healthcare worker living in the Global North remembers the people living in the Global South. We are all living on the same earth and breathing the same air, but living in hugely different conditions. Those of us living in wealthier nations must use our knowledge and access to bring equality to the world. As healthcare workers, we can start by going to impoverished countries around the world, both to treat people and to train local healthcare workers. We should be driven by the phrase, “Do not only give them a fish but teach them how to fish.” I believe that if each healthcare worker was to spend only one day per year supporting communities in need abroad, there would be a significant improvement in the progress of access to healthcare in those communities.
What advice do you wish you could share with your younger self?
Due to my physical disability, a muscular disease that causes muscle weakness and requires assistance, I assumed I would not be able to volunteer as an ophthalmologist abroad. However, when I went to Somalia in 2014, with my friend’s support, I noticed that the obstacles were only in my mind and not in real life. I believe that if someone wants to do something good for humanity, they can. Therefore, I would say to my younger self “Don’t fear, you can do anything. What you do for humanity is extremely valuable and you can inspire all people with disabilities to engage in life, to do good things for others, and make the world a better place for all.”
February 22 was #YWCATorontoDay, proclaimed by the City of Toronto to recognize YWCA Toronto’s 150th anniversary. From your perspective, what would you say are YWCA Toronto’s greatest accomplishments over the years?
When I heard that YWCA Toronto is celebrating 150-years I was very surprised as it is almost as old as Canada’s history. I believe, given the long history of the Association, that there were great people at its foundation who thought of humanity and were aware of women’s issues at that time. It is quite significant and influential for everyone to work for others, to bring equality to the world, and to protect people, especially women and children. YWCA Toronto’s work has had a huge impact on the lives of many women, girls and gender diverse people. Each year, YWCA Toronto helps women, girls and gender diverse people to flee violence, access affordable housing and secure employment. 150 years is a great accomplishment. Each life that the YWCA touches is a greatest accomplishment, which means they have countless great accomplishments so far. Congratulations, YWCA Toronto, on your milestone!