In life, unexpected experiences often shape our destinies. Dr Zahra Khan, a full-time cardiologist at the Aga Khan Hospital in Dar es Salaam, embodies this truth. Her journey from uncertainty to a fulfilling career dedicated to alleviating the suffering of others serves as an inspiring narrative of determination and resilience. “During primary school, I wasn’t sure if I could, but as time elapsed, seeing people around me with chronic diseases made me promise myself that I would be a doctor who wouldn’t let anyone else suffer like them,” she recalls. Commenting on what she thinks keeps women from climbing the corporate ladder, Dr Zahra shares that it’s challenging but not impossible. “Many of our paths to success were littered with obstacles created by unconscious gender, cultural norms, and educational level bias! It doesn’t matter if you had your education or how people treat you; all that matters is how you struggle and what your goal is,” shares Dr Zahra.