Building leadership, surgical excellence, and innovation through impactful events and global collaboration.
The International Women's Surgical Society (IWSS) was founded in 2023 by medical student Zohra Rao to combat systemic gender imbalances in surgery. Globally, women comprise just over 20% of the surgical workforce due to networks and gender bias rather than merit. IWSS was born to challenge this reality within student spaces in Georgia. Today, it stands as the first women-led and first surgical student organization of its kind in the country. While women hold most leadership positions, the society proudly welcomes men who champion surgical equity. Since its founding, IWSS has cultivated a safe, empowering space where ambitious students pursue excellence without traditional barriers.
Between 2023 and 2026, IWSS engaged over 600 students, hosted seven conferences, and delivered multiple hands-on workshops. The organization also spearheaded research projects and established international collaborations with universities in Poland and the UAE. Looking ahead, IWSS is expanding globally to reach aspiring surgeons in every corner of the world. The society is reimagining student conferences by delivering immersive experiences that equip future doctors with clinical and research skills. IWSS operates on the core belief that when doors are opened, talent speaks for itself.
Zohra Rao is a final-year medical student, honors scholar, researcher, and healthcare leader who serves as the Founder and CEO of the International Women’s Surgical Society (IWSS). Her medical journey is deeply defined by vision, resilience, and transforming institutional challenges into systems of change.
During her clinical observerships, she witnessed firsthand the structural barriers and distinct lack of mentorship for women. Instead of accepting these limitations, she built a global platform to completely change the landscape. Under her leadership, IWSS empowers women in surgery and advances global mentorship across borders.The organization creates meaningful academic and leadership opportunities for medical students worldwide. IWSS has successfully expanded its reach, including hosting an international conference in Poland.
Zohra also led innovative, student-led initiatives bridging medicine and dentistry in Georgia. She remains actively committed to research mentorship, innovation, and healthcare education excellence. Ultimately, she believes leadership is defined by courageously building an impact that lasts.
I'm Sumaiya Nadeem Saeed, President of the Dental Team at IWSS. Pakistani by roots, raised in Kuwait, and currently in my final semester of dental school at Tbilisi State University — my journey has always been one of crossing borders and pushing limits. From joining IWSS as a new member to serving as General Secretary and now leading as President, my growth within this organization has been incredible.
She serves as President of the Dental Team at IWSS, a role she has earned through dedication and resilience. Under her leadership, the team has hosted incredibly successful dental conferences, a testament to what hard work and strong teamwork can achieve.
Living with Thalassemia has shaped me into someone who thrives under pressure and never backs down. Under my leadership, IWSS has delivered highly successful dental conferences, and I believe that is just the beginning. I strongly believe hardwork always bears results, giving up is never the answer. Every day, I strive to inspire my team and push us all to do more.
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