What UK trust were you placed at?

Western Sussex Hospitals trust.

How did you decide to join the ISTP Programme?

I needed to gain some experience in the UK practice.

How has your journey as ISTP trainee been so far?

Overall,  excellent.

What do you wish you knew, before joining the ISTP programme and coming to the UK?

The initial settling costs were higher than I initially thought.

Has the ISTP Programme helped you with your professional and personal development?

I gained knowledge of up-to-date evidence based practise. I established a very useful network of colleagues. I also sat for my FRCS Urology.

What has been the biggest advantage of your placement under the ISTP programme?

GMC registration process was smooth.

What do you think has been the biggest challenge of undertaking the ISTP training post?

Adapting to a new environment and cold weather.

Would you recommend the ISTP training to your colleagues? Why?

Definitely. ISTP training opens up career doors, offers skills and knowledge. It helps one to become a complete surgeon through leadership and governance sessions.

What does day of ISTP trainee looks like?

It depends, it can range from ward round and clinics in the morning, to theatre in the afternoon.

What is the biggest difference between working in your home country and in the UK?

UK set up allows better access to human resources, diagnostic equipment and can be very specialised. On the other hand, patients in Africa are very thankful, even for little things that you offer. 

Do you have any favourite story from your UK training, which you would like to share?

Hello, I’ m Dr Mabedi, how can I help? 

Patient: Doctor who? 

Me : Dr Mabedi”

Patient: “Dr My babe”

Me: No, no,  Dr Mabedi. But you can call me Charles.

Patient: oh yeah, that’s easier, like prince Charles.

Me: No, no, no, don’t call me prince yet Patient: “not yet, ok ….ha ha ha, ok Charles.

How are you going to implement new skills and ideas when you return to your home?

I have already translated my knowledge into practise by introducing upper tract endoscopic stone surgery at my hospital in Malawi. I also want to train other surgeons in minimal invasive treatments of urological disease.

Are you the only doctor in your family?

No, I have a sister who is an amazing Anaesthesiologist. I am sure most surgeons would understand what this means…

When did you know you want to become a surgeon? What led you to choose your specialty?

It was in 2011, at the end of my internship. I saw how much difference surgeons were making in people's lives. This was  strengthened by the huge unmet need for surgery in Malawi and Africa as a whole.

How do you de-stress after intense day at work?

Playing with my two loving kids, they are an immense source of joy.

What would you want to be if you were not a surgeon?

Conservationist; I am in love with the nature. 

What is your biggest professional and personal dream for the future?

I want to train and mentor other Urologists. I believe it will the biggest contribution to Malawi and Africa. Personally, I together with my wife want to raise my kids in the best way possible. At the same time reach out to underprivileged children and unlock their potential.

What is your wish for the next generation of surgeons all around the world?

Listen to the patient and offer patient centred care. It is easy to get lost in technological advances which may not address the patient needs.

Which British dish/ custom/ show became your favourite while in the UK?

Fish and chips. 

How do you like to drink your tea?

Milk, one sugar.