In this inspiring episode of Global Health Dialogues, Princess Dina Mired welcomes Dr. Navid Madani, senior scientist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School faculty, and founder of the SHE Center, a pioneering initiative empowering women and strengthening research capacity across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). Dr. Madani shares her extraordinary journey as a global health leader, scientist, and cancer patient, revealing how she transformed personal challenges—including a stage four ovarian cancer diagnosis—into a source of strength and advocacy. From groundbreaking HIV research on CD4 mimetic compounds to mentoring the next generation of female scientists, her story is one of courage, innovation, and compassion.
Key Highlights:
- Dr. Madani’s path to science and HIV research
- Development and impact of CD4 mimetic compounds for women
- Founding the SHE Center: three pillars of mentorship, exchange, and health capacity building
- Capacity-building programs in MENA: manuscript writing, professional communication, and research skills
- Mentorship as a ripple effect: empowering individuals to transform communities