From Outsider to Insider: Mukta Panda, MD’s Journey to Belonging and Paying it Forward

08/11/2023 37 min Temporada 1 Episodio 4
From Outsider to Insider: Mukta Panda, MD’s Journey to Belonging and Paying it Forward

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Episode Synopsis

In a moving episode of Represented, Dr. Mukta Panda shares her personal and professional evolution, from grappling with her identity as an international medical graduate in America to becoming a trailblazer for inclusivity in the medical community. Her candid recount of overcoming self-doubt and discrimination is a powerful narrative of transformation and empowerment.The Outsider ExperienceDr. Panda's journey began with her transition from India to America, where the initial excitement was overshadowed by the creeping onset of imposter syndrome. This led to a duality in her life, with the "true Mukta" concealed behind a façade crafted to gain acceptance in a foreign professional landscape.A Breakthrough in Self-AcceptanceThe pivotal moment for Dr. Panda was her embrace of her unique identity, which bridged her ancestral heritage and her present cultural environment. This epiphany propelled her to infuse her work with authenticity, thereby enriching her interactions and contributions to the medical field.Leveraging Influence for InclusivityUpon recognizing her capacity to enact change, Dr. Panda turned feelings of tokenization into empowerment, using her roles in various committees to advocate for more inclusive policies and practices within the healthcare system.Empowerment and BelongingDr. Panda emphasizes the importance of co-creating a sense of belonging in the workplace. She believes in empowering oneself to foster a community where everyone supports one another through empathy and mentorship, creating a culture where all can thrive.Imparting WisdomFor those embarking on their medical careers, Dr. Panda offers sage advice on self-belief and the importance of finding a support system that reinforces this conviction. She underscores the significance of owning one's story to catalyze change and inspire inclusivity.The episode concludes with Dr. Panda's inspiring call to action for each individual to transform their challenges into opportunities to make meaningful contributions to a more inclusive world. Her journey and insights offer a blueprint for young physicians and seasoned practitioners alike to lead with authenticity and compassion.If you’re enjoying our conversations, don’t forget to hit ‘Subscribe’ on Spotify, Apple Music, or Google Play to never miss an episode. But that’s not all—make sure to visit our website at represented.health for episode-specific tips on creating impactful change in your community, sourced directly from our program’s esteemed guests. Let’s stay engaged, stay informed, and continue making a meaningful difference together. Thanks for listening!