BAPIO and the BAPIO Young Doctors Forum are proud to announce the resounding success of the National Merit Conference 2025, held in Bristol on 10 May 2025. Bringing together aspiring doctors, eminent leaders, and healthcare innovators, this event was a testament to our shared vision: transforming the medical training landscape to be inclusive, forward-thinking, and globally responsive. With over 80 participants from across the UK, the conference inspired dialogue, fostered leadership, and nurtured the next generation of medical professionals.
Professor Parag Singhal and Dr Tim Whittlestone delivering the opening / keynote address, providing compelling insights on the evolving role of international medical graduates, setting the tone for a day filled with purpose and vision. Other topics discussed during the day included critical issues such as complaints management (Dr Joydeep Grover), medical leadership (Prof Geeta Menon), rising competition ratios in training (panellists Dr Ananthakrishnan Raghuram, Dr Huzaifa Adamali, and Dr Zoe Jones) and efficient ways of working on a portfolio as a medical student (Dr. Raj Maan).
The conference programme including workshops on Surgical Skills (Hands-on experience in suturing techniques), Publication & Research (a practical guide to academic publishing led by Dr Indranil Chakravorty and the BIHR team) and Challenging Behaviours & Discrimination (a session by GMC’s Mr. Chris Lawlor addressing workplace equity). Following this, Dr Evelyn Mensah’s moving talk on inclusivity underscored the importance of diversity in medical education and patient care. There was also a poster and oral presentation competition where over 40 abstracts were showcased by future healthcare leaders, fostering dialogue and recognition of innovation in practice. The conference closed with an awards ceremony where BAPIO YDF was proud to recognise excellence among delegates through our prize distribution ceremony, celebrating research and professionalism.
This event would not have been possible without the event’s sponsors, General Medical Council (GMC) and Medical Defence Shield (MDS), the incredible support of the North Bristol Learning and Research Centre and Zaiqa Catering.
Looking forward, this conference was more than just a one-day event — it was a spark. A spark for change, for leadership, and for creating a future in healthcare where every trainee doctor has the opportunity to thrive. The BAPIO YDF team is immensely grateful for the energy, ideas, and unity shown at the conference. The event was a reminder that together, through collaboration, cultural awareness, and commitment, we can shape a healthcare system that is inclusive, equitable, and inspiring.
Key Takeaway Messages
Keynote Address: The Future of International Medical Graduates
Embrace change and advocate for equitable pathways to training and career progression.
Complaints and Complaint Management
Early understanding of complaint processes can empower young doctors to protect themselves and their patients.
Being a Medical Leader and Living the Dream
Leadership begins with self-awareness and the courage to lead from where you are
Efficient Portfolio Development
Consistency and reflective practice are key to a strong portfolio that truly tells your story
Oral and Poster Presentations
Sharing your research is as vital as conducting it—each voice adds to the future of medicine
Workshops
Hands-on skills, critical thinking, and research literacy are essential complements to clinical training
Panel on Training Jobs
A strategic approach and adaptability are crucial to navigating competitive training pathways
Inclusivity in Healthcare
Inclusivity isn’t optional, it’s fundamental to quality healthcare and effective medical education.
For queries or opportunities: admin@bapio.co.uk or bapiostudents@gmail.com
