Earlier this month we hosted the 2025 Friends of David Nott Foundation (FDNF) Annual Conference at the University of Dundee – a chance to celebrate our worldwide network of future humanitarian leaders who are committed to making a difference in the face of conflict.

FDNF student societies are run by dedicated committees who plan events, fundraise and promote the David Nott Foundation’s mission on campus. Day to day, this means everything from managing social media and finances to collaborating with other societies and engaging new members. Their work builds leadership skills, strengthens humanitarian awareness and inspires a new generation to take action in times of crisis.

We had students and surgeons from Cork to Cambridge, all coming together in Dundee to connect, exchange ideas and get hands-on with life saving surgical skills. We spoke to some of the students about what FDNF means to them – and how it’s shaping their personal and professional journey.

What inspired you to get involved with FDNF? 

Antony, President, University of Buckingham: “When I heard about the work that the DNF does, I was intrigued and hoped to participate in any small way. I saw the opportunity to start an FDNF society and I took it.”

Lesly, FDNF Member, University of Buckingham: “I’ve always wanted to be involved in humanitarian work as giving to those in need is what I believe true purpose is. Joining FDNF is a meaningful way to take that first step.”

Jessica, Chairperson, University College Cork: “We are so privileged to have the education and resources we do. I want to use that to help those who are facing such hardship in adverse conditions. The charity is way bigger than ourselves and helps so many people – directly and indirectly – as education is passed down.”

What part of DNF’s mission resonates with you the most?

Khansa, President, University of Central Lancashire: “The Foundation’s passion for and commitment to training doctors in hostile environments deeply resonates with me. I believe education is a transformative tool, equipping doctors with the knowledge and resilience to save lives in the most difficult conditions.”

Nadezhda, President, University of Manchester: “FDNF inspires me to be someone who goes above and beyond to make things happen. It has taught me to focus on what can actually make a difference in the world, and to put effort where help is most needed.”

Has a specific conversation or moment stuck with you during your FDNF journey?

Khansa, President, University of Central Lancashire: “Yes. Professor Nott’s talk during the conference titled Reflections of a Frontline Doctor has stayed with me. Hearing about the missions he’s undertaken, the challenges faced, the importance of risk assessment and the resilience required as a war surgeon was deeply moving. His emphasis on mastering multiple surgical specialties to manage mass casualties in war zones is something I’ll never forget.”

How has FDNF shaped your vision of the kind of doctor – or person – you want to be?

Khansa, President, University of Central Lancashire: “As Professor Nott mentioned in his talk, I aim to be a resilient, compassionate, competent and altruistic doctor – a source of relief for patients, a guide for fellow colleagues and a beacon of hope in times of crisis.”

Lois, Publicity Officer, University of Warwick: “I want to be open-minded and make people feel safe in uneasy situations.”

Antony, President, University of Buckingham: “Being part of FDNF has made me realise that as future doctors, we are all part of something bigger. It has taught me to take risks, be brave and to keep pushing for what you believe in.”

Finally, please describe your FDNF experience in three words

Bethany, Events Organiser, Warwick University: “Wow, humbling, exciting.”

Manaal, President, University of Nottingham: “Dedication, bravery, healing.”

Nadezhda, President, University of Manchester: “Inspiration through connection.”

Our team left the conference feeling inspired by the courage and commitment of our student network. We look forward to working hard to support them as they grow into doctors, leaders and humanitarians who bring hope where it’s needed most.