#ACEP2023: A Journey of Empowerment, Collaboration, and Celebration

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I have been an active participant at the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) annual conferences for several years. My involvement with ACEP International has truly amplified my sense of belonging to a vibrant global community of emergency medicine professionals. Serving as an ACEP International Ambassador in the Liaison category, representing Pakistan on the global ACEP stage, has been an incredibly rewarding experience.



This year's ACEP2023, held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, marked a personal milestone for me. Being honored with the ACEP2023 Ambassador Liaison Award for demonstrating dedication and reliability in my role was a proud moment. My efforts extended beyond the Aga Khan University, as I championed the case for Innovation, Creativity, and Entrepreneurship (I|C|E) in the field of emergency medicine, not only within my country but globally.


Among the many engaging sessions at the conference, I had the opportunity to present my impassioned pitch for low-cost and low-tech (low fidelity) I|C|E solutions for international emergency medicine during one of the Global Village sessions. The enthusiastic response and interest generated were truly encouraging. Given the positive response to my I|C|E centric pitch for global EM, on the sidelines of ACEP23, I met with current and past leaders/executive committee members of ACEP International to discuss global EM I|C|E topics of mutual interest seeking synergies for potential workshops for ACEP2024 and our Global Webinars comprising an I|C|E centric educational series accompanying our book Medjack (also see below). 

Well known to the Section of International EM, those influential global EM doctors included Andres Patino, Camilo Guitierrez, Barbra Villona, Elizabeth DeVos, and Alexandra Asrow. Furthermore, during the sectional committee/business meetings, I discussed I|C|E with EM icons like Paul Kivela. Such opportunities to discuss work one to one with potential mentors of that ilk remain the backbone of ACEP conferences.            

ACEP2023 was not all work and no play. Au contraire, true to its spirits (no pun intended), the ACEP Kickoff party, prohibition-themed in line with the vibrancy of Philadelphia, was an unforgettable experience. Witnessing the attendees' enthusiasm on the dance floor, especially during the 'Cha Cha' slide, brought a wave of energy, reminiscent of the spirited Zalsa sessions back at AKU!

Another highlight of ACEP2023 for me was the Medjack webinar featuring Dr. Zaid Altawil, a young ED physician in Massachusetts - the mind behind the Emergency Medicine Innovation Collaborative (EMIC). Our insightful discussion revolved around the potential of Hackathons as a strategic platform for fostering innovation in emergency medicine and beyond. 

Like its predecessors, ACEP2023 transcended the boundaries of a typical conference; it was a celebration of learning, teaching, networking, and revelry. Amidst the intellectually stimulating discussions, time flew by. My colleagues and I committed to ACEP International in small subcommittees to ensure an even more spectacular event in Vegas next year. 

Eager to play my part, I hope to spearhead an EM-centered design thinking workshop at ACEP2024. While they say, 'what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas,' I shall be a contrarian and ensure that our contributions are seen, heard and felt much beyond the city’s conference walls!


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