From Central Office
Member Spotlight Q&A
Arwa Z. Al-Riyami
What started your interest in Blood Transfusion?
My interest in transfusion medicine began while I was a medical student. I started my journey as a blood donor during medical school and joined a student group aimed at raising awareness of voluntary blood donation among our university students. My interest grew further during my residency at the University of British Columbia in Canada. As part of my training, I rotated through transfusion services at Vancouver General Hospital, BC Children’s & Women’s Hospital, and Canadian Blood Services. I developed a deep passion for the field, particularly for its blend of laboratory work and clinical practice. I was especially drawn to the immediate impact of transfusion medicine, seeing how timely blood transfusions can save lives and significantly improve the treatment of various medical conditions, including sickle cell disease and thalassemia, both of which are prevalent in Oman.
How did this interest develop and what are your main topics of interest now?
After returning from my residency, I committed myself to enhancing the blood bank services at my hospital and within my country. I joined several organizations and societies, including the International Society of Blood Transfusion (ISBT), to deepen my expertise and foster connections with peers and experts in the field. I was attending transfusion conferences annually. Over time, I focused my research and scholarly efforts on transfusion medicine, aiming to contribute local insights and perspectives to the global community. The learning curve was challenging yet immensely rewarding. Engaging with colleagues both regionally and internationally proved to be exceptionally beneficial.
The Sultan Qaboos Award University Award
What have been the most rewarding times in your career?
In 2018, I had the honor of chairing the newly established ISBT Young Professionals Council. My role involved advocating for young professionals within the society, setting a forward-looking action plan, and leading the council to achieve its goals. Collaborating with other enthusiastic council members to meet our objectives within a one-year term proved to be a highly rewarding challenge. Presenting our achievements to the board members at the ISBT Gothenburg congress and during the Assembly in 2019 was an unforgettable experience! This role was undoubtedly the most rewarding period for me, facilitating significant personal growth and allowing me to work closely with the ISBT office, including Judith Chapman, whose influence and drive were inspirational. It also provided invaluable opportunities to connect with many young professionals and to make new friendships with colleagues I now work closely with.
What role have you been involved in within ISBT, how has this impacted your life?
I have progressed from chairing the Young Professional Council to leading the Clinical Transfusion Working Party, which has been an immensely rewarding experience. Connecting with members from around the world has broadened my understanding of global transfusion practices and societal differences. I work hard to create opportunities for young professionals in the working party for personal and professional growth, continuing the efforts I began in my position in the council. Seeing the positive impact on these young members has been particularly fulfilling and rewarding.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, I joined the ISBT Convalescent Plasma Working Group. This involvement not only expanded my professional connections and shared knowledge but also deepened my understanding of global practices and challenges. Contributing to crucial research on the impact of COVID-19 on blood banks has been rewarding, providing an important scholarship resource for future generations and pandemics. I was also a member of the ISBT publication committee and was involved in updating the WHO book on the Clinical use of Blood and the ISBT Berly book, now known as Introduction to Blood Transfusion: from donor to recipient. I was also involved in developing the ISBT e-learning module in transfusion reactions, and led the efforts to translate it to Spanish and French languages. I have also led a series of projects on e-learning in transfusion medicine all of which fuel my passion for enhancing transfusion education and expanding access to freely available resources for learners worldwide. I also participate in the ISBT I TRY IT program as a mentor since 2018, and enjoyed mentoring 10 mentee over the past years in different projects. Finally, I am an editorial board member and a reviewer of Vox Sanguinis.
Who have been the most influential people in your career?
My mother has been a profound influence on me since my childhood. She exemplified what it means to be a hardworking woman, always dedicated to achieving her goals with a strong belief in herself and a commitment to excellence in her work. Her example not only instilled in me a passion for learning and self-development in general but also sparked my interest in research, and the importance of sharing experiences with others.
What are your personal goals in relation to ISBT?
I aim to continue contributing in ISBT's educational programs and international conferences and to foster collaboration within the society and the international transfusion community. In achieving these goals, I hope to contribute to the ISBT’s objectives of improving the safety and efficacy of blood transfusions across the globe. I am deeply committed to engaging in collaborative research and advancing transfusion education both locally and internationally. I also would like to increase the membership from the Eastern Mediterranean region.
With Judith Chapman and Eszter Herczenik at the AABB booth in 2018
With the Young Professional Council founders in Barcelona 2024
What energizes you most at work?
What energizes me most at work is my intrinsic motivation—my inner self. My passion for transfusion medicine and the desire to make a meaningful impact drives me daily. I thrive on the challenges in my field, the collaboration with peers, and the opportunity to mentor the next generation. Seeing the results of my work continuously renews my commitment and enthusiasm.
What do I do in my spare time?
I love to explore to beauty of my own country, and its nature, especially its beaches! I also love to travel and undertake any opportunity to explore the world and learn about other cultures and communities.
On Oman TV
Do you have a hidden talent?
I love floral arrangement and horseback riding 😊
Finally, what do you wish to add, or what would you like to say to our Transfusion Today readers?
Thank you for giving me this opportunity to be part of this society and to share a bit about myself! I look forward to meeting everyone at future ISBT congresses and other events, and to make new friends!
