On Thursday 27th March, Joshua Mellor, a second year student at KMMS, presented his abstract at the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) Conference in Glasgow, where he was named one of two finalists for the Tony Jackson Memorial Prize 2025. This award recognises medical students and foundation doctors in the UK and the Republic of Ireland for their outstanding personal reflections on any aspect of paediatrics, whether experienced in the UK or internationally.
Reflecting on the conference, Joshua said, “It was a fantastic experience as it marked my first time being in Glasgow and at a medical conference, where I had no idea what to expect. Having the opportunity to present my piece was a privilege, especially to such a diverse audience of professionals in the field of paediatrics. I also appreciated listening to their insights. As my presentation was based on a very personal volunteering experience, it felt gratifying to see how that time still plays a vital role in my career as a medical student.”
Joshua’s presentation, titled ‘From Silence to Story: What Listening Taught Me,’ explored the barriers he observed in a paediatric setting, along with his reflections and recommendations for advocating for young children. He shared the inspiration behind his abstract: “Before my studies, I volunteered as a humanitarian worker in Germany for two years during the height of the refugee crisis. This experience exposed me to some incredible individuals who had endured great hardship.” He continued, “The focus of my abstract was on child trauma and how a conversation with a refugee child made me realise the importance of giving children a platform to share their voices. This insight translates into clinical practice and highlights the value of listening to children and understanding their stories in care.”
The prize is supported by a generous bequest from Dr Tony Jackson, a former consultant paediatrician at the Royal London Hospital and the Queen Elizabeth Hospital for Children. Upon learning that he had made it as a finalist, Joshua said, “When I first received the email informing me that I was a finalist in the Tony Jackson Memorial International Prize competition, I couldn’t quite believe it. Given that the competition was open to medical students and foundation-year doctors, I thought being so early in my medical journey would reduce my chances of being selected. However, having my piece chosen showed me that my enthusiasm for pursuing a career in paediatrics is what is most important to me, and I am grateful that my passion was recognised.”
In his presentation, he dedicated his work ‘To the brave children who trust us with their voices – and those still waiting to be heard.’ View Joshua’s presentation here.
Huge congratulations to Joshua from the KMMS community!
(Main image: Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) Conference)