Inspired to serve: Dr Biniyam Sirak

At 39 years of age, Dr Biniyam Sirak is one of the youngest surgeons at Hamlin’s Yirgalem Fistula Hospital. Inspired by Dr Catherine Hamlin‘s altruism, Biniyam is one of the most passionate members of Team Hamlin. Like so many talented Ethiopians, Biniyam was drawn to working with Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia because of its commitment to caring for the most vulnerable women suffering from obstetric fistula.

A career written in the stars

Biniyam’s connection to Hamlin is certainly unique: he was born at Desta Mender! At the time of Biniyam’s birth, the grounds where Desta Mender currently sits was the site of an orphanage. It was at this orphanage where Biniyam’s father worked, and consequently where he was born.

For the past 14 years, Biniyam has worked as a doctor, specialising in obstetrics, gynaecology and urogynaecology. His expertise has led him to teach gynaecology at a tertiary level. A talented medical professional, Biniyam was drawn to working with Hamlin due to its best-practice maternal care.

“Hamlin is a centre of excellence in its holistic and patient-centred care. It is a well-structured, ever-growing institution that grabs the interest of whoever wants to grow further,” says Biniyam.

Inspired to act

Beyond its excellent clinical reputation, the incredible work of Dr Catherine Hamlin has inspired Biniyam’s time as a fistula surgeon. Over 550 Ethiopians work for Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia, inspired by Catherine’s vision of an Ethiopia free of fistula by 2030.

The Hamlin Model of Care, which prioritises excellence in care and treating each patient with the dignity and respect she inherently deserves, shapes how Biniyam approaches his work treating fistula sufferers. “The selflessness of Drs Reg and Catherine Hamlin in establishing such a specialised centre for the marginalised women of my country remains the inspiration behind my choice to prioritise helping these women over my own personal comfort. There is nothing that I would love more than progressing further with Hamlin and continuing the Hamlins’ work. No words can explain my gratitude to both of them – I wish Dr Catherine a long and healthy life,” reflects Biniyam.

Catherine has inspired thousands across the world to join her efforts to eradicate fistula. Click here to learn how you can help prevent a fistula occurring in the first place.