Umit shares his story as part of our 30th anniversary as a Royal College.
Tell us about a meaningful time in your career
I admitted a child in severe metabolic crisis. He was critically unwell and, although I initiated emergency treatment immediately, it was clear he needed transfer to a tertiary metabolic centre. His parents were anxious and initially reluctant to accept the referral. I spent time supporting them, explaining the risks and the importance of specialist care, and eventually they agreed.
A few years later, I saw this child again: healthy, smiling and full of life. He had been diagnosed with propionic acidaemia, and early intervention had clearly changed the course of his life. The family told me they had since welcomed another baby boy and had named him Ãœmit, the same as my name, meaning hope. Hearing this was deeply humbling; it reminded me how much trust families place in us during their most vulnerable moments.
This experience stays with me as a reminder of why I chose this profession: the importance of timely, compassionate care, the privilege of supporting families in their hardest moments, and the power of hope, both in my name and in my work.
What would you like the child health sector to look like in 30 years?
I hope it will transform into a truly preventative, equal and globally unified system.
I imagine a world where all diseases can be diagnosed before birth, even before they begin to manifest. A future where no child is born with faulty genes, because genetic conditions can be completely prevented or corrected.
I hope for a global system where every child, no matter where they are born, has access to exactly the same high-quality health resources under a shared international insurance framework. This would ensure that no child is disadvantaged due to geography, economy or circumstance.
And finally, I dream of a universal motto embraced by all nations:
If you are a child, you are the most precious treasure of the Earth
This vision reflects a future where science, equity and compassion come together to protect every child and give each one the chance to thrive.
What is one thing you will do, or advise new child health professionals, to get there?
I believe the most important step is to encourage deeper specialisation within paediatrics, while still keeping a strong holistic understanding of the child. New child health professionals should recognise that every effort made during childhood has a lifelong impact - on health, development, wellbeing and future potential.
By becoming highly skilled in specific areas of paediatrics, staying curious, and always placing the child’s long-term future at the centre of our decisions, we can move closer to a world where every child receives the best possible start in life.
What have you done to improve your wellness at work?
- Staying hydrated
I drink at least 1.5 litres of water daily and this helps me maintain focus, reduce fatigue and stay physically well during busy clinical days. It's a simple habit that has noticeably improved my energy levels and concentration.
- Smiling and greeting every colleague and patient
Starting interactions with a warm smile creates positivity, strengthens relationships and helps foster a supportive atmosphere. It also sets a calm tone during challenging moments and reminds me of the human side of clinical work.
- Swimming three times per week
Regular swimming is one of my most effective wellbeing strategies. It helps me clear my mind, reduce stress, improve sleep, and maintain physical fitness. I find that when I am consistent with this routine, my resilience at work significantly improves.
- Making others feel valued
I try to consciously acknowledge colleagues’ efforts, offer thanks, and give small bits of positive feedback. This strengthens team morale and contributes to a kinder workplace culture. Seeing someone smile because they feel appreciated gives me motivation and enhances my own wellbeing.
- Taking small breaks and spending brief moments with colleagues
Paediatrics can be demanding, and short pauses during shifts help me stay grounded. Even a five-minute coffee or a light conversation with a colleague can reduce stress and help reset the mind. These micro-breaks prevent burnout and maintain emotional balance.
These practices have helped me stay motivated, improve my mental clarity, and maintain a positive attitude even during intense clinical periods. They have strengthened my relationships with colleagues, improved teamwork, and helped me feel more fulfilled at work. Overall, they contribute directly to safer patient care and a more supportive workplace.
What are your hopes for the future?
I hope to continue building a career in an environment that values wellbeing, teamwork and continuous learning. In the future, I want to contribute to creating a workplace culture where colleagues feel supported, where small acts of kindness are valued, and where staff wellbeing is prioritised.
I believe that when we look after ourselves and each other, the quality of patient care naturally follows.
Earlier this year, we asked members of the paediatric community to share their stories as part of our 30th anniversary, celebrating millions of moments that mattered. Stories like these remind us of the impact you can have on children and families when you choose paediatrics.
If you'd like to share your story, we'd love to hear from you!