Alireza Aliakbar Golkar
I am Alireza Aliakbar Golkar, a second-year family medicine resident in Toronto Metropolitan University's inaugural cohort. Before coming to Canada, I practised independently in rural family medicine and emergency care in Iran. Returning to training has given me a different view of work I thought I knew well, and renewed my appreciation for colleagues who make time to teach, listen, and help others find their footing.I am seeking election outside the nominated slate because I believe this combination of prior practice, current resident leadership, and experience within a new medical school would be useful to the Board. I would like members to have the opportunity to consider that perspective as the College makes decisions about the future of our profession.
On Qeshm Island, I led a rural health facility serving a community and surrounding villages, with a team of 21. Alongside patient care, I coordinated staffing, supported public health initiatives, and worked with community partners. When resources were limited, a workable plan depended on understanding what the team could deliver and what patients could realistically access. Those responsibilities still shape how I think about organizational decisions.
At TMU, I serve on the Family Medicine Residency Program Committee and the School of Medicine's Education Council. I am also a PARO (Professional Association of Residents of Ontario) General Council representative and TMU Site Chair. Much of my contribution starts with conversations: gathering residents' experiences, identifying shared concerns, and bringing them forward in a form that colleagues can work with. I have also helped organize onboarding support for incoming residents, drawing on what our first cohort learned.
Being part of an inaugural program has shown me the energy a new school can bring, as well as the importance of reliable processes and relationships while it grows. With further expansion ahead, including York University's planned medical school opening in 2028, I would bring this firsthand experience to discussions about training capacity and preparation for community practice.
I would approach Board service with responsibility to members across Canada and at every stage of practice. I care about keeping comprehensive family medicine viable, reducing avoidable administrative work, and ensuring that the College's activities justify the time and resources members invest in them. I would ask how proposed changes affect clinicians, learners, and patients, and listen carefully where their experiences differ from mine.
I enjoy work that brings people together around a practical problem. I would welcome the opportunity to contribute that way of working to the Board, with careful preparation, openness to other views, and a commitment to following through.
Dr. Golkar’s CV.
