About: Are you someone who’s passionate about global health, emergency medicine, or the idea of working in challenging environments across the world? Friends of MSF is the society for you! We’re a student-led society inspired by Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders) – one of the world’s leading humanitarian medical organisations. Our aim is to connect students with real-world issues faced by healthcare workers in conflict zones, refugee camps, natural disasters, and underserved communities. As a member, you’ll gain insight into crisis medicine, public health, global ethics, tropical diseases, and career pathways with MSF – all through interactive talks, simulation workshops, documentary nights, and more! We will also host engaging fundraisers, student-friendly socials, and collaborate with healthcare professionals who’ve worked directly with MSF to bring you first-hand stories from the field. Whether you're considering a future with MSF or just want to broaden your medical horizons, this is your chance to learn, lead, and be inspired — all while being a part of a supportive, like-minded community.
From our activities, the society aims to achieve the following:
Exclusive Talks with MSF and Global Health Experts: The society aims to inspire and educate future healthcare professionals by providing direct insights into the realities of humanitarian medicine and global health. Through talks and panel discussions with MSF staff and experienced practitioners, members will gain a deeper understanding of medical work in crisis zones, bridging the gap between classroom learning and the complex challenges faced in the field.
Raising Awareness: The society places a strong emphasis on broadening understanding of global health by exploring ethical, cultural, and social issues that are often overlooked. Through public events, campaigns, and discussions, we aim to engage both members and the wider community in meaningful conversations about humanitarian challenges and healthcare inequalities. By fostering awareness beyond the medical field, the society encourages a more holistic and socially conscious perspective, empowering individuals from all backgrounds to contribute to positive global change.
Building a Strong Community: The society is dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where individuals can connect with like-minded peers, share ideas, and collaborate on meaningful initiatives. By creating space for open dialogue and mutual support, the society encourages members to explore humanitarian values and global health issues together, building lasting connections that extend beyond university life. This sense of community not only strengthens individual growth but also empowers collective action in support of MSF’s mission.
Socials, Fundraising & Campaigning: Through socials, film nights, and creative fundraising events, the society encourages reflection, discussion, and meaningful engagement with the human stories behind global health statistics. These activities raise vital funds for MSF’s work while also promoting wellbeing, community bonding, and a stronger sense of solidarity. The society is equally committed to campaigning in support of Médecins Sans Frontières’ mission worldwide. Through student-led initiatives, we aim not only to contribute financially but also to spark dialogue about global health inequalities, humanitarian crises, and the importance of medical neutrality. By encouraging advocacy, volunteerism, and ethical action, our campaigns empower members to take an active role in global health, fostering a community that stands in solidarity with those affected by conflict, displacement, and limited access to healthcare.
Future with MSF: By taking part in leadership roles and event organisation, members gain valuable experience in communication, project management, and advocacy—skills that are not only beneficial for personal and professional growth but also essential for future careers in medicine, global health, and beyond. The society also offers opportunities to engage directly with MSF staff and volunteers, providing insight into the diverse career pathways within the organisation. Whether through informal discussions, networking, or dedicated career events, members are encouraged to explore how they can contribute to MSF’s mission in the future.
Skills in Practice: Through skills workshops and simulations, our aim is to develop members’ clinical confidence and adaptability, particularly for low-resource and emergency settings. These experiences are designed to complement the medical curriculum and introduce students to practical problem-solving in high-pressure environments.
The Friends of MSF Plymouth society strives to create informed, ethical, and globally minded individuals who are equipped to make meaningful contributions to health equity and humanitarian care. We welcome anyone with an interest in humanitarian aid, global health, and raising awareness of global inequalities. Join us and be part of the growing FoMSF community—together we have an exciting year of activities ahead! Your involvement and kindness will help us support this inspirational organisation and the people it serves worldwide.
To find out more about MSF visit: https://www.msf.org.uk/
***PLYMOUTH FRIENDS OF MSF LIBRARY***
Please follow the link below to browse books we recommend reading to learn more about medicine on the field!
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1FqblsDQZgU5FTn8qnIWfH-m-HABB30fHHRJ-3aigoIo/edit?usp=sharing