PVM Graduate Student Invited to Speak at AORTIC 2017 International Conference in Rwanda

 

Odalys Torres-Luquis, a graduate student in the laboratory of Dr. Sulma Mohammed, associate professor of cancer biology, was invited to speak at AORTIC’s 11^th International Conference on Cancer in Africa (AORTIC 2017). A 2^nd year graduate student studying comparative pathobiology, Odalys shared a report about her unique experience as a meeting attendee. The conference was held in Kigali, Rwanda November 7-11.

AORTIC’s key objectives are to further research relating to cancers prevalent in Africa and to facilitate and support training initiatives in oncology for healthcare workers. Their research and training covers an array of issues related to cancer control in Africa such as: national cancer control programs; establishing, advocating, and training for cancer registration across the continent; and strengthening health care delivery systems, in line with African Union policy. AORTIC strives to unite the African continent in achieving its goal of a cancer-free Africa and seeks to make a positive impact throughout the region through collaboration with health ministries and global cancer organizations.

Comparative pathobiology graduate student Odalys Torres-Luquis works in the Lynn Hall laboratory of Dr. Sulma Mohammad, PVM associate professor of cancer biology.

As Odalys reflected on her recent trip, she warmly recalled experiencing the friendly ambiance and strong community that Kigali possesses. The vast majority of attendees were health professionals and well-known cancer researchers. Odalys felt honored to be invited to such a prestigious conference as a graduate student.

After presenting her research data, Odalys was able to tour the Breast Cancer Treatment Clinic projected to open soon. She was also given the opportunity to participate in a “This is Africa” tour where she learned a few Kinyarwanda words, spoke with locals, and visited the library, among other fun activities.

“I am forever grateful for this wonderful experience, having the opportunity to visit a new place, attend the AORTIC 2017 Conference, and be invited to speak about my research entitled, ‘Lymph circulating tumor cells and their lymph microenvironment’,” Odalys said. “This is an experience that I will never forget. I learned so much in a very short time, and met new people from many countries, backgrounds, and disciplines. This international experience has already started to change my professional life for the better.”