“Influenced by several relatives who were excellent doctors, I developed a passion for medicine, which led me to pursue my MBBS degree at Mumbai University. After completing my residency in Internal Medicine in New York, I settled in Massachusetts, where I've dedicated the past two decades to serving as a primary care physician.” Today’s woman dreamer, Dr. Sonali Khond is a dedicated primary care physician and is currently the President of the Indian Medical Association of New England. In her Women Who Win interview, she reflects on her journey leading IMANE, her passion for music and dance and how she navigates physician burnout! Enjoy!

1. Tell us your story. You are the president of the Indian Medical Association of New England, and have had extensive experience as a physician. Tell us more about where you grew up and what inspired you to be a physician? 

I was born and raised in Mumbai in a middle-class family. At a very early age, I came to a profound understanding that financial independence is key to earning respect for women. This realization fueled my focus on studies, aiming for a successful career. Influenced by several relatives who were excellent doctors, I developed a passion for medicine, which led me to pursue my MBBS degree at Mumbai University. After completing my residency in Internal Medicine in New York, I settled in Massachusetts, where I've dedicated the past two decades to serving as a primary care physician.

2. You recently held a great CME for IMANE doctors. How has your journey as president been so far, and what is your vision for IMANE?

I joined the Indian Medical Association of New England in 2019 and served on the executive committee for the past few years. When offered the role of president, I initially hesitated, but thanks to the support and encouragement from Dr. Manju Sheth and Dr. Deepa Jhaveri, I gained the confidence to accept the position. Their mentorship is a prime example of women empowerment in action.

I am so glad that I took up the role and have had an amazing year so far, thanks to the help of my dynamic Executive committee team. We have collaborated with local non-profit organizations like IAGB to host community events, organized cardio class for members and community. As a non-profit organization we have contributed in charity to some local groups. We thank UAINE group for recognizing me as President and our IMANE women leaders on Women's Day. I thank Breathing Secrets a local group helps with mental health for awarding me "Inspiring health leader 2024" We organized educational CME event for doctors in May at MMS Waltham which was a success event. We are looking forward for a few more events this year including our Gala on 23rd November. We want to grow membership and continue educational and community activities.

3. You are quite the multi-faceted woman - you were in a beauty pageant and are a talented dancer. Tell us more about these experiences, and what excites you about dance

Since childhood, I've thrived on extracurricular activities, encouraged by our school's wholehearted support. I participated in music and dances events and also played field hockey and table tennis. However, as family life and children became my focus, my passions took a backseat. Yet, in recent years, I've reignited those desires, rejoining activities and even attending stress-relieving Zumba and Zumba toning classes. Embracing my Indian roots, I've embraced Bollywood dance and music, leading me to participate in a beauty pageant where I was crowned Mrs. Elite 2023.

4. Work life balance is continuing to be challenging for women physicians. How do you find your work life balance

It's very common to see physician burnout. We have to take care of our health as health is wealth. I enjoy my work and love my patients. I work as primary care physician and weekdays are always busy and stressful, but I try to make sure I have some time for myself to exercise for good mental and physical health. It's important to have good family time and vacations to recharge. Gender equality starts at home with a supportive family, where everyone pitches in and works as a team. My two sons, who are Eagle Scouts, are independent and help with many household chores.

5. As the platform for women dreamers, what is your next big dream?

I have lived in this wonderful community in MA for about 20 years. I plan to continue support IMANE and do community service as a doctor to help other groups as well.