Yasmine is a member of the Patient and Public Network and a Cochrane US Year 4 trainee. Yasmine began by contributing to plain language summaries through Cochrane Engage and is now part of a global research project.
Tell us about yourself! Who are you and how did you get started in patient and public involvement in research?
My name is Yasmine, and I am a primary care physician and a teaching assistant in public health and community medicine from Egypt. In addition, I am a member of the Patient and Public Network, a Cochrane US Year 4 trainee, and a trainee at the Center for Optimal Aging at Marymount University, USA.
My journey into patient and public involvement began when I started contributing plain language summary (PLS) peer reviews through Cochrane Engage, where I offered feedback informed by both my medical background and my experience as a patient. This experience allowed me to appreciate how incorporating patient perspectives can strengthen the clarity, accessibility, and overall impact of research. I strongly value the role of patient and public networks in ensuring that research remains meaningful and responsive to real health needs
What motivated you to become part of Cochrane’s evidence community?
My participation in the Cochrane mentorship program was a major turning point; it not only encouraged me but also motivated me to continue contributing and volunteering in different ways as a way of giving back to Cochrane.
What also drew me in was Cochrane’s strong commitment to equity and inclusivity, alongside the supportive and welcoming nature of its community. This combination inspired me to remain engaged and expand my contributions.
Since joining Cochrane, what moment or project are you especially proud of?
I am especially proud of co-authoring a blog for World Evidence-Based Healthcare Day alongside my mentor and co-mentee, focusing on knowledge sharing through the Cochrane mentoring program. It was a rewarding experience to amplify collaborative learning and mentorship.
In addition, I had the opportunity to contribute to a scoping review through Cochrane Engage, which gave me valuable hands-on experience and further strengthened my commitment to evidence-based research.
Can you share a story where you or someone you know were involved in health research, and how that experience made a difference?
I am currently part of a collaborative research project called STAGE Africa (Scoping Review of the Evolution of Trial Design, Analysis, Governance, and Equity in Africa). This living scoping review brings together professionals from across the Global South to examine how clinical trial methodologies in Africa have evolved across all stages, while also identifying existing gaps and enablers to strengthen future trial implementation.
The work of STAGE Africa directly aligns with the WHO Global Action Plan for strengthening the clinical trial ecosystem in low- and middle-income countries, which highlights its importance and potential impact. Being part of such a meaningful project has shown me how international collaboration can drive equity and improve research practices.
What resource, learning opportunity, or mentor was most helpful when you started your journey in patient and public involvement?
The Cochrane mentorship program has been one of the most valuable learning opportunities for me. The guidance, encouragement, and constructive feedback I received from my mentor, Ana Beatriz Pizarro, who serves on the Cochrane Patient and Public Network Executive, have been instrumental in my growth both as a researcher and as an individual. Learning from someone so actively engaged in advancing patient and public involvement has been particularly inspiring, and I am deeply grateful for her generous and consistent support.
What advice or encouragement would you give to others thinking about getting involved?
My advice would be, go for it! Cochrane is a warm and welcoming community of professionals and leaders who are genuinely committed to collaboration and equity. Getting involved not only provides opportunities for learning and growth but also allows you to contribute meaningfully to improving health research and making evidence more accessible to everyone.
Getting involved not only provides opportunities for learning and growth but also allows you to contribute meaningfully to improving health research and making evidence more accessible to everyone.
Join Yasmine and 2,500 other patients and members of the public who are contributing to Cochrane and health evidence by signing up to our Network here or by getting involved with your local Cochrane Geographic Group.
