Marjan Farid

About Marjan Farid

Professor of Ophthalmology and Director of Cornea, Cataract, and Refractive Surgery at the Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, UC-Irvine, California, USA

What is your proudest professional achievement? 

Thankfully I have had many proud moments caring for my patients, but my proudest have always been in teaching corneal surgery. When I am able to effectively pass on my skills and knowledge to another surgeon, who will then be able to provide care for so many, I am the proudest.

Outside of ophthalmology, what makes you happy?

My family and faith keep me grounded and happy.

Why is it important to celebrate women in the field this way? 

We need more women becoming leaders in ophthalmology and medicine. Mentoring and supporting women to use their skills and their voice in leadership is our next challenge. I am glad we are celebrating women who have achieved this as it will inspire many more women to reach for the same.

What can be done to make the field more diverse? 

Thinking outside of the box is so important to finding diversity in talents and skills. Keeping an open mind and listening to what each person brings to the table will help us all realize the potential that each individual has and can contribute to our field.