Egyptian-Australian doctor named 2022's Young Australian of the Year
An Egyptian-Australian was on Tuesday named 2022’s Young Australian of the Year for his work creating a mobile medical service for homeless people.
Dr. Daniel Nour, 26, was announced as winner of the prestigious award by Australia’s Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, after he launched the “Street Side Medics” not-for-profit medical service in New South Wales two years ago.
With 145 volunteers and four clinics across the Australian state, the service provides medical assistance to homeless people.
Street Side Medics, which is free of charge to patients, has so far come to the aid of an estimated 300 people, treating illnesses such as thyroid disorders and hepatitis C, that might otherwise not have been detected.
The main mobile clinic van is easily recognisable and comes equipped with everything the team needs to give patients adequate care, from blood tests and vaccinations, to an electrocardiography and ultrasound machine.
We are so proud to announce that our Founder Dr. Daniel Nour has been nominated as a young Australian of the year for NSW.
— Street Side Medics (@StreetSideMed) November 3, 2021
It is great to have the amazing work he has achieved be highlighted and recognized in this way. #ausoftheyearawards https://t.co/cnGj4yX3Od pic.twitter.com/X62OiaGD9W
Nour, who also works full-time at Royal North Shore Hospital, said in his acceptance speech: “As we sit here tonight there are over 116 thousand Australians who are experiencing homelessness.
“As a result of that their health outcomes are significantly worse, and we can do something about it.”
Nour said the award meant the world to him and filled him with pride to be Australian.
He also thanked the patients that trusted his service enough to give them care and said he hopes to take Street Side Medics nationwide within the next 12 months.
Nabila Makram, the Egyptian Minister of Immigration & Expatriate Affairs, also congratulated Dr. Nour's services and praised the efforts of Egyptian youth abroad.