MIND Medical Initiative for Neurosurgical Discourse
Our Mission
Our Four Pillars of Impact
01
Demystifying Neurosurgery
We aim to make neurosurgery less intimidating by fostering open discussions about neurosurgical conditions, procedures, and innovations. By using clear, layman-friendly language, we seek to bridge the gap between complex medical concepts and the general public, empowering individuals with knowledge in an engaging and understandable way in order to make neurosurgery a more approachable field.
02
Enhancing Medical Student Interest
For medical students interested in pursuing neurosurgery, we provide resources, discussions, and insights to deepen their understanding of the field. Our goal is to boost their knowledge, inspire their passion, and prepare them for the challenges and opportunities they will encounter as residents and future neurosurgeons. For those pursuing other specialties, we emphasize the critical intersections between neurosurgery and other medical fields, highlighting the relevance of understanding the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system to all aspects of patient care.
03
Promoting Nervous System Health
For both the general public and medical students, we advocate for maintaining the health of the nervous system. Through discussions on prevention, wellness, and injury mitigation, we aim to equip individuals with practical strategies to support their neurological health and overall well-being.
04
Giving Back to the Community
We are dedicated to supporting the community by organizing fundraisers and volunteering efforts. We aim to contribute to causes related to neurosurgical care, access to treatment, and the promotion of the nervous system’s health. These efforts reflect our commitment to making a positive impact while fostering a deeper connection between medical professionals, students, and the community.
Our Story
MIND was founded in 2024 by Franciska Otaner, a medical student at McGill University, out of a deep interest in neurosurgery and a desire to share that passion with others while building a space for education and community impact. MIND began with a simple goal: to make neurosurgery more approachable and to encourage open, accessible conversations about the brain and nervous system. What started as an idea to connect people and share knowledge has since grown into a collaborative community focused on learning, awareness, and giving back.
Since its founding, MIND has organized multiple fundraisers and educational events and initiatives that spark curiosity, support students, and promote neurological health across the community. These efforts have brought together individuals from diverse backgrounds, medical students, professionals, and members of the public, united by a shared interest in understanding and supporting the nervous system.
In 2025, MIND was officially registered as a nonprofit organization in Quebec, marking an important milestone in its journey. Looking ahead, MIND continues to grow and expand its impact, creating meaningful opportunities to learn, engage, and contribute to a better understanding of neurosurgery and brain health.
Our Team
The brains behind MIND
MIND is led by a group of student volunteers who share a passion for neurosurgery, learning, and giving back to the community.
Each of us brings a different perspective, united by a shared goal: to make neurosurgery more approachable and to promote awareness of nervous system health.
Founder & President
Franciska Otaner
Medical Student 2027
Leads MIND’s overall vision, ensuring the team stays aligned with its mission while supporting each member’s initiatives and ensuring collaboration.
Chair of Media & Communications
Samia Cherkaoui
Medical Student 2028
Oversees MIND’s public presence and outreach through podcasts, newsletters, and other forms of digital storytelling.
Chair of Neurosurgical Education & Outreach
Sabryna Greeley
Medical Student 2028
Develops programs and workshops that make neurosurgery understandable and accessible to the general public and schools.
Chair of Medical Education
Alexandre Deslauriers
Medical Student 2029
Enhances medical student engagement in neurosurgery through mentorship, educational resources, and skill-building opportunities.
Chair of Events & Fundraising
Nicholas Katsis
Kinesiology Student
Plans and coordinates events and fundraisers that raise awareness and support for neurosurgery-related causes.
Chair of Community Impact
Margaryta Chabab
Medical Student 2028
Strengthens MIND’s community presence by organizing volunteer opportunities and outreach programs that promote brain health and well-being.
Chair of Creative Initiatives
Carl Korban
Medical Student 2028
Leads MIND’s creative initiatives by exploring the intersection of neuroscience, music, and the arts. Engages the community in unique ways, through creative projects and collaborations.
Chair of Research Developments
William Davalan
Incoming PGY-1 Neurosurgery
Encourages student involvement in neurosurgical research and highlights new developments through journals and research initiatives.
Chair of Global Health and Advocacy
Princesse Tsamo
Medical Student 2028
Leads initiatives that promote awareness of global neurosurgical challenges and advocate for equity and access to care.
