The Queensland Medical Women’s Society (QMWS) is pleased to congratulate Manish Deeiki Kewage Dona on receiving the 2026 QMWS Professor Tess Cramond Memorial Bursary.
This bursary honours the legacy of Professor Tess Cramond, former President of the Australian Medical Association Queensland (AMA Qld), whose career ranged across her role in anaesthetics, CPR for Surf Life Savers and establishing multidisciplinary pain clinics, which continues to inspire generations of medical women. The bursary supports the recipient in attending a medical event or conference, fostering the leadership skills needed to address gender inequity in medicine.
A message from Manisha:
“I am Manisha, a second-year medical student at the University of Queensland and a first generation medical student. Before studying medicine, I worked in research focused on public health and maternal health, experiences that strengthened my commitment to improving outcomes for women and families.
My journey into medicine has also been shaped by my mother’s complex health needs. Seeing the difference that compassionate and thoughtful care can make inspired me to pursue a career where I can combine clinical practice with advocacy and meaningful community impact. I am particularly interested in women’s health and hope to explore Obstetrics and Gynaecology, reproductive health and maternal mental health as my training progresses.
I am deeply grateful to AMAQ and QMWS for this bursary. It will help me access professional development opportunities, broaden my exposure to different pathways in medicine and build confidence as I continue my studies.
My aspiration is to contribute to a more equitable healthcare system and to support other women entering medicine.”
QMWS congratulates Manisha on this achievement and wishes her continued success throughout her medical journey.
Discover more about the QMWS Bursary Program.
Submitted by
Evelyn Ma
Sponsorship & Bursaries Team Member
Queensland Medical Women’s Society (QMWS)
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