Welcome to SAMA Chapters
SAMA chapters are established to enhance our local presence and strengthen our network. They serve as a vital link between the organization and local communities, fostering engagement, collaboration, and advancing SAMA’s values.
The purpose of these chapters is to empower affiliates in diverse regions to make meaningful contributions to SAMA’s humanitarian, educational, and community-focused initiatives.
Chapters

Chicago
Focus Area: In-person fundraising
Representative: Dr. Salaheldin Abusin
Dr. Salaheldin Abusin is a dedicated Cardiologist with strong ties to Chicago, where he is affiliated with Rush University Medical Center and Rush Oak Park Hospital. He completed his residency in Internal Medicine at John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital of Cook County from 2007 to 2010, followed by a fellowship in Cardiovascular Disease at the same institution from 2010 to 2013.
Dr. Abusin has a distinguished leadership background, having served as the Past President, Treasurer and Secretary General of SAMA. Currently, he contributes to the association’s mission as an advisory board member.

Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
Focus Area: Raise Awareness about the humanitarian crisis in Sudan, and Develop collaboration in Knowledge, Learning and Research
Representative: Ranjana Ramesh
Ranjana Ramesh is a second-year student at Brown University in the Program in Liberal Medical Education, pursuing degrees in Computational Biology and contemplative studies, focusing on holistic medical care. Passionate about global health, empathetic medicine, computer science, and writing, Ranjana aspires to become a surgeon serving underprivileged communities in the U.S. and globally. Since 2019, she has volunteered for SAMA with her brother, Navin, and currently supports clinical research in neurosurgery and global health. She writes for Spirit Magazine and university publications, mentors students, and serves on SAMA’s Advisory Board, advocating for initiatives like Project ECHO.

DMV
Focus Area: In-person Fundraising and Events
Representative: Dr. Nahla Gadalla
Dr. Nahla Gadalla, PhD, is an accomplished entrepreneur and expert in infectious diseases with over a decade of experience in program development, management, and scientific writing. Holding a PhD in Molecular Biology of Infectious Diseases from LSHTM, she has numerous publications and awards to her name. Dr. Gadalla’s work has contributed significantly to the field, demonstrating her commitment to advancing public health. Currently, she serves as President of the Sudanese American Medical Association (SAMA), furthering its mission and initiatives.
Volunteer or Form a SAMA Chapter
SAMA is looking for passionate individuals to join our mission. Whether you want to volunteer with your local chapter or take the lead in forming a new one as a Chapter Representative, there’s a place for you to make a difference.
To Form a Chapter
Interested in establishing a SAMA chapter in your region? Contact admin@sama-sd.org for guidance and support.‘
To volunteer
Join the SAMA Volunteering Program and make a meaningful difference.
If you are under 18, we invite you to apply to our Youth Ambassadors Program.
If you are 18 years or older, our Emerging Leaders Program offers opportunities to grow as a leader while supporting vital humanitarian work.
Be part of a generation committed to compassion, leadership, and positive change.