An international Journey in Medicine and Photography

A GP and skin cancer specialist in Launceston, Dr Arya Shahrdami was drawn to Tasmania's rugged wilderness and endless photographic opportunities.

Dr Arya's International Move

Dr Arya Shahrdami's journey from Iran to Australia was driven by a combination of personal aspirations and socio-political circumstances. Originally from the Caspian Sea coast in northern Iran, Arya and his wife sought a life where they could enjoy greater social freedom and career opportunities. "The main thing, as you probably know, in Iran, is because of the issues with social freedom, freedom of the speech, and especially for women... that was probably the most important motive for us to move overseas," Arya shares.

With backgrounds in medicine and nursing, the couple initially considered Norway. However, they eventually chose Australia for its warmer climate and promising prospects. This decision marked the beginning of an incredible journey, filled with challenges and triumphs, as they navigated their new lives down under.

Overcoming Challenges: Language Barriers and Cultural Adaptation

Relocating to a new country is never easy, especially when faced with language barriers and cultural differences. Arya candidly spoke about this transition, saying, "I didn't speak English at that time. I didn't have the money either." Determined to succeed, he took 120 sessions of private English classes and immersed himself in English-language movies.

Despite these efforts, adapting to the Australian accent and colloquialisms took time. "It took me four and a half months, I remember. Exactly four and a half months for my ears to get tuned to the Australian accent," he recalls. Yet, his perseverance paid off, allowing him to thrive both personally and professionally in his new environment.

Blending Career and Artistic outlets in Launceston

After obtaining permanent residency, Arya and his family had the opportunity to choose where they wanted to settle. They chose Launceston, Tasmania, a decision influenced by his burgeoning passion for photography. "I saw a lot of photos on Instagram and social media. I loved the photos from Tassie," he explains.

In Launceston, Arya found the perfect balance between his medical career and his love for nature photography. Tasmania’s stunning landscapes provided an ideal backdrop for his creative pursuits, allowing him to capture the natural beauty that surrounded him.

Photography as a Stress Reliever and Creative Outlet

For Arya, photography became more than just a hobby; it was a vital stress reliever during the demanding GP Fellowship Program. "I started learning photography from YouTube," he mentions, highlighting how this creative outlet helped him cope with the pressures of his medical training.

His dedication to photography is evident in his work, which showcases a deep appreciation for nature's intricacies. As he puts it, "If I get interested in something, I get to the bottom of it. I'm a goal-oriented person."

Charity Work Through Photography

Arya’s commitment to his community extends beyond his medical practice. He leverages his photography skills to support charitable causes, creating calendars with his breathtaking images and donating the proceeds to charity. "That's the way of contributing to my community other than what I do work-wise," he notes.

This initiative not only raises funds for worthy causes but also shares the beauty of Tasmania’s landscapes with a broader audience, fostering a deeper connection between his work and his community.

Balancing Medicine and Photography: Dr Shahrdami's Life Philosophy

Maintaining a balance between his medical career and his passion for photography is essential for Arya. He emphasises the importance of setting goals and taking care of one’s health. "For me, work-life balance means doing enough photography, spending enough time with my wife, and also traveling," he explains.

Dr Arya Shahrdami’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, adaptability, and the pursuit of one’s passions. His story, as featured in the latest episode of the Medical Flyways 'More than Medicine' miniseries, offers valuable insights and inspiration for anyone navigating the complexities of life as a migrant doctor. Tune in to explore the multifaceted lives of doctors like Dr Arya Shahrdami, who continue to make significant contributions to their communities while pursuing their passions.