Meet Dr Kazmi: Dermatologist, Educator, Comedian
In the world of medicine, it's not uncommon to find doctors with a singular focus on their specialism. However, Dr Ahmed Kazmi is a refreshing departure from this norm.
Based in Melbourne, Dr Kazmi’s multifaceted career encompasses his roles as a specialist dermatologist, a senior clinical lecturer, and a comedian. “I actually think doctors and healthcare workers having interests or passions outside of medicine is not unusual. I think it's actually the standard,” he says.
Dr Kazmi’s journey into dermatology began after rigorous training in general practice in the UK, where he grew up. His particular clinical interest in alopecia and dedication to medical education sets him apart in the medical community. But it’s his foray into stand-up comedy and cabaret that truly highlights his ability to juggle multiple roles.
Breaking the Mold: Embracing Passions Outside Medicine
For Dr Kazmi, the decision to pursue interests outside of medicine was both strategic and driven by a desire for personal fulfilment. “What sets me aside is I just ditched that mindset ages ago,” he reflects on the traditional expectations placed on doctors. This mindset allowed him to explore and embrace his passion for comedy, which had always been a part of him despite growing up in a conservative Pakistani household where such interests were seen as superfluous.
In fact, his entry into stand-up comedy was somewhat serendipitous. Following the passing of his father, Dr Kazmi sought a break from medicine and gravitated towards the performing arts. “I decided I needed a little bit of a break from medicine...I was living in Perth at the time. There was the Fringe Festival. I'd seen a few shows and many of them had been terrible,” he recalls. This provided the perfect opportunity for him to try his hand at comedy, leading to the creation of his show, "Doctor in the House: What Your Doctor Really Thinks."
The Power of Performance and Healing Through Comedy
Comedy, for Dr Kazmi, is not just about making people laugh. It’s a therapeutic exchange that allows him to connect with audiences on a deeper level. “People come because they wish to have a fun evening. I present something. I always try and weave in something serious in there, some reflections,” he explains.
His shows often touch on serious subjects such as bereavement, Islamophobia, and homophobia, providing a platform for audiences to engage with these issues through the lens of humour. This approach not only entertains but also fosters understanding and empathy, making his performances impactful and memorable.
Navigating Cultural Identity: A Proud Pakistani Man Abroad
Dr Kazmi’s cultural identity plays a significant role in his life and work. “Culturally, he is a proud Pakistani man,” remarks Srishti Dutta during their conversation. Despite being born in Canada and raised in England, Dr Kazmi's connection to his Pakistani heritage remains strong. “As a sense of who I am my ancestry, my cultural heritage, who I see myself as a person, the first thing I would say is that I'm a Punjabi Pakistani man,” he asserts.
This deep sense of cultural identity is something he actively maintains and cherishes. He speaks Urdu, encourages his children to learn the language, and incorporates cultural elements into his performances. “I'm going to bring my masala chai flavour to the table,” he jokingly tells his producers when discussing his upcoming role as a panelist on Channel 7's House of Wellness.
Balancing Professional and Personal Life
Balancing a demanding medical career with personal passions and family life is no small feat. Dr Kazmi candidly shares the challenges he faces, particularly as a father to two young children. “Now I'm trying to think, oh, what do I do? Do I make my own clinic where I'm the one receiving the service fee instead of paying the service fee?” he ponders, reflecting on the financial and time constraints of his profession.
Yet, he remains optimistic and resilient, drawing strength from his diverse interests and the support of his community. “Well doctors make well patients. If you are not fed and rested and happy and well, you know, you are not going to be able to afford good care for your patients,” he wisely notes.
Future Aspirations: What Lies Ahead for Dr Kazmi
Looking ahead, Dr Kazmi continues to explore new opportunities and challenges. His upcoming debut as a doctor panelist on Channel 7's House of Wellness represents another exciting chapter in his multifaceted career. “It's a totally different thing. Again, it's another learning curve. It's a different experience,” he says, eager to bring his unique perspective to a broader audience.
Ultimately, Dr Kazmi's story is a testament to the power of embracing one's passions and staying true to one's identity. Whether on stage, in the clinic, or on television, he continues to inspire and make a difference, proving that a life beyond medicine is not only possible but also profoundly enriching.
Listen now.
Sep 21
Jul 28
Sep 27
