Dr Sayed Ahmed, Australia’s first PhD in Pedorthics and a world leader in diabetic foot care, was honoured at the Sydney Harmony Lions Club Changeover Ceremony event held on Monday 18 August in Chippendale, on the outskirts of Sydney’s CBD.
The award celebrated Dr Ahmed’s ongoing contributions to diabetes awareness and community health through his work with Foot Balance Technology and in the field of pedorthics overall.
Pedorthics is the practice of assessing, designing, fabricating and modifying footwear and orthotic devices to support or accommodate conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower extremities.
It involves biomechanical analysis and the application of therapeutic footwear, custom orthoses and shoe modifications to enhance mobility, alleviate pain and prevent or manage foot-related pathologies.
Sayed Ahmed’s story is one of great inspiration.
Born and raised in a remote area of Bangladesh, he relocated to Australia in 2009 after completing his university degree.
His journey from humble beginnings to becoming a pioneering researcher and clinician exemplifies his resilience and dedication.
In February 2024, Dr Ahmed earned his PhD from Southern Cross University, focusing on innovative footwear and insole prescriptions designed to prevent diabetic foot ulcers.
Dr Sayed Ahmed after receiving his latest accolade.
His groundbreaking research incorporates advanced AI technologies and sets new standards in pedestrian healthcare.
Dr Ahmed’s career is distinguished by numerous accolades, both internationally as well as in Australia, while he is a much sought after guest speaker at health forums around the world.
As a proud Muslim academic and clinician, Dr Ahmed’s leadership extends into the community.
In late March, he chaired the 2nd Diabetes Awareness Forum in Western Sydney in collaboration with the Sydney Harmony Lions Club, gathering healthcare professionals and community members alike in the fight against diabetes.
Operating clinics in Castle Hill and Westmead, Dr Ahmed also supports high-risk foot clinics at several major hospitals and contributes to national standards development as part of the Foot Network Working Party.
The Sydney Harmony Lions Club does an outstanding job for the community.
Reflecting on his career and recent recognition, Dr Ahmed said, “I am humbled by the ongoing support from organisations like the Lions Club – they are so professional, so respectful and so obliging.”
“Australia has given me some incredible opportunities over the past 16 years to pursue my passion for healthcare and to give back to the community that has welcomed me so enthusiastically.”
Dr Ahmed has expressed interest in collaborating with the Lebanese Muslim Association to conduct a diabetes forum at Lakemba in the not too distant future.
Statistics released by the Western Sydney Diabetes Initiative have revealed that an alarming 1 in 3 adults in Western Sydney are at risk of type 2 diabetes.
Founded in 1917, the Lions Club is active in over 200 countries and has 1.4 million members worldwide.
It provides community service, focusing on vision, health, disaster relief and youth programs.
The 18 August awards night was attended by several hundred people and recognised the amazing work done by Dr Ahmed and a number of other prominent members of the Lions Club of Sydney Harmony.
Flashback to Saturday, 29 March when Dr Sayed Ahmed chaired a major diabetes awareness forum in Western Sydney.
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