Osler volunteer turned doctor-to-be: Meet Sahib Singh

Inspired by an early health journey, an interest in the sciences and a desire to serve his community as he has for years as an Osler volunteer, Sahib Singh Madahar shares his ongoing journey to become a physician.

Tell me about your time volunteering at Osler.

I first started volunteering at Etobicoke General when I was in grade 10 to learn more about the health care system and complete my mandatory volunteer hours. Eight years later, I continue to volunteer here. I was first trained in the front lobby, then became a volunteer team leader before transitioning into the screener role when the COVID-19 pandemic started.

It’s been a very rewarding and meaningful experience helping patients, staff and visitors, especially in the community I grew up in. I’ve gained a lot of memories during my time here and the Volunteer Services team is lovely and very supportive!

How did volunteering inspire and/or prepare you for medical school?

Volunteering deepened my appreciation for the humanistic and collaborative aspects of health care. I often found that simply being present, listening attentively, offering reassurance and helping patients navigate the system made a meaningful difference.

Engaging with patients and families from diverse backgrounds strengthened by adaptability, confidence, communication and critical-thinking skills.

What led you to apply to medical school?

My parents often spoke about challenges they experienced finding a specialist for my medical care when I was young. Fortunately, they found an exceptional paediatric hematologist at Etobicoke General Hospital (Dr. Robert Lau) who provided exceptional care and reassurance during a time of uncertainty. This left a lasting impact on my family and continues to shape how I understand compassionate, patient-centred care.

As well, I have always been drawn to science, particularly the interconnectedness of the human body and underlying health and disease. My motivation to pursue medicine is grounded in both my academic and research experiences, and the values instilled in me through my Sikh faith – lifelong learning, seva (selfless service), a sense of oneness and a commitment to social justice.

What happened when you found out you got in?

I found out I got into medical school at the University of Toronto while I was at the Gurudwara for morning prayers. After the prayers, I saw the email, stepped outside and video-called my parents right away. It was a really special moment we got to share together.

Just to add, my parents Manjinder Kaur and Sarbjit Singh have been a constant source of support throughout my journey. They have always gone above and beyond to encourage me to pursue my goals, and as the first in my family to complete a Master of Science degree and attend medical school, their support has truly been the foundation of everything I've been able to achieve.

What path do you hope to take when you become a physician?

My graduate research was in immunology and inflammation, which has drawn me towards paediatrics and internal medicine.

Many of the conditions encountered in both primary care and specialty settings are shaped by lifestyle factors, environmental influences and social determinants of health. This sparked my interest in lifestyle medicine and prevention, with a focus on delivering care that is culturally-informed and person-centred.

I hope to build a career that brings together patient care, education and research and to one day practice medicine at Osler as a full-circle moment.