Layla Kasymov

I attribute my success to staying motivated and determined, even when balancing multiple responsibilities, and to having a strong support system that has consistently encouraged and challenged me to grow. I’ve always valued hands-on learning, and gaining real-world experience through internships played a major role in shaping my professional development. Those opportunities allowed me to apply what I was learning in the classroom, build practical skills, and gain confidence in professional settings early on. Combined with mentorship, feedback, and support from those around me, these experiences helped prepare me to navigate challenges, adapt quickly, and continue growing in my career.

The best career advice I’ve received is to always prioritize building genuine relationships and never underestimate the power of networking. Making connections, staying curious, and learning from others has opened doors I may not have anticipated. I was also encouraged early on not to let others define my capabilities or limit what I believe I can achieve. Trusting my skills, staying confident in my abilities, and advocating for myself have been just as important as gaining experience along the way.

My advice to young women entering this industry is to trust your voice and take up space early on. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, share ideas, or advocate for yourself — even when you’re still learning. Seek out mentors and build genuine relationships, but also remember that your perspective has value. Stay curious, be open to feedback, and don’t let self-doubt or outside opinions limit what you’re capable of. Confidence comes with experience, but believing in yourself is where it starts.

One of the biggest challenges and opportunities in healthcare communications right now is the pace at which the industry continues to evolve. Advancements in science, technology, regulations, and digital platforms require communicators to constantly adapt while still maintaining accuracy, trust, and compliance. While this level of change can be challenging, it also creates opportunities to rethink how information is shared, improve patient understanding, and develop more transparent, human-centered communication strategies. Staying flexible, informed, and proactive allows communicators to not only keep up with change, but to use it as a catalyst for innovation and stronger engagement.

In both my professional and personal life, I highly value integrity, empathy, open-mindedness, and continuous growth. I believe in being honest and transparent in all interactions, as trust is the foundation of meaningful relationships. Empathy allows me to understand and consider others’ perspectives, which helps me build strong connections and create solutions that truly make a difference. Open-mindedness is equally important—I strive to approach challenges with curiosity, welcome diverse ideas, and adapt to new ways of thinking. Finally, I prioritize continuous learning and growth, always challenging myself to improve and contribute my best.