Poole man named finalist in National dentist awards

Riaz Sharif works at MyDentist as a qualified dentist surgeon based in Poole.

Earlier this year, Riaz was announced as a finalist for Young Dentist of the Year.

The Dentistry Awards 2024 celebrates excellence in dental practice, recognising dental professionals for their achievements and advancements.

This event highlights talent, innovation, and dedication in dentistry.

Nominees are chosen for their exceptional skills, patient care, and community contributions.

The awards not only honour individual and team accomplishments but also inspire continued excellence in oral health care.

Speaking on the nomination, Riaz said: “It felt amazing to find out the good news. At first, it came as a shock as I didn’t expect to even be recognised as a finalist and to be recognised for my work over the years.

“I qualified as a dentist in 2021 as a dentist having studied in Budapest and Slovakia and work as a private dentist at 'mydentist' in Poole.

“I received my first degree at the university of Birmingham where I studied biomedical sciences and went on to study dentistry abroad.

“The journey itself was tough and challenging so receiving a finalist position this year at the 2024 dentistry awards is a huge accomplishment for me.

Speaking on his journey before Poole, Riaz added: “I was born In Hackney in east London where I lived with different foster families.

“I moved out of London at 18 to Birmingham university where I spent several years studying for my first degree, I then moved abroad to Budapest and Slovakia where I studied dentistry and later chose Dorset / Poole as my final destination.

“I love it here and hopefully would love to set up my own clinic in the area in the near future.”

He added: “I’d like to say thank you to the clinical judges who selected me amongst many in the Southwest and Wales, I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity and look forward to the ceremony.”

The award ceremony takes place on September 13 at The Athena in Leicester.