Dr Manzura Davlatbekova was born in Khorog and grew up in the city of Dushanbe, Tajikistan. Dr Davlatbekova’s parents were teachers but she dreamed of a profession as a medical doctor. Since she was in school, her passion was to help and cure those who were sick. 

Dr Davlatbekova completed her clinical residency in psychiatry, narcology, and medical psychology. She did many years of practical work in a psychiatric hospital and has also taught psychiatry. Currently, she lives and works in Moscow, Russia, where she has been for the last 12 years, and is engaged in volunteering and community service.

During the pandemic, Dr Davlatbekova has had to take online training on infectious diseases and has found herself in the so-called “centre of infections,” where she carries out diagnosis and treatment of patients with Covid-19. She is involved in informing community members about the infection, providing in and outpatient care, mental support, monitoring patients at home, and conducting awareness sessions, mainly for those in high-risk groups, regarding medical treatment.

Dr Davlatbekova’s advice for the Jamat is to “Observe hygiene, wash your hands, and follow all the recommendations of doctors. Do not be afraid to find out information, do not be afraid to ask questions, and do not be afraid to ask for help. Take care of yourselves and your loved ones.”