Dr. Vasu Kamlesh-Singh is not only a talented and virtuous surgeon, but also an international model, humanitarian activist, mental health advisor, and a symbol of cultural fusion. In every role, he is remembered as a role model for living for the community, living with dedication, and living a meaningful life.
A doctor not confined by the title
Born in Mauritius, Dr. Vasu Kamlesh-Singh chose China as the place to pursue his medical training. He earned his MBBS degree and later completed his postgraduate MMed program in surgery at Nanjing University, one of China’s most prestigious institutions. Throughout his studies, he participated in numerous research projects and served as the lead author of dozens of international scientific papers published in journals such as BMC Surgery, Medicine (Baltimore), and the Saudi Journal of Gastroenterology.
Beyond his professional efforts, he also embodies a noble spirit of volunteerism in China. He has performed surgeries free of charge for children with congenital deformities as part of an international medical collaboration between China, the United States, and Europe. He has also provided psychological support to survivors of the Nanjing Massacre, spent Christmas with orphans, and conducted hygiene education programs for elementary school students.
Humanizing a professional mission
Upon returning to Mauritius, Dr. Vasu continued to dedicate himself and spread humanitarian values through practical initiatives. He joined JCI City Plus to promote public health education, guiding people on how to prevent COVID-19 and Monkeypox in the Creole language. Additionally, he organized tree planting activities and hosted Zumba, jujitsu, and yoga sessions to help maintain both physical and mental well-being.
Beyond his role in healthcare, he is also a pioneer in breaking social stereotypes. He mentors medical students, supports educational recovery after the MV Wakashio oil spill disaster, and raises awareness about mental health, gender, and equality through events organized by JCI Curepipe.
From the runway to a mission of spreading
With the title of Mister Friendship Africa 2024, Dr. Vasu did not compete merely for recognition. He sees the fashion industry as a powerful communication platform to promote compassion. In 2022, he co-organized the Diwali Show to raise funds for a child with leukemia. On the runway, he not only walked with professionalism but also performed various art forms, proving that the catwalk can also serve as a stage for humanity.
He personally trained Miss Universe Mauritius 2016 in physical fitness, playing a behind-the-scenes role in helping the country make its mark at Miss Universe. He has since become a nationally recognized figure in the Mauritian fashion scene, collaborating with a wide range of renowned brands such as CitySport, Quiksilver, La Mia Luce, Note Cosmétique, and MyFit360.
Symbol of cultural exchange and international cooperation
Dr. Vasu Kamlesh-Singh is a polyglot fluent in seven languages and has lived and worked in China, India, and Mauritius. He was an honorary guest at an event attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and was honored by the Chinese Embassy during the celebration of the 50th anniversary of China–Mauritius diplomatic friendship.
He also translated French comic books into Chinese for children as part of an educational project in Shanghai. In addition, he contributed to the EDYCS Epilepsy Health Service Centre to break down the stigma surrounding epilepsy and to promote the concept of equitable healthcare. He serves as a profound bridge between medicine, art, culture, and the international community.
Dr. Vasu Kamlesh-Singh’s journey is the clearest proof that with a heart devoted to service and a spirit that dares to go beyond limits, we can truly change the world in our own way. He is a compassionate warrior facing many masks, but behind them all is one constant spirit: to live by giving and inspiring.
Catherine | Cameron Truong
