History of the Emirates Chiropractic Association (ECA)

The Emirates Chiropractic Association has a fascinating journey that began in 2008 when a group of chiropractors — Dr. Travis Mitchell, Dr. Ahmed Fares, Dr. Salim Khamissa, Dr. Tarik Tawil, Dr. Gary Fitzgerald, and Dr. Mohamad Raslan — met at Central Perk Coffee Shop in Dubai and decided to establish the association. Dr. Gary Fitzgerald proposed the name "Emirates Chiropractic Association" (ECA), which has been its identity ever since. Dr. Travis Mitchell served as the first President.

In 2009, the leadership transitioned, with Dr. Travis becoming Vice President, Dr. Charles Jones assuming the Presidency, and Dr. Pamela Leader serving as Treasurer.

From 2010 to 2012, significant changes swept through the association. Dr. Travis left the country, and Dr. Charles wrote the first by-laws before stepping down, leaving a leadership vacuum. Dr. Pamela stepped into the role of President, with Dr. Vanda Corbett becoming Secretary and Dr. Mohamad Raslan assuming the Vice Presidency, marking a pivotal moment in the association’s history.

In 2012, Dr. Mohamad Raslan took over as President, while Dr. Pamela remained as Treasurer, Dr. Niveen El Saleh became Secretary, and Dr. Vanda transitioned to Vice President. The Association continued to evolve, advocating for chiropractors' rights, including the fight to retain the "Doctor" title.

From 2014 to 2019, Dr. Vanda led the association as President. During her tenure, the ECA obtained its legal status under the Dubai Association Chamber of Commerce license. In 2017, the board solidified the title of “Dr.” with the DHA. In 2018, the NCSC (National Chiropractic Sports Council) was formed under the Dubai Association Chamber, with Dr. Paul Cheung taking the lead and affiliating with FICS. At this time, Dr. Gerry Nastasia served as Vice President, Dr. Sharik Ali as Secretary, and Dr. Pamela continued as Treasurer.

From 2019 to 2021, Dr. Gerry Nastasia became President, with Dr. Sharik Ali as Vice President, Dr. Nageena Akhtar as Secretary, and Dr. Madeline Franklin as Treasurer. Dr. Pamela served as overseer of the Finance Chair, maintaining the association’s financial transparency. Dr. Raslan continued representing the Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East Chiropractic Federation (EMMECF). During this period, the ECA launched its first website, significantly grew its membership, and hosted international clinicians for continuing education programs.

In 2021, Dr. Nageena Akhtar succeeded Dr. Gerry as President, with Dr. Tamara Ghazi as Vice President and Dr. Madeline Franklin as Secretary. Dr. Nageena faced challenges with the UAE’s growing population and unlicensed individuals posing as chiropractors, standing strong to uphold the profession's integrity.

Now, in 2023, Dr. Tamara Ghazi has risen to the Presidency, leading the Association into its current era.

As the Association’s history continues to unfold, it remains committed to welcoming fresh perspectives and upholding the highest practice standards in the UAE.