As the coronavirus began spreading around the world last year, Malual Mabur, PA-C, saw a need to educate the Sudanese community about COVID-19 and to dispel some of the myths and misinformation that were circulating.
Mabur is from South Sudan, where he trained as an infectious disease specialist before moving to Maine in 2009. He became a naturalized citizen in 2013 and earned his Master of Science in physician assistant studies from UNE in 2017.
Mabur created a YouTube video to share facts with the local Sudanese community about COVID-19, how it spreads, and how to protect oneself. It received thousands of views across the globe. Soon after, he reached out to some South Sudanese professional colleagues and began hosting Facebook Live events to educate, allay fears, and answer questions. Together they provided a calm, respected voice in turbulent times.
"It's been really positive, and we've made it better by reflecting the medical knowledge we have," explained Mabur.
In addition to COVID-19 information, they have discussed topics such as hypertension, diabetes, autism, and children with special needs.
Mabur has a longtime commitment to "serve the least, the last, and the lost." He has worked with refugees and internally displaced people in the United States and abroad and is a leader in the South Sudanese community in the Greater Portland area.
Mabur joined the Adult Inpatient Medicine Advanced Practice Provider Service team at Maine Medical Center (MMC) in March 2019. He was awarded MMC's 2020 Hospital Medicine Excellence Award for his commitment to patients and community that extends far beyond the walls of the hospital.
"It's about providing hope, building trust, and letting people know we are here to support them," said Mabur
