Healthcare simulation is often seen through the eyes of clinicians and educators—but what happens when a technology expert enters this world? In this episode of SIM Moove, Youness Zidoun shares his fascinating journey from IT engineer to simulation center director, leading projects in both Morocco and Dubai. With Fouad Marhar, he discusses the complex challenges of building simulation centers from scratch, managing budgets, securing international certifications, and navigating global careers where language, adaptability, and planning make all the difference. This conversation offers rare insights into the technical, managerial, and human dimensions of simulation leadership.
A SIMZINE exclusive based on SIM Moove podcast interview with Youness Zidoun
In this episode of SIM Moove, host Fouad Marhar welcomes Youness Zidoun, a unique figure in healthcare simulation whose journey bridges continents, disciplines, and languages. An IT engineer by training, Youness unexpectedly fell into the world of simulation and has since become a leader in developing simulation centers in Morocco and Dubai. Their conversation explores the complexities of designing simulation spaces, managing financial models, embracing international certification, and the crucial role of language skills in building a global simulation career. This inspiring dialogue offers not only technical insights but also personal reflections on navigating and thriving in the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare simulation.
Falling into the Simulation World (Almost by Accident)
When people describe how they got involved in healthcare simulation, many stories begin with a chance encounter—and Youness Zidoun’s story is no exception. Back in 2014, while pursuing a doctoral thesis and searching for a job, Youness stumbled upon a position as an IT systems engineer at the Sheikh Khalifa Foundation in Casablanca. Shortly after joining, he was invited to take part in a brand-new simulation project connected to the Mohammed VI University of Health Sciences.
In what could be described as a baptism by fire, Youness found himself on-site the very next day for the delivery and setup of simulation equipment. A comprehensive training led by expert Franck Bézier introduced him to not only the technical aspects but also the pedagogical philosophy of simulation. From there, Youness became deeply involved in developing the simulation center’s technical infrastructure and operations, eventually overseeing the creation of one of Africa’s largest simulation centers at 4,200 square meters.
From Casablanca to Dubai: Scaling Up Simulation
After years of building expertise in Morocco, Youness transitioned to Dubai in 2020, joining Rashid University and later the Dubai Medical University. Once again, he found himself at the ground floor of a new project: designing and constructing a simulation center from scratch.
Whether managing 300 or 4,000 square meters, Youness emphasizes that it’s not just about space—it’s about strategic planning, optimizing resources, and defining clear educational goals. “The surface area doesn’t define success,” he explains. “It’s how well we’ve anticipated logistical challenges, defined key performance indicators (KPIs), and aligned the center’s design with the institution’s long-term vision.”
His technical background gives him a unique perspective on the operational side of simulation management, which often gets overlooked in favor of purely educational discussion.
The Business Behind Simulation: Financial Models and Management
One of the most enlightening parts of the interview is the candid discussion around money—a topic often avoided in healthcare education conversations. Simulation is expensive, and its financial sustainability varies dramatically depending on the institution’s structure.
In nonprofit models—such as university-affiliated hospitals or public healthcare institutions—simulation centers often operate as cost centers, with little or no pressure to generate revenue. “The priority is training students and staff, not profitability,” Youness notes. In contrast, private institutions often require their simulation centers to justify return on investment, balancing educational value with business objectives.
Regardless of the financial model, Youness stresses the importance of autonomy: “No one understands simulation management better than someone directly involved in simulation. Being financially independent allows managers to allocate resources strategically, invest wisely, and maintain high-quality training over time.”
His experience managing both nonprofit and private centers illustrates how financial strategy is inseparable from simulation leadership.
Certification: Gaining Global Recognition
Healthcare simulation may be a young field, but internationally recognized certifications are increasingly becoming key benchmarks of expertise. For Youness, pursuing certifications through the Society for Simulation in Healthcare (SSH) was a natural next step to advance his career and gain legitimacy in global circles.
He holds both the Certified Healthcare Simulation Operations Specialist (CHSOS) and the Certified Healthcare Simulation Educator (CHSE) credentials—an uncommon dual achievement that reflects his commitment to mastering both technical and educational aspects of simulation.
“Certification is like driving in a new country,” Youness explains with a smile. “Even if you know how to drive, you have to learn local rules. SSH certifications gave me access to international best practices, allowing me to align my work with global standards.”
While he acknowledges that certification is not perfect, Youness believes it provides a valuable common language, particularly for those aiming to collaborate with North American partners, where such credentials carry significant weight.
The Language of Opportunity: Mastering English
Another key theme in Youness’s journey is the role of language—specifically English—as a critical factor for international career growth in simulation.
Originally from Morocco, where French and Arabic dominate, Youness recognized early that English proficiency was essential to access global research, participate in international conferences, and build networks with simulation leaders around the world. His early fascination with English, encouraged by a dedicated high school teacher, eventually enabled him to publish in English and engage confidently with global peers.
As Fouad remarks in the interview, English is no longer just a “nice-to-have” but often a gatekeeper for accessing the broader simulation community. “If you speak English,” Fouad observes, “the world opens up. If not, your development opportunities remain limited.”
Youness’s story demonstrates how language skills can become a powerful career accelerator, breaking down barriers and unlocking professional mobility across borders.
The Real Impact of Simulation: Measured in Confidence
While financial models and certifications are important, what truly motivates Youness is witnessing the impact of simulation on learners and patient care. He shares a compelling example of an in-situ simulation program conducted in a hospital emergency department, where staff participated in multiple crisis scenarios, including cardiac arrests.
The training didn’t just improve technical skills—it boosted confidence. Comparing recent graduates trained extensively in simulation to previous generations who learned primarily on real patients, Youness observes a stark difference: “Those trained in simulation approach their clinical work with more confidence and less anxiety. They’re better prepared emotionally for real-world situations.”
Such anecdotes, while less formal than peer-reviewed studies, are powerful testaments to the value of simulation in improving not only clinical outcomes but also professional wellbeing.
Career Advice: Draw a Map, Build Your Future
As the conversation draws to a close, Youness offers heartfelt advice for anyone entering the field: plan your career proactively. “Many people stumble into simulation unexpectedly, as I did. But once you’re here, you’ll find countless opportunities. The key is to design a career path—define your goals, seek out training, and continually build your skills.”
His message is clear: healthcare simulation isn’t just for clinicians. With the right mix of technical expertise, educational knowledge, and global perspective, anyone—whether clinician, educator, or technical manager—can make meaningful contributions.
Conclusion: A Career Without Borders
Youness Zidoun’s story is a perfect illustration of the multidimensional nature of modern healthcare simulation. It’s a field that requires technical rigor, educational insight, financial savvy, and cross-cultural adaptability. And above all, it rewards those who remain curious, resilient, and open to lifelong learning.
From Casablanca to Dubai, from IT engineer to global simulation leader, Youness embodies the evolving face of simulation—a discipline no longer confined to academic silos, but reaching across professions, languages, and borders.
As simulation grows, stories like his remind us that sometimes, the best simulation professionals are the ones who didn’t expect to be here—but chose to build something remarkable once they arrived.
Full conversation available in French on SIM Moove
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