President’s Letter

Fabio SANTANELLI DI POMPEO, EURAPS President

Välkommen till alla mina svenska vänner, jag tåla inte Svenska bora Göteborgska, så jag fortsätter på engelska så alla can förstår mig!

Distinguished guests, and esteemed members, for this honour I want first tanks the nominating committee but also all the officers that have collaborated with me during my past term as Secretary General, from the treasures George Noever to Esther Voeglin, to the presidents Moshe Kon, Manfred Frey, Beatrice Berenguer, George Noever, Norbert Pallua and Milomir Ninkovic.

I’am humbled by the opportunity to address this gathering of brilliant minds and passionate individuals who have dedicated their lives to the pursuit of scientific excellence in plastic surgery, which is the aim of this association.

Today, I stand before you as the President of our esteemed association, to start my mandate in the city were Joseph Edward Murray, plastic surgeon from Boston, in 1990 received the Nobel prize for his first kidney transplantation performed in 1954, being Plastic Surgery one of the two only clinical discipline to receive the nobel prize.

We live in an era of unprecedented scientific advancement, where breakthroughs in medical research are shaping the future of healthcare. It is our responsibility, as leaders in the field, to nurture and empower the next generation of doctors and scientists, providing them with the support they need to push the boundaries of knowledge even further.

I had the opportunity to spend 4 years of my training in Plastic Surgery, and beside receiving the honorary degree in medicine, honorary board in plastic surgery and honorary membership of the Swedish Association of Plastic Surgeons I was educated to 3 ethical principle.

Transparency in management, it is crucial for the growth and development, to foster an environment that encourages collaboration, innovation, and accountability.

Equal Opportunities ensure that young doctors and scientists have equal access to these resources regardless of background or circumstances.

Mentoring young doctors and scientists, through a level playing field where their talent and hard work are rewarded, where they feel valued, respected, and supported in their journey towards becoming leaders in plastic surgery.

Having the privilege of serving this association as President, I pledge to continue prioritizing transparency and equal opportunity in all aspects of EURAPS decision-making processes, with the intention to eliminate any involuntary bias and favoritism, and to ensure that opportunities are allocated based only on merit and potential.

Additionally, together will the SG we will implement an open-door policy, encouraging young doctors and scientists to voice their ideas, concerns, and aspirations. We will actively listen to their perspectives and provide mentorship and guidance, empowering them to navigate the complexities of the plastic surgery field.

I will put all of my effort, to make our EURAPS actively collaborating with academic institutions, hospitals, and research centers to establish exchange program internships, fellowships, and mentorships. Through these initiatives, we will bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical experience, allowing young doctors and scientists to work alongside seasoned professionals, gaining invaluable insights and skills that will shape their future careers.

In conclusion, I believe that supporting young doctors and scientists through a transparent, rewarding management system is not just a moral imperative; it is a strategic investment in the future of plastic surgery. By nurturing and empowering these bright minds, we can unlock their potential to innovate healthcare, discover life-saving treatments, and improve the lives of millions of patients.

Dear friends, to become affiliated to a leader association of plastic surgery is a privilege that should be preserved, and spread as wide as possible, but only on merits and potentials.

If you’re thinking “what EURAPS can do for you” I invite you to think “if are you ready to join EURAPS and commit yourselves to transparency, mentorship, and equal opportunities” to ensure that the next generation of plastic surgeons can flourish and lead us towards a healthier and brighter future.

Thank you, and let us embark on this journey together.

Fabio Santanelli di Pompeo