Dear Colleagues and Friends,
I am truly humbled by the highest honor and privilege to address you as the new President of EURAPS for 2024-25. As I step into this role, I am filled with a deep sense of responsibility, enthusiasm, and dedication to continue the legacy of our most prestigious Association.
First and foremost, a warm welcome to all our members, both new and long-standing. The European Association of Plastic Surgeons has a rich history, marked by pioneering research, outstanding surgical innovations, and a strong network of academics, clinicians, and distinguished researchers, committed to the highest standards of practice in Plastic Surgery across Europe. Reflecting on our journey, we recognize the remarkable achievements of all our past leaders, General Secretaries, and Presidents, who have paved the way for our current and future successes; I am deeply grateful for their invaluable contributions, and I am committed to building on their legacy of striving for Excellence in our discipline.
In recent years, our Association has grown into a more expansive and inclusive family, while always promoting high-level knowledge and science, sharing empathy and commitment to EURAPS values, and standing at the threshold of exciting opportunities for the next generation of brilliant Plastic Surgeons all over Europe.
Looking to the future, my vision as President is to foster an environment of collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity. We will continue to enhance our educational programs through a new series of webinars, ensuring that our members have access to the latest surgical techniques, technologies, and research. Promoting Research and Innovation, in collaboration with the EURAPS Research Council, is a ‘sine qua non’ for any further development and scientific progress. We will continue to encourage cutting-edge research initiatives and facilitate collaborations with academic institutions and research centers. Establishing new exchange and fellowship programs, strengthening the EURAPS fellowships for our junior and senior Members, while sharing knowledge and expertise with our sister American Association of Plastic Surgeons, will further advance the frontiers of surgical science.
EURAPS is more than just an Association of Plastic Surgery professionals. It is a vibrant and supportive community. We will strive to inspire young aspiring European Plastic Surgeons to join our most prestigious family and create opportunities for networking, mentoring, and professional development. We will continue to actively promote inclusivity, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued. By embracing diverse perspectives, we will empower our members to reach their full potential, enrich our society, and drive innovation.
I invite you all to join this exciting journey. Your active participation, ideas, and contributions are vital to our success. Together, we will shape the future of Plastic Surgery in Europe and beyond.
In closing, I take this opportunity to express my deepest gratitude to the EURAPS Nominating Committee and all present and past EURAPS Officers for the trust you have placed in me as the next President. I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead and am confident that, together, we will achieve great things. In addition, I would like to thank the EURAPS Central Office, for their excellent cooperation and support over the years; it is a real pleasure to work with you.
I look very much forward to seeing you all again at our next Annual Meeting in Palma de Mallorca.
Warmest regards,
Efterpi Demiri
