January e-News
Dear Colleagues
Warm greetings from Sydney, Australia, and my very best wishes to each of you as we begin an exciting new year for our Association. It is both an honour and a privilege to address you for the first time as President of the International Association of Paediatric Dentistry. I officially assumed this role during our successful IAPD Congress in Cape Town in October 2025, a memorable occasion that reflected the vibrancy, diversity, and collective strength of our global community.
I step into this position with a deep sense of gratitude, humility, and responsibility. Having been involved with IAPD for many decades and having witnessed firsthand the remarkable evolution of our Association, I remain inspired by the dedication of our members and the enduring commitment to improving the oral health and well-being of children worldwide.
Since the transition of leadership in Cape Town, the new Board and Executive Committee have been working actively and constructively behind the scenes to plan, refine, and implement a wide range of initiatives aligned with our strategic goals. These efforts span education, research, advocacy, member engagement, and global outreach. While much of this work is not always immediately visible, I wish to assure you that your Association remains dynamic, forward-looking, and firmly focused on delivering tangible value to its membership.
As President, my aspiration is to serve with openness, transparency, and a genuine willingness to listen. IAPD’s greatest strength lies in its members, and I warmly invite your ideas, feedback, and active participation. Whether through your national societies, committees, educational activities, or research collaborations, your involvement is what sustains and advances our Association.
I thank you for the trust you have placed in me and for your continued support of IAPD. I look forward to working closely with all of you over the coming years as we build upon the proud legacy of our Association and continue to shape a bright future for paediatric dentistry worldwide.
With warm regards and best wishes for a successful and fulfilling 2026,
Dr Soni Stephen
President, International Association of Paediatric Dentistry (IAPD)
Sydney, Australia
The IAPD is excited to unveil its Standing Committees for 2025-2027! We’re thrilled to collaborate with talented and dedicated individuals from all around the world who will join us on a two-year mission to elevate children’s oral health worldwide.
Led by President-Elect Virinder Goyal, the Committee oversees the administration of awards and prizes given by the IAPD.
This Committee plays a vital role in objectively evaluating incoming bids for future IAPD Congresses.
We rely on the extensive experience of past presidents and the secretary general to review IAPD’s regulations and propose necessary changes to the Board of Directors and IAPD Council.
Education is a fundamental pillar of the IAPD, and this committee plays a crucial role in facilitating various initiatives, like the popular IAPD Webinars.
The IAPD Executive Committee tirelessly dedicates countless hours to supervise standing committees, board members and association manager, forming the core of the association, ensuring smooth and efficient functioning. The Secretary General, Anna Maria Vierrou leads this committee.
The Finance Committee’s primary responsibility is to provide guidance to the Board of Directors on matters concerning the financial affairs of the IAPD when required. They actively work to explore and negotiate strategies for enhancing the financial stability and security of the organization.
The Membership Committee, chaired by Gabriela Scagnet, serves as the direct link to all member-related matters. Membership is our connection with the global community.
The Nominations Committee is comprised of former presidents and bears the vital responsibility of providing recommendations to the Board of Directors regarding the appropriate composition and membership of the Board.
The IAPD Science Committee, led by Vineet Dhar, strives to foster international cooperation on oral health care issues and provide evidence-based information for the IAPD’s website.
The Nominations Committee is comprised of former presidents and bears the vital responsibility of providing recommendations to the Board of Directors regarding the appropriate composition and membership of the Board.
Mark your calendars for the following exciting webinars:
On 22 February, Dr. Prasad Musale will present on the topic: Non Vital Pulp Therapies in Primary Teeth.
On 15 March, Dr. Alkisti Vousvouni will present a webinar sponsored by Microcopy. The topic: Composites for People in a Hurry: The Chipped Incisor.
Important Note: IAPD live Webinars are exclusively available on Zoom, with no live streaming on social media. Don’t miss out – secure your spot today!
IAPD Members not only have the opportunity to actively participate but are also eligible to receive a certificate of attendance. Plus, you can revisit the recorded lectures at your convenience in the IAPD Video Lecture Centre. Being an IAPD Member comes with great perks!
Join IAPD today and make the most of these exclusive benefits.
