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. IAPD continues to stand as the leading global voice for paediatric dentistry, and it is a privilege to contribute to shaping its future.

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.

I am especially grateful for the outstanding assistance and support I continue to receive from Dr Anna Marie Vierrou, our Secretary General, whose institutional knowledge, professionalism, and tireless dedication are invaluable to IAPD. I also acknowledge the strong partnership and wise counsel of our President-Elect, Dr Virinder Goyal, as well as the entire Executive Committee and Board. Their collective expertise, diverse perspectives, and collegial spirit provide a solid foundation for thoughtful governance and effective leadership.

Together, we are committed to strengthening IAPD’s position as a truly inclusive and globally representative organisation. This includes enhancing educational opportunities across regions, supporting emerging leaders, fostering collaborative research, and ensuring that our scientific and professional activities remain of the highest standard. Equally important is our ongoing commitment to equity, access to care, and advocacy for children who are most vulnerable.

Looking ahead, I am delighted to highlight one of the major events on our horizon: the IAPD Global Summit to be held in Barcelona in November 2026. This Summit will provide a focused, high-level forum for dialogue, innovation, and collaboration on key themes shaping the future of paediatric dentistry. I strongly encourage members to engage with this important event, which will complement our major congresses and further strengthen international exchange and cooperation.

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