International Voices Roundtable: Challenges, Commonalities and Relevance to Global Orthopaedics: Australian Orthopaedic Association-Diversity

Description

In this engaging presentation, Kishore Mulpuri welcomes Annette Tolian, the Australian Orthopedic Association president, to a Canadian meeting where she expresses gratitude and shares her experiences in a leadership role. Annette reflects on her career, including her involvement with various orthopedic boards, her military service as a member of the Royal Australian Air Force, and her commitments to educational initiatives, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic where the transition to hybrid meetings facilitated broader participation.



She discusses the Australian Orthopedic Association's strategic plan aimed at advancing the field through improved training, cultural diversity, and research, while highlighting the importance of representation in leadership. Annette emphasizes the need for ongoing support for women in orthopedic surgery, outlining initiatives designed to mentor and encourage newcomers to the field. She highlights the establishment of networks and resources for women, advocacy for health equity for Indigenous populations, and global surgical outreach efforts. Annette concludes by acknowledging the challenges and ongoing responsibilities of promoting diversity and inclusion in her professional community.

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