Reflections on our Global Community

My role as GPA Programme Manager is wide-ranging, dynamic, and never dull. While we are physically based in the United Kingdom, the scope of our work is truly global. When I mention in passing, that within a single day I have been in meetings with colleagues spread across multiple continents, it often leaves people wondering exactly what it is that I do.

The GPA is established on a (growing) passionate community of dermatologists and experts from around the world. One of my roles within the GPA has been to support our Director, Professor Griffiths, in growing this network to help promote our mission and expand our research efforts. Our vast network of passionate Coordinators currently spans over 140 countries and territories around the world – no small feat! It has been a personal pleasure for me to have been involved in this process and to have met so many of these people, both online and at in-person conferences/events. I have seen the value of building strong personal networks in real time, particularly when face-to-face. I have been honoured to represent the GPA at 5 international conferences so far, picking up a few new stamps on my passport in the process.

Communicating and collaborating with our global community has been like ‘pushing on an open door’. There is an incredible amount of expertise, passion and enthusiasm which truly makes our task both enjoyable and rewarding. The research of the GPA is important but the stories and faces of the people behind the outputs are invaluable. We do some fantastic things, and it is essential for us to highlight and celebrate the people who make it happen.

Thank you to everyone who has posed for a photo with one of our well-travelled GPA branded bubble boards. It is not a mandatory task, but it is appreciated and has become somewhat of an unofficial initiation. I am used to the familiar look of dread when they appear out of a bag for an opportune photoshoot.

Next time I have a strong feeling of wanderlust, I am grateful to know that in almost every country around the world I already know a friendly face. But be warned… the GPA bubbles may be in tow.