By Michelle Vermeulen
According to its website, the International Society of Blood Transfusion (ISBT) is a scientific society founded in 1935. The website further explains that professionals from over 100 countries come together to share knowledge to improve the safety of blood transfusion worldwide. The society advocates for the welfare of blood donors and patients through the promotion of the ISBT Code of Ethics. The society also organises international and national congresses in locations around the world.
We were therefore excited to attend the regional congress hosted in Cape Town from 18 to 21 November 2023, firstly to learn and expand our knowledge but also to show off our picturesque city. The first days’ content covered a wide variety of topics specifically aimed at everyone from Africa. The following 3 days’ content included workshops, poster presentations, academic and scientific sessions.
We had 113 staff members attending the congress during the course of the four days. Five of our staff members did us proud by being invited speakers. We also had twotaff members who presented their papers, and 12 staff members showcased their research work on posters.
Blood Buddy made a few appearances in the form of a plush toy at our exhibitor stand and he was a hit with everybody who attended.
All of us who attended enjoyed the high quality of presentations, network opportunities, exhibitions, and reconnecting with colleagues from other Blood Services.
