In an historic event, International Bureau for Epilepsy members gathered in Rome, Italy, from September 11 to 13, 2024, for the first-ever IBE Europe Chapter Convention.

The rich programme created by IBE CEO, Donna Walsh and IBE Head of Engagement, Claire Nolan, included a variety of topics and also multiple formats from presentations to small groups to surveys, which kept all the participants engaged and involved.

Leaders in the field of epilepsy and epilepsy advocacy were there to share, including IBE President, Dr Francesca Sofia and IBE Vice-President, European Region, Elvira Vacas Montero.

The panel discussion moderated byIBE CEO Donna Walsh focused on “How can we accelerate research and innovation
for epilepsy in Europe?”

Panellists included:

• Prof. Matthew Walker, Chair,Executive Board, ILAE-Europe

• Dr. Francesca Sofia, President,International Bureau for Epilepsy

• Frederic Destrebecq, ExecutiveDirector, European Brain Council (via Zoom)

• Rosemarie Pardington, ChiefExecutive, Epilepsy Research Institute

• Lisa Moore-Ramdin, SeniorDirector, Global Medical Affairs Lead, Jazz Pharmaceuticals

• Andrea L. Wilkinson, Global Headof Epilepsy Patient Engagement Strategy, UCB

• Dzenana Rustempasic, Member, IBECommunity Council

While all of the speakers, discussions, small groups, and exercises were very helpful and necessary, the
time spent getting to know one another in person, rather than through online
means, was undeniably invaluable. Only time will reveal what types of
collaborations and progress will emerge for those affected by epilepsy from the
friendships initiated through their IBE Europe Connection.