This year the Australia and New Zealand Breast Cancer Trials Group (ANZBCTG) will hold its 36th Annual Scientific Meeting (ASM) in Wellington, New Zealand, from 16-19 July.
The ASM attracts leading national and international researchers who come to hear about recent advances in breast cancer research, share knowledge and research outcomes. They also collaborate and plan for new breast cancer clinical trial research initiatives.
Each year, the ASM runs a consumer advocate program, the IMPACT Advocate Program, for participants who want to learn about the latest news and direction of breast cancer research from leading national and international speakers. They will hear of recent research breakthroughs and new research strategies in the global fight against breast cancer.
BCAC chair, Libby Burgess, is strongly encouraging women in New Zealand to apply for a place in the IMPACT Advocate Program. She says, “This is a unique opportunity for consumers with an interest in breast cancer research to attend Australia and New Zealand’s most important breast cancer research forum. The ASM is only held in New Zealand once every six years and it is a wonderful opportunity for New Zealand breast cancer advocates to gain some training and education.
“Not only will these women broaden their knowledge of breast cancer research, but they will also get to meet like-minded women who share a common interest in research and personal experience of breast cancer.”
The Program is designed with consumers in mind, to enhance their knowledge and understanding of breast cancer clinical trials and how these are developed and conducted. The aim is to provide participants with the knowledge and skills needed to be effective advocates for breast cancer clinical trials in the wider community.
Participants in the IMPACT Advocate Program attend the Scientific Sessions each day, followed by tutorials with key ANZBCTG members who are able to discuss and explain the topics that were presented. Participants don't need to have science degree, just a willingness to learn, participate in discussion and ask questions.
Following the IMPACT Advocate Program, participants submit a report based on one of the Scientific Sessions.
To watch a short video about the program, which includes past participants, click here.
Successful applicants receive a grant to cover travel to the conference, accommodation, registration, all meals and attendance at social functions. For more information and an application form to apply to attend this year’s IMPACT Advocate Program click on the link below or contact BCAC on bcac@breastcancer.org.nz if you have any questions.
Applications close on 2 May 2014.
For more information please contact impact@bcia.org.au or call +61 2 4925 3022
+61 2 4925 3022.
