My Journey at the World Physiotherapy Congress in Dubai – Philip Hodgson

From the moment I entered the World Trade Centre, I could feel the energy in the air that can only be brought about by having over 2,000 physiotherapists from around the world in the same place. Physiotherapy professionals from every corner of the globe gathered under one roof for the first time since 2019, eagerly sharing their expertise, experiences, and innovations. The sheer diversity of backgrounds and cultures fostered an incredible atmosphere of learning and collaboration that I had never experienced before.

The World Physiotherapy Congress featured renowned speakers who delivered captivating keynote presentations. Their expertise and passion were truly inspiring, and I found myself scribbling notes so quickly that my writing became almost illegible – Thankfully the majority of sessions were recorded for future viewing! These sessions further ignited my enthusiasm and helped me view my research in a broader context, reminding me of the impact physiotherapy has on individuals and communities worldwide.

One of the most rewarding aspects of the conference was the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions with experts in the field. As I navigated through the myriad of poster presentations and attended various sessions, I found myself in conversations with professionals who shared similar research interests and whose names I had only ever expected to read as authors of journal articles rather than on a name badge around the neck of someone interested in talking to me! These interactions not only broadened my understanding but also offered valuable insights and perspectives that I could incorporate into my own work, whilst also reassuring me of the value of the projects I am currently involved with.

Presenting a poster at an international conference was a daunting task for a novice like myself. However, the support and encouragement from fellow attendees quickly dispelled any worries I had. As I stood beside my poster, the culmination of months of hard work and dedication, I experienced a sense of pride and accomplishment. My poster showcased the first phase of my PhD research – A systematic review and meta-regression analysis of the relationship between physical and psychological symptoms in individuals with Parkinson's Disease. Having been able to discuss the work, including defending various decisions that were made in the process, I feel confident of the value in my work, and my plans for the remainder of my PhD. Each poster had been allocated for display over one day of the three-day event, however as there were some empty spaces for the final day of the conference, I asked to display my poster again and was able to do so – what a sucker for punishment!

Attending an international conference provided an invaluable platform for networking. The extensive range of attendees, including clinicians, researchers, and educators, presented opportunities to build connections that have the potential to lead to future collaborations. Having these discussions allowed me to exchange ideas, seek advice, and establish connections that I believe will shape my professional journey in the years to come. Whilst networking is not something that comes naturally to me, my attitude of “shy bairns get nowt” gave me the confidence to make the most of the opportunities available, not knowing if or when another similar opportunity will arise.

The World Physiotherapy Congress was not just about academic pursuits. Being held in Dubai, it provided an incredible setting to explore the area. During my free time, I experienced the unbelievable architecture, rich cultural heritage, and the warm hospitality of the local people. These experiences added an extra layer of fulfilment to my conference experience, making it truly unforgettable.