IFPN Presidents Message

Respected Members of the International Federation of Perioperative Nurses and Valued Perioperative Professionals,

It is with great privilege and honor that I step into the role of President of the International Federation of Perioperative Nurses for 2025–2027.

Over the past 25 years, the federation has grown into a thriving organization, thanks to the dedication and hard work of former presidents, board members, and member associations. Their unwavering commitment has been instrumental in shaping the federation into the impactful body it is today. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all who have contributed to this legacy of progress.

I would like to take this opportunity to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our immediate past President, Patrick Voight. His outstanding leadership, visionary guidance, and unwavering commitment have significantly shaped the federation's progress and left a lasting legacy on its journey. I also wish to express my sincere gratitude to Treasurer, May Karam, for her contributions and dedication. It was a privilege to work alongside both Patrick and May as Secretary during the previous term. Their mentorship and guidance have profoundly shaped my perspective, laying a strong foundation for the federation’s future.

As we embark on this new chapter, my vision for our federation is rooted in three core pillars: innovation, inclusivity, and impact.
•    Innovation: We are in a transformative era of healthcare, where technology and evidence-based practices are revolutionizing perioperative nursing. The federation will embrace these advancements, fostering education, research, and digital solutions to elevate nursing standards and improve patient outcomes globally. Together, we will lead progress by integrating modern tools and promoting a culture of continuous learning and adaptability.
•    Inclusivity: Our strength lies in our diversity. As a global federation, IFPN represents nurses from all corners of the world, each bringing unique perspectives and expertise. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and collaborative community that values and amplifies every voice, ensuring that our federation reflects the richness of the profession we represent.
•    Impact: The challenges in perioperative care—such as workforce shortages, advancing patient safety, and promoting equitable healthcare—demand collective action. By strengthening partnerships, expanding our influence, and advocating for the vital role of perioperative nurses, we can create meaningful and lasting change that benefits our profession and the patients we serve.

I extend my sincere gratitude to our newly appointed Secretary, Cassandra Raj, and Treasurer, Ruth Collins, as we embark on this exciting chapter together. I look forward to working closely with them, drawing on their expertise and unwavering dedication to further the federation’s mission. 

Together, we will build upon the legacy of excellence and innovation, driving progress and shaping a brighter future for our global perioperative community.
I invite each of you to join us in this journey. Your ideas, energy, and passion are essential as we work together to achieve our shared goals and advance the federation's mission. Together, we can foster a culture of resilience, innovation, and collaboration, ensuring that perioperative nursing continues to lead global healthcare.
Thank you for your support and commitment. Let us embrace this opportunity to shape a brighter future for perioperative nursing.

Kind Regards
Prof. Dr. Meryem Yavuz van Giersbergen
President, International Federation of Perioperative Nurses (2025–2027)