The Retina International Youth Council invites you to our Virtual Conference on August 12th and 13th, 2021 from 12:00 – 14:30 CET.
This event is free and open to the public. We particularly encourage the young people in our communities to attend. This event has been organized and coordinated by members of the Retina International Youth Council, and covers topics selected by young people, for young people.
Click here to register online.
The conference will feature an exciting programme of guest-speakers with experience in the retina space. Discussions will revolve around genetic testing, technology and accessibility, research and innovation, and personal interest. Below is a tentative schedule, but keep an eye on our social media for more details and updates!
DAY ONE
12:00 Welcome & Introduction
12:15 Genetic Testing for Retinal Diseases – A Panel Discussion
This Genetic Testing Panel will feature a range of perspectives, including a genetic counsellor, genetic testing advocate, and young people from the community who will speak about their own experience with genetic testing.
13:15 Comfort Break
13:30 Independent Living: Career Planning, Enabling Technologies, and Accessibility
This session will focus on supports that promote independent living as someone living with a visual impairment.
Event one: Career planning as a young person living with low vision or blindness.
Event two: Enabling and assistive technologies
DAY TWO
12:00 Welcome & Introduction
12:15 Personal Interest Breakout Rooms
Here, the participants will be divided into break out groups led by our council members. They will get to participate in discussions revolving around the following themes: Mental Health, Coping during COVID with a Retinal Disease, Supporting Someone with a Retinal Disease, Dating, Parenting and Family, Career. This will be a very interactive section which we think will be exciting for all.
13:15 Comfort Break
13:30 Research and Innovation
Event one: Presentation on Emerging Therapies in the Retinal Research Space
Event two: “Ask Me Anything” – Discussions with Young Researchers