A First for Canada

2021 World Congress of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology

The International Federation of Oto-Rhino-Laryngological Societies (IFOS) World Congress of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology is coveted by conference destinations around the world – and competition for the 2021 Congress was particularly fierce with alluring candidates like Buenos Aires, Marrakesh, Dubai, Yokohama and Vancouver. In 2017, after successfully submitting a compelling proposal, engaging in consistent and widespread lobbying and obtaining support from key stakeholders and partners across the country, Vancouver was awarded the title of host city. The 2021 Congress marked the first time in its 53-year history that IFOS has met in Canada.

The driving force behind IFOS 2021 is Dr. Brian Westerberg, otolaryngologist and IFOS 2021 Bid Committee President. As local host, Dr. Westerberg worked closely with MIND Partnership to craft a powerful bid that successfully convinced IFOS that Vancouver would host the best Congress in history. In addition to a detailed and attention-grabbing proposal, Dr. Westerberg and MIND Partnership filmed a short yet impactful video that shared a glimpse of the delegate experience: gallery-like airport with easy – and environmentally friendly – access to Vancouver’s downtown core; stunning views of the city’s oceanside perspective; glittering skyline and inviting hotels; and LEED Platinum-awarded Vancouver Convention Centre.

The proposed – and accepted – theme for the 2021 Congress was “Globalization of Health Care: Implications for Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery”, an issue that capitalizes on Canada’s prominent role in health globalization and medical education. More than 4,000 physicians and surgeons, medical educators, scientists and allied health workers from around the world were expected, allowing Vancouver and Canada to share key medical breakthroughs accomplished by Canadian researchers and medical professionals. The Congress also offered an opportunity for attendees to discuss the growing importance of sustainable healthcare in one of the world’s most sustainable destinations.

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