As the year gathers momentum, it is a pleasure to share some updates from ASSBI and to reflect on the many ways our community continues to grow and connect.

I would like to begin by welcoming Rhianne Hoffman, who is stepping into the role of National Student Coordinator. Rhianne is currently completing her PhD in speech pathology, focusing on inpatient cognitive-communication interventions following traumatic brain injury. It is especially pleasing to see students take on leadership roles within ASSBI, and Rhianne has already shared how valuable she found ASSBI as an undergraduate through its professional development opportunities, resources, and networks. We look forward to hearing Rhianne’s perspectives and ideas seeing how she further shapes and develops the role during her time with us.

At the same time, we extend our sincere thanks to Nicole Feast as she concludes her term as National Student Coordinator. Nicole’s enthusiasm and commitment have contributed to a number of successful student initiatives and events, and we are grateful for the energy she has brought to the organisation.

Behind the scenes, work has also been underway to review and refresh the ASSBI website. Our goal is to ensure that content remains current while keeping the site as accessible and easy to navigate as possible. Many thanks to Matt Eagers for his technical support in helping to make this happen. We encourage members to explore the site and let us know if you encounter any sections that are difficult to access or navigate.

Of course, one of the highlights of the ASSBI calendar is fast approaching. The ASSBI/NZSIGN Conference will be held from 7–9 May in Christchurch, and we are looking forward to gathering in person once again. The conference convenors have developed an exciting program featuring workshops and keynote presentations from national and international experts.

Our keynote speakers include Associate Professor Noah Silverberg, who will present on post-concussion syndrome, and Dr Makarena Dudley, who will discuss the development of a Māori assessment of neurological abilities for people with dementia. In addition, Professor Vicki Anderson will present on evidence-based interventions for children with acquired brain injury, and Associate Professor Felicity Bright will explore communication in stroke care. Reflecting the breadth of our field, the conference program spans brain conditions across the lifespan and highlights the importance of integrating research and practice across diverse contexts.

I look forward to seeing many of you in Christchurch and the collaboration, learning, and shared commitment to advancing knowledge and practice in brain impairment that will inevitably occur during those few short days. For those of you who are unable to join us, we will continue to connect with you via our website and email to keep you up-to-date on all things ASSBI.

Before signing off, I would like to express my sincere condolences to Nick Rushworth’s family and friends, and to the many people whose lives Nick has impacted. Nick was a leading voice in encouraging us all to think differently about how we engage in brain injury rehabilitation and his contributions continue to be felt. In honour of his legacy, ASSBI will dedicate the Lived Experienced Award to Nick at the conference in May. His influence will remain an important part of our community and its future.

Barbra Zupan, President, ASSBI