Volume 31 | June 2026

The new mandate of the World Federation of Orthodontists (WFO) Executive Committee has begun with great enthusiasm, energy, and a strong spirit of collaboration under the leadership of Letizia Perillo. Since the beginning of the term, the Executive Committee members have worked with remarkable harmony and shared vision, demonstrating a collective commitment to strengthening the global orthodontic community and enhancing communication with WFO members worldwide.

Among the first important innovations introduced is the transition from the traditional WFO Gazette to a new monthly newsletter format. This updated communication platform aims to provide members with more timely information, regular updates, and closer engagement with the activities of the Federation.

Educational initiatives also continue to grow, with the highly appreciated WFO webinars remaining scheduled on the second Tuesday of every month, offering high-level scientific and educational content to orthodontists across the globe.

Additional new initiatives include the launch of an international competition for the redesign of the WFO logo, reflecting a forward-looking vision for the Federation’s identity, as well as the official opening of the bidding process for the 2035 International Orthodontic Congress.

These projects mark the beginning of an ambitious and dynamic new chapter for the WFO. Stay tuned and follow our social channels!

The President’s Breakfast was held on Sunday, May 3, chaired by President Letizia Perillo. The first six months of her mandate were characterized by strengthened collaboration within the Executive Committee, expanded to 20 members, and with the global orthodontic community.

Recognition was given to the Immediate Past President, Nikhillesh Vaiid, and to José Maria Robles Gil as the new North American Representative. Appreciation was also expressed to Vice President Bryce Lee for his strong commitment.

Key developments included the establishment of the Oversight FLOS Committee as a Standing Committee to support FLOS, the Future Leaders in Orthodontics Society, the redesigned WFO website, and the promotion of World Orthodontic Health Day, whose motto “Beyond Straight Teeth” highlights the broader health and social impact of orthodontics.

Strategic initiatives focused on the modernization of the WFO logo, sustainability research, and expansion of educational webinars. Progress was also reported on the Educators List, Certification Boards, and the upcoming Educators’ Forum in Singapore.
The four Annual Awards recognized excellence worldwide. Future planning included membership growth, the IOC 2030 in Milan, the IOC 2035 bidding process, and branding initiatives.

The meeting concluded with recognition of a solid foundation for the continued global development of the Federation.

The WFO proudly announced the recipients of the 2026 WFO Annual Awards during the WFO Breakfast Meeting held on May 3, 2026, in Orlando, Florida, in conjunction with the AAO Annual Session. Led by Awards Committee Chair Prof. Letizia Perillo, the Awards Committee completed a rigorous review and deliberation process recognizing excellence in orthodontic research, leadership, humanitarian care, and artistic advocacy worldwide.

This year’s awardees represent the diversity, talent, and commitment of the global orthodontic community. Through scientific achievement, patient-centered care, and professional service, the honorees embody the mission of the WFO in advancing orthodontics and transforming lives internationally.

The WFO maintained a strong presence at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) Annual Session, held in Orlando, Florida, from May 1–3, 2026. Activities commenced on April 29 with the WFO Executive Committee Meeting, which provided an opportunity for leadership discussions and strategic planning.

On April 30, the WFO hosted its Pre-Congress Meeting, featuring presentations by distinguished orthodontists from around the world, including Reem Alansari, Adith Venugopal, Vinod Krishnan, Derya Germec Cakan, Sarah Abu Arqub, Hanyi Li, Zofia Juszka, Jorge Castillo, Joseph Varghese, Young Guk Park, and Vaska Vandevska-Radunovic. The program highlighted the Federation’s commitment to global educational exchange and showcased diverse perspectives on contemporary orthodontic practice and research.

Additional meetings were held with the AAO leadership team to coordinate our activities, with Fiducient Advisors to review the Federation’s investment portfolio, with the Editorial Board to discuss publication initiatives, and with the Regional Membership Chairs to strengthen member engagement and communication across regions.

Several WFO members participated as lecturers during the AAO scientific program, including Ambra Michelotti, Daniela Garbo, Eric Liou, Ramzi Haddad, Letizia Perillo, and Roberto Hernández-Orsini, who was honored with the John Valentine Mershon Award. Members of the Executive Committee also attended the American Board of Orthodontics Awards Night and the AAO Global Reception.

Through these activities, the WFO continued to foster international collaboration, professional development, and educational excellence within the global orthodontic community.

The Annual Congress of the Vietnam Association of Orthodontists (VAO) 2026 was successfully held from March 20 to 22, 2026, in Da Nang, under the theme “Shaping the Future of Orthodontics.” The meeting provided an important platform for the exchange of scientific knowledge, clinical experience, and innovative ideas, continuing VAO’s commitment to advancing orthodontics and strengthening international collaboration. The conference was honored by the presence of Dr. Bryce Lee, Vice President of the WFO, who delivered the opening address.

The congress featured a comprehensive scientific program and brought together 187 participants. One of the most memorable moments of the congress was the Gala Dinner, thoughtfully organized in honor of the delegates.

Alongside the conference, a General Assembly was convened to elect the Executive Committee for 2026–2028. Congratulations to the appointment of a new Executive Committee headed by Dr Tran The Tho, the newly elected President.

The VAO Congress 2026 was a highly successful scientific event that combined academic excellence, clinical relevance, and innovation. Bringing together leading experts and professionals, the congress provided a valuable platform for advancing orthodontic knowledge and fostering international cooperation. VAO looks forward to continued engagement with the WFO in future initiatives.