Sergey Badalyan, Publishing Editor at OncoDaily and Medical Oncology Resident at Yeolyan Hematology and Oncology Center, shared a post on LinkedIn:
“As ESMO25 comes to an end, I can’t help but feel deeply grateful.
My first ESMO experience has been so much more than a congress, it was a week of learning, inspiration, and connection that I know will accompany me throughout my career as a young oncologist.
From engaging discussions to spontaneous hallway conversations, every moment carried a sense of purpose. Meeting renowned experts such as Prof. Fatima Cardoso, Prof. Giuseppe Curigliano, and Prof. Yelena Janjigian, whose work has shaped much of what I aspire to in oncology, was both humbling and deeply inspiring.
Especially memorable was meeting Prof. Natasha Leighl (ESMO Women for Oncology Award) and Prof. Rolf Stahel (ESMO Lifetime Achievement Award) in person. Having previously written original articles about their achievements for OncoDaily, seeing them receive well-deserved recognition and witnessing their humility and lifelong dedication to advancing cancer care was truly remarkable.
These encounters reminded me why I chose this path: to be part of a global effort that continuously pushes the boundaries of cancer care.
In particular I am thankful to the ESMO Young Oncologists Committee for creating spaces where early-career oncologists could connect, grow, and find community. Through their networking and leadership sessions, I had the pleasure of meeting brilliant minds like Paulina Kalman, Anna Terlecka, Mohamed Shih, Nihanthy Sreenath and others, people who made this experience even more meaningful.
ESMO25 taught me that oncology isn’t just about science; it’s about people, the patients we serve, the mentors who guide us, and the colleagues who inspire us to keep going.
Thank you, ESMO and Berlin for this unforgettable first chapter.
See you next year.”
More posts from ESMO25.
