PARE Interviews

Passing the Torch with Heart

After four years in office, Elsa Mateus from Portugal recently ended her term as EULAR Vice-President PARE and handed over to Souzi Makri from Cyprus. Listen in what these two exceptional patient advocates have to share:

Souzi: You did an amazing job, Elsa. Did the role meet your expectations?

Elsa: As you know, EULAR is a large organisation. However, I never felt intimidated or overlooked by my colleagues on the EULAR Board. We shared responsibilities and always aimed for good results. One of my main tasks was leading a strong PARE community into the new EULAR structure alongside the different committees. Patient representatives are now involved in every EULAR Committee, ensuring that the patient voice is included throughout all processes. The twelve patient organisations that are now scientific affiliates prove that our voice keeps growing stronger.

Souzi: Are there any tasks you think I should continue?

Elsa: Take care of the volunteers. There’s a lot to do, but with all your experience, I’m sure you’ll do a great job. Is there anything in particular you would like to improve?

Souzi: We need to continue working closely with the other EULAR Committees and Communities. We can make a difference in all of EULAR's activities and as patient research partners. I will seize every opportunity to speak up to make our voice heard and hope the PARE Community will support me. Together, we’ll work towards the mission and goals of EULAR PARE. Thank you, Elsa, for all your hard and impressive work in paving the way!

Elsa: And good luck to you, Souzi! And to all our new volunteers joining the network.