40th AGM in Brisbane: A Transformative Milestone for WCCS

The 41st Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the World Congress of Chiropractic Students (WCCS), held in Brisbane, Australia, was nothing short of transformational. With a record number of delegates in attendance, an engaging program, and dynamic discussions on key topics, this AGM went beyond expectations and set a new benchmark for the organization. Hosted in the heart of Brisbane, the event was a remarkable experience for everyone involved, and it will be remembered as a crucial moment in the organization’s history.

A Location that Inspired

Brisbane, with its stunning landscapes and vibrant city life, provided the perfect backdrop for this year’s AGM. The central location allowed delegates to experience the beauty of the city while attending discussions and presentations that shaped the future of chiropractic education. The energy of the city seemed to match the enthusiasm within the congress halls, creating an atmosphere that fostered meaningful connections and thoughtful dialogue.

Record Attendance and Diverse Voices

The AGM witnessed the highest attendance in recent years, with 137 students from 28 chiropractic colleges around the world participating. This diverse representation of future chiropractic leaders is a testament to the growing global influence of WCCS. The opportunity for students from different backgrounds, philosophies, and cultures to engage in meaningful dialogue is one of the organization’s greatest strengths. It allows for an exchange of ideas that can help shape the future of the chiropractic profession.

Throughout the week, various committees and working groups shared the fruits of their hard work from the past year. These groups have played a pivotal role in advancing the mission of WCCS, and their presentations demonstrated the range and depth of their contributions. Whether it was focusing on research, communication, or advocacy, these committees have been instrumental in fostering collaboration and innovation within the chiropractic community.

A Controversial Paper Sparks Productive Discussion

One of the major topics of discussion this year was Charlotte Le Beouff et al.’s 2019 paper titled “Chiropractic, One Big Unhappy Family: Better Together or Apart?” While the paper itself is not supported by WCCS, its divisive nature brought forward a constructive discussion on unity and the role of chiropractic students within the broader profession. Rather than dwell on the negative aspects of the paper, the conversation emphasized the importance of moving forward together as an organization.

The delegates were clear in their stance: WCCS represents all chiropractic students worldwide, regardless of gender, age, skin color, or philosophy. The diversity within the organization is its greatest asset, and while not all members think alike, the shared goal of improving chiropractic education and practice unites everyone. The spirit of inclusivity and open dialogue was a highlight of the AGM, with participants focusing on how to strengthen unity within the chiropractic profession.

The WCCS and WFC: A Key Relationship

Another significant point of discussion centered around the relationship between WCCS and the World Federation of Chiropractic (WFC). Concerns were raised following the WFC/ECU Convention in Berlin, where presentations were made that did not represent the values of unity promoted by WCCS. However, it was emphasized that the WCCS remains politically neutral and independent. While WFC supports WCCS by providing opportunities such as access to the World Health Assembly, they do not financially influence or control the organization’s actions. WCCS’s commitment to unity and neutrality was reaffirmed during this debate, further solidifying its role as a voice for chiropractic students worldwide.

Intraprofessional Collaboration and Unity in Diversity

During the AGM, discussions on consensus statements focused on supporting intraprofessional, interprofessional, and intersectoral collaboration. These discussions culminated in the creation of a consensus statement, which will encourage partnerships with organizations that align with the WCCS’s values. This will require a collaborative effort between chapters and the Team of Officials to move forward.

The discussion around unity also highlighted the importance of celebrating the differences within the profession.

Rather than trying to mold everyone into the same viewpoint, the AGM embraced the diversity that makes the organization unique. This spirit of collaboration, coupled with a deep respect for differing opinions, will undoubtedly play a crucial role in the future of chiropractic education and practice.

Workshops and Presentations: Key Highlights

Several key presentations and workshops made the AGM both insightful and forward-thinking. Jenna’s research presentation stood out, offering new perspectives that sparked high-level discussions throughout the week. Another highlight was the session led by Fraser McClymont, where updated drafts of the WCCS Mission and Vision were presented. His thought-provoking question—“We know we want to change the world, but how are we going to do it?”—encouraged attendees to think deeply about the direction of the organization and how it can continue to grow.

A robust discussion on regulation and legislation was led by Director Nerina Le Roux. Using role-playing exercises, delegates were able to explore the challenges and importance of international regulation in chiropractic. This interactive session provided valuable insights and encouraged delegates to engage with regulatory issues that impact chiropractic practice on a global scale.

Naomi Van Veen’s social entrepreneurship exercise was another key event, where delegates worked together to create solutions aimed at achieving universal health care for all. This exercise not only showcased the creativity and innovation within the group but also emphasized the role that chiropractic can play in contributing to global health initiatives.

Social Activities and Networking

In addition to the academic and professional discussions, social activities were organized every evening, providing delegates with an opportunity to unwind and build connections outside of congress hours. These events allowed chiropractic students from around the world to bond, share experiences, and form lifelong friendships. The sense of community fostered during these gatherings is essential to the WCCS mission, as it strengthens the ties between students and encourages future collaboration.

Looking Forward

As the 41st AGM in Brisbane came to a close, the Board of Directors expressed deep gratitude for everyone who contributed to the event’s success. The AGM not only highlighted the organization’s achievements over the past year but also set the stage for continued growth and collaboration within the chiropractic community. With ongoing discussions about unity, diversity, and professional development, WCCS remains committed to its mission of representing chiropractic students worldwide.

The release of the first-ever official Congress Summary Report will provide an in-depth look at the discussions and outcomes of this year’s AGM. The report, created by a dedicated team of volunteers, will serve as a valuable resource for all members moving forward.

As WCCS continues to grow, it will no doubt play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of chiropractic education and practice. With its focus on inclusivity, collaboration, and innovation, the organization is well-positioned to lead the way in uniting chiropractic students worldwide.