Taking place from 7–9 June 2025 in Lisbon, Portugal, the SOE Congress is one of Europe’s leading multi-specialty ophthalmology meetings. With a world-class scientific programme, this in-person event offers a rich mix of symposia, live surgery, debates, workshops, mystery cases and updates across all key subspecialties. The congress also puts a strong emphasis on education and networking for early-career ophthalmologists through its dedicated Young Ophthalmologist (YO) programme.
As President of the SOE Young Ophthalmologist Committee, Dr Jelena Potic plays a key role in shaping these opportunities. A specialist ophthalmologist with a strong academic and leadership background, Dr Potic is committed to expanding training opportunities and encouraging international collaboration in ophthalmology. She was also recognised as a touchOPHTHALMOLOGY Future Leader 2025. In this Q&A, she shares what to expect from the YO programme and workshops at SOE 2025, and offers advice for first-time attendees hoping to make the most of this dynamic event.
1. What key sessions and networking opportunities are planned for YOs at SOE 2025?
The YO program at SOE 2025 is vibrant, forward-thinking and specifically tailored to the needs and interests of Young Ophthalmologists. Four dedicated scientific sessions will be part of the main conference program, covering:
- Neuro-ophthalmology and Imaging – A Guide
- Prevention of Myopia Pandemics
- Sustainability and Global Ophthalmology
- Challenging Retinal Cases
Each session will be led by YOs who are rising experts offering both the latest research insights and foundational knowledge. These sessions are designed to be interactive and accessible, fostering open dialogue and peer learning.
Networking opportunities are a key part of the YO experience at SOE 2025:
- The YO Lounge will serve as a central meeting point—a relaxed space for connecting with colleagues, mentors, and leaders from various ophthalmic fields.
- Three RoundTable discussions will focus on:
- Voluntary work opportunities in ophthalmology
- Esthetics in ophthalmology
- Future career directions: how to choose between academia, clinical practice or industry
The YO General Assembly, scheduled for Saturday, 7th June at 12:00, is a key event where new YO Committee projects will be presented. All YOs are encouraged to attend and get involved.
Another major initiative is the YO Mini Exchange Program—a unique opportunity to visit hospitals abroad, experience different healthcare systems,and build long-term international connections.
And don’t miss the YO Night Out on Sunday at 8 PM – a fun, informal event where YOs can relax and connect socially with peers from across Europe and beyond. Details will be available in the YO Lounge.
We encourage all YOs to stay connected by visiting the YO Lounge and following us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, where we’ll be sharing live updates and coverage throughout the congress.
2. Can you share details on mentorship programs or workshops for YOs this year?
SOE 2025 offers a rich and supportive environment for Young Ophthalmologists to grow professionally through mentorship and practical learning. A central hub for this is the YO Lounge, where YOs can connect with peers, mentors and leading professionals from across Europe in an informal, welcoming setting. These conversations often lead to valuable collaborations, clinical exchanges, and research opportunities.
The RoundTable workshops in the YO Lounge are designed to foster interactive learning and direct mentorship. Topics will include:
- Voluntary work in ophthalmology
- Esthetics in ophthalmology
- Future career directions
These sessions provide a unique opportunity for YOs to ask candid questions, receive tailored advice, and engage directly with experienced mentors.
In addition, during SOE 2025, Thea Pharma is organizing Surgical Dry Labs, where YOs can register to practice key surgical techniques under the guidance of expert supervisors – an ideal setting for building foundational surgical skills and confidence.
The prestigious SOE YO Grant also continues this year, offering YOs the chance to visit leading hospitals abroad, exchange clinical knowledge and broaden their international exposure.
On Saturday evening, the Joint Reception for YOs and the European Leadership Development Programme (EuLDP) presents another excellent opportunity to meet potential mentors in a more informal social environment.
YOs will also learn more about the upcoming 6th European Meeting of Young Ophthalmologists (EMYO), scheduled for Germany in 2026; a key event dedicated to the future of young ophthalmic professionals.
In summary, SOE 2025 provides the ideal setting for YOs to gain mentorship, practical training and international connections that can shape their careers, research paths and future fellowship opportunities.
3. How will SOE 2025 support YOs in developing clinical and research skills?
SOE 2025 offers a comprehensive program that supports both clinical and academic growth for Young Ophthalmologists. Uniquely, the congress covers all major subspecialties in ophthalmology, allowing YOs to access a wide range of topics and updates in one place—an exceptional opportunity for broad-based learning.
YOs can join Surgical Dry Labs to gain hands-on experience and practice essential surgical techniques under expert guidance. The program also features Rapid Fire Sessions and dedicated discussions on the state of ophthalmic education in different countries, highlighting current challenges and the evolving role of YOs in shaping the future of training.
In the YO Lounge, participants will be able to engage with peers and mentors, explore research collaborations, and learn about fellowships, grants, and international exchange programs.
Key outcomes include expanded clinical knowledge, practical surgical skills, valuable mentorship, and connections that can support research, career planning, and future academic opportunities.
4. What’s your top advice for YOs attending SOE 2025 for the first time?
Come prepared. Before arriving, review the program and highlight the sessions and workshops that align with your interests—but stay open to spontaneous opportunities. Some of the most valuable connections happen during informal conversations.
Make the most of the YO Lounge—it’s a central hub for networking, mentorship, and discovering new opportunities. Attend all YO-dedicated sessions, and don’t miss the chance to join the YO Mini Exchange Program, which opens doors to international clinical experiences.
Connect with your country’s National YO Representative, who will share key updates and invitations throughout the event. Be sure to attend the YO General Assembly, where new projects will be presented.
Finally, if you’re passionate about any specific topic, approach us directly—we’re always looking to involve motivated YOs in ongoing initiatives and subcommittees.
Citation: A Guide for Young Ophthalmologists (YO) at SOE 2025: A Q&A with Dr Jelena Potic. touchOPHTHALMOLOGY.com. 24 May 20025.
touchOPHTHALMOLOGY is celebrating the brightest rising stars in the ophthalmology community, who are set to shape the future of the field.
Read more about touchOPHTHALMOLOGY Future Leaders 2025 here and take a look at our Q&A with Dr Potic here.
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