Embedding DEI into ESSKA's Core: The Women in ESSKA Initiative

In 2018, recognizing the underrepresentation of women in orthopaedics, ESSKA launched the Women in ESSKA (WiE) initiative.

This strategic move aimed to integrate DEI principles into the association's fabric, promoting inclusivity and equity within the field. The initiative's success was acknowledged with the 2025 European Association Award in the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion category.

Strategic Integration of DEI Principles ESSKA's approach to DEI wasn’t treated as a side project but embedded as a strategic priority across the association’s activities:

• Mentorship Programme: Establishing annual mentorships between ESSKA experts with leadership experience and emerging female orthopaedic surgeons to foster guidance and career development.

• Educational Webinars & Round Tables: Hosting events addressing topics like work-life balance and leadership, including a recent webinar on Health Challenges in Female Athletes, which attracted 166 registrants.

• Scholarship Programme: Providing financial support to female professionals for attending ESSKA events and training, ensuring equitable access to opportunities.

• Leadership Development: Actively promoting female representation in leadership roles, with Berte Bøe elected as ESSKA’s first female President, who will begin her term in 2028.

Measurable Outcomes and Impact The integration of DEI into ESSKA's strategy resulted in significant progress:

• Membership Growth: Female membership increased by 123%, from 165 in 2018 to 369 in 2025.

• Leadership Representation: Women now hold 2 of the 9 positions on the ESSKA Board, a notable improvement from a decade ago when there were none.

• Programme Engagement: High participation rates in mentorships, webinars, and scholarships indicate the initiative's effectiveness in fostering an inclusive community.

Sustaining DEI Efforts ESSKA remains committed to embedding DEI into its ongoing operations:

• Community Platform: Developing an online space for continuous engagement among WiE members.

• Collaborations: Partnering with industry leaders to support and expand DEI initiatives.

• Continuous Evaluation: Regularly assessing programmes to ensure they meet the evolving needs of members and uphold DEI standards.

By strategically integrating DEI into its core operations, ESSKA's Women in ESSKA initiative serves as a model for other associations aiming to foster inclusive excellence within their organizations.