Dear Friends and Colleagues,

I am Tony Dalby. On behalf of the SA Heart® board of directors, I am delighted to invite you to the 25th Annual Congress of the South African Heart Association to be held at the Sandton Convention Centre from 17-19 October.  Be sure to join us in celebrating the first quarter century of the Association’s existence.

The theme of this year’s meeting “Unifying Hearts and Minds” speaks to the often-overlooked relationships between the central nervous system and the cardiovascular system. The interplay between brain function and cardiovascular health are deserving of our attention. Not only do structural and functional aspects of the two systems interact with one another but so do patients’ emotions and psychological milieu, influence their responses to cardiac disease. Consider also our knowledge gaps in the interactions between cardiovascular and psychotropic pharmacologic therapies that need clarification.

This Congress will offer a unique platform for cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, specialist physicians, basic scientists, technologists, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to share their passion for cardiovascular medicine and extend their understanding of this understudied area. The multidisciplinary environment will provide attendees with opportunities to showcase their work, stay up to date on the latest advancements, and enhance contact with fellow professionals. All participants are encouraged to engage fully in the planned interactive sessions and training programmes and to benefit from interdisciplinary symposia with specialists from various clinical fields.

The in-person format of our Congress will not only provide invaluable hands-on experience but also dynamic social and networking opportunities essential for professional growth. It will be an excellent opportunity for our industry partners and exhibitors to showcase their products. This is the opportunity to connect with local and international experts from different parts of the globe. An esteemed faculty will deliver innovative sessions that foster professional development and provide global perspectives on advances in cardiovascular care.

We are grateful to Dr Ahmed Vachiat and the Scientific Planning Committee, for their vision and tireless efforts in organising this meeting once again. Lastly, we extend heartfelt thanks to the SA Heart® membership, the cornerstone of our Association, for their steadfast support.

I look forward to meeting you at the Congress as we extend our professional expertise and strengthen our profession.