BMLA 2026 Conference Highlights: New President, Award Winners and Key Announcements
Thank you to everyone who joined us for BMLA 2026 in Solihull. Over three inspiring days, we shared knowledge, explored the latest advances in laser and energy-based medicine and enjoyed valuable discussions with colleagues from across the community.
This year’s conference also allowed us to celebrate outstanding contributions and exciting new developments within the Association. Read on for the latest news and special announcements from BMLA 2026.
Welcoming Our New President
The British Medical Laser Association (BMLA) has announced Dr Tom Lister as its new President following appointments made at the Association’s recent AGM. Dr Sanjay Rajpara was also appointed as Vice President.
Dr Tom Lister will lead the BMLA in advancing its strategic objectives, supporting professional education and strengthening engagement across the medical laser and energy-based device community. The role is intended to provide leadership, drive key initiatives and represent the BMLA across its educational, clinical and stakeholder activities, according to the Association.
The BMLA also expressed its sincere gratitude to outgoing President, Prof Vishal Madan, for his dedicated leadership and contributions to the Association over the past 10 years.
Dr Lister said: “I am honoured to accept the role of President of the British Medical Laser Association. For many years, the BMLA has played a vital role in championing excellence, safety and innovation in the use of lasers and energy-based technologies across medical, aesthetic and veterinary practice. I want to pay tribute to Prof Vishal Madan for his outstanding leadership, commitment and contribution to the Association over the last decade. I look forward to working closely with colleagues and members to strengthen education, foster collaboration, and support the continued advancement of our field.”
Recognising outstanding contributions
The conference was also the perfect opportunity to celebrate the exceptional contributions of BMLA founding member, Mr Vasant Oswal, and his wife, Mrs Nirmal Oswal. It was with immense gratitude that they received the BMLA Lifetime Achievement Award, presented to a standing ovation from delegates. Although stepping down from his role as BMLA Vice President, Mr Oswal will continue to support the Association as Chair of the Education Committee, and we look forward to the continued collaboration!
Inaugural Shark Tank Prize Winner Announced
BMLA 2026 featured our first-ever Shark Tank session, showcasing innovative research and emerging ideas from delegates across the field. Participants competed for the prestigious ‘Vasant and Nirmal Oswal Research Prize 2026’, presenting their work to both peers and industry experts.
We are delighted to announce that Mr Theodore Pezas, from Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, won this year’s prize for his presentation: “Laser Speckle Contrast Imaging for Perfusion-Guided Laser Interventions in Paediatric Plastic Surgery.”
The prize comes with a cash award and a complimentary ticket to BMLA 2027 in Manchester. Congratulations to Theodore, and thank you to everyone who contributed to making this inaugural session such a success.
BMLA Best Oral Presentation Prize Winners
With so many excellent presentations delivered throughout the conference, the Programme Committee faced an exceptionally difficult task in selecting this year’s winners.
Congratulations to:
- Dr Byung Jin Kim, Dermatology Registrar at RUH Bath, for the presentation:
“Ablative CO2 in palliative management of symptomatic metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma” - Dr Thandiwe Banda, Internal Medicine Trainee at Birmingham Skin Centre, for the presentation:
“Laser hair reduction as primary treatment for sacral pilonidal sinus disease”
Both winners receive a cash award, one year of complimentary BMLA membership, and tickets to attend BMLA 2027 in Manchester. Congratulations from everyone at the BMLA.
Save the Date: BMLA 2027
We are pleased to announce that the next BMLA Conference, including pre-conference Educational Courses, will take place from 19–21 May 2027 at the King’s House Conference Centre in Manchester.
Please save the date and look out for abstract submissions and registration opening later this year.
