Mentorship program
IODA is excited to announce the upcoming launch of its mentorship program, powered by a professional digital platform. The program is designed to empower women and minorities, champion diversity, and create mentorship relationships that stand the test of time. Whether you are a mentor or a mentee, you will have the chance to connect, share, and grow within the IODA international community. This is more than just career guidance — it’s a network of support, insights, and shared experience.
IODA is making mentorship free, accessible and dynamic. With just a few clicks, you’ll be able to connect with others who understand your journey, your challenges, and your goals.
Join IODA in building a future where diversity and inclusion shape the field of orthopaedics. Be part of a mentorship program that not only guides but also inspires. Together, let’s build a stronger, more inclusive orthopaedic community.
IODA charter signatories
IODA is honoured that more than 45 orthopaedic societies worldwide have signed the IODA Charter including the Australian Orthopaedic Association, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, the British, and Canadian Orthopaedic Associations. In signing the Charter, organisations commit to developing a strategy to improve diversity, equity, and inclusion in their organisations. IODA supports organisations with resources to develop their own initiatives and metrics to measure the progress of their diversity strategy.
IODA diverse speaker list
The IODA Speaker List is a curated resource showcasing the expertise and diversity of our global membership. Visibility of experts of diverse ethnicity on the podium is critical in driving diversity in orthopaedic research and leadership. The list features members who are available and eager to contribute to symposia, panel discussions, and other events. The list contains detailed information about the speaker's areas of expertise, subspecialties, geographic region, and language proficiency — offering a valuable opportunity for organisations to connect with leading professionals in the field.
Access to this resource is free for all IODA Charter signatories.
Research and publications
IODA emphasises the importance of research in understanding and addressing diversity challenges within orthopaedics. We are honoured to partner with the
Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery for the 'Science of Diversity' virtual Journal Club. We look forward to hosting the journal club throughout all six global regions with the support of the IODA regional representatives. In the past year, IODA members published many research papers that shed light on the disparities and barriers faced by women and minority groups in the field. These publications have been widely disseminated and have sparked important conversations within the orthopaedic community.
Partnerships and collaborations
IODA forged strategic partnerships with national and subspecialty orthopaedic organisations and more than 40 orthopaedic diversity societies around the globe. Collaborations with academic institutions, professional societies, and advocacy groups have amplified IODA's efforts and extended its reach. These partnerships have facilitated the sharing of resources, knowledge, and best practices, thereby strengthening the collective impact on diversity in orthopaedics.
Educational resources
IODA has developed a range of educational resources, including online courses, webinars, and toolkits, to equip orthopaedic professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to promote diversity and inclusion in their practices. These resources have been accessed by thousands of professionals worldwide, contributing to a more informed and proactive orthopaedic community.
Impact on patient care
The efforts of IODA and its members have had a direct impact on patient care. By promoting diversity within the orthopaedic profession, it is expected that more women and patients from under-represented minorities shall receive equal access to and outcomes of orthopaedic care, reinforcing the importance of diversity in delivering high-quality healthcare.
IODA has made significant progress in its mission to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within the orthopaedic community.
Looking ahead, IODA plans to expand its reach by launching new initiatives aimed at further promoting diversity and inclusion. These initiatives include the establishment of regional chapters to address local diversity challenges, the development of advanced mentorship schemes, and the creation of scholarship programs to support underrepresented students pursuing careers in orthopaedics. By continuing to innovate and collaborate, IODA is poised to make even greater strides in the coming years.
To sustain and build upon the progress made, IODA calls on all stakeholders within the orthopaedic community to actively participate in diversity and inclusion efforts. Orthopaedic professionals, institutions, and organisations are encouraged to join IODA in its mission, adopt inclusive practices, and advocate for systemic changes that promote equity. Together, the collective efforts of the community will pave the way for a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive future in orthopaedics.
IODA membership is FREE to all AOA members at www.orthopaedicdiversity.org.