Delegate testimonials for 33rd ICC
"I am deeply honoured to receive both the ISAC Young Investigator Travel Award and the John David Williams Award, which recognise my commitment to advancing infectious disease research. These prestigious accolades validate my efforts in antimicrobial stewardship and infection management and provide an invaluable platform to share my work with global experts.
A surgeon from Kenya had shown great interest and wanted to validate my study in a large tertiary care hope in Nairobi. This travel award have opened me the gate of opportunities to me and I had connections with pioneers in the field of Infectious Diseases.
These awards inspire me to continue striving for excellence in research and reaffirm my dedication to addressing the challenges in infectious diseases.
I finally thank the ISAC team and President Souha Kanj for providing this huge opportunity." Rithik Dharan, India

"Attending the 33rd International Congress of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy (ICC) in Istanbul, Turkey, marked a transformative milestone in my professional journey. With funding support from ISAC, I had the privilege to deepen my expertise in microbiology, infectious diseases, and One Health. Presenting my research at the ISAC/ICC Early Career Scientist Workshop, chaired by Dr Jinxin Zhao, enabled me to engage with global peers and explore critical topics such as antimicrobial resistance, stewardship strategies, and sepsis management in resource-limited settings. The workshop, complemented by Elsevier’s editorial insights and industry symposia by GSK, Abbott, and Sanofi, broadened my understanding of advanced diagnostics, AMR mitigation, and emerging health challenges. This enriching experience enhanced my knowledge, promoted valuable collaborations, and solidified my commitment to impactful contributions in microbiology, global health research and one health. I am sincerely grateful to ISAC for making this opportunity possible." Shaista Urooj, Pakistan

"Thank you for the Eastern European Travel award. Your support gave me the opportunity to attend the 33rd International Congress of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy in Istanbul. I attended many interesting lectures on antimicrobial resistance and infection prevention and control given by experts from all around the world. Attending this congress was such an enriching experience for me, especially the opportunity for networking at the poster sessions. I met many colleagues and professionals from different countries and backgrounds, yet gathered with the same goal of making our world a safer place for all. This gave me new insights and ideas which will help me in my future work and PhD studies." Dr Amina Obradović Balihodžić, Bosnia and Herzegovina

"Attending ICC 2024 in Istanbul through a Eastern European Travel Award was a great honour and privilege. The congress provided a unique opportunity to engage with leading professionals in the field and connect with colleagues worldwide. Highlights included the “Artificial Intelligence in Anti-Infectives” session, which showcased the amazing potential of digitalisation and data harnessing in advancing research. The award was immensely helpful, making our participation possible and enabling us to be fully involved in the activities of the congress. We are grateful for this support, which not only facilitated our learning but also made our time in Istanbul truly memorable." Valentin NASTASA, Robert CAPOTA, Romania

"Thank you very much for choosing me as a Travel Grant recipient. The Republic of Serbia is currently experiencing noteworthy socio-economic and political crisis. This has a huge impact on the overall costs of living, personal savings (the inflation is enormous) and limiting out-of-country travels, even for professional purposes. That is why I am so grateful for this opportunity.
As for the Conference itself - I attended exceptional lectures, met wonderful colleagues and enjoyed the Bosphorus cruise and Turkish cuisine/delights.
The overall experience was wonderful, I enjoyed every aspect of the Conference. Thank you very much for the extraordinary organisation and looking forward to meeting you again in the Philippines in 2026." Miloš Gostimirović, Serbia

"I am writing to thank the organisers of ICC2024 for the outstanding work. As a researcher I have participated in many conferences. It was my first congress of ICC but this conference met all expectations. The professionalism and knowledge of the organising team resulted in an excellent event. Most importantly, we would like to recognise Fee Johnstone for her hard work and continued dedication for the event. I was also impressed by the travel grants programmes which increased accessibility of the event. Looking forward to the next successful editions!" Dr Tomasz Jarzembowski, Poland

"The ICC was my first congress during my PhD. It helped me broaden my knowledge on many interesting aspects of microbiology. The ICC opened my eyes to various topics I did not even know the existence of. I was particularly interested in all the talks surrounding AMR, which is also the focus of my own project. Attending the ICC gave me inspiration for the topic of my literature review, something that had not yet struck by only searching the internet myself. I am grateful for receiving the Young Investigator Award which allowed me to attend this beautiful congress." Marit Bot, Netherlands

"I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to attend the ICC 2024, made possible by the generous award I received. The support not only helped cover my travel and accommodation expenses but also allowed me to engage with an incredible network of professionals and deepen my knowledge in the field. The experience was invaluable, and the award made it all possible, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the event without financial concerns. I am truly thankful to ISAC for this opportunity." Dr Amila Muratspahić, Bosnia and Herzegovina

"Receiving the ISAC Young Investigator Award was an invaluable opportunity for me, as a resident in Infectious Diseases. It enabled me to attend the ICC 2024 in Istanbul, where I presented my research on the comparison of Meropenem-vaborbactam and Ceftazidime-avibactam in treating carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales infections. The congress provided exceptional learning experiences in antimicrobial stewardship and innovative treatment strategies.

Additionally, the ICC offered unique networking opportunities to connect with experts, exchange ideas with peers, and explore potential collaborations for future research. I am deeply grateful to ISAC for supporting my participation and fostering such an enriching experience for my professional growth." Luca Mezzadri, Italy

"I express my gratitude and highlight the positive impact that this grant/award had on my professional journey. Receiving this award has provided me with financial benefits and at the same time further education.
This opportunity not only eased financial burdens but also inspired confidence and motivation to pursue my goals with greater determination." Arlinda Osmani, North Macedonia


"Receiving a scholarship to attend 33rd ICC in Istanbul earlier this year, was a great experience for me. This opportunity has granted me access to a distinguished network of global experts and thought leaders, fostering invaluable connections and collaborative opportunities. The exposure to cutting-edge research and innovative practices has broadened my intellectual horizons, sparking new ideas that will significantly enhance my work. Additionally, the scholarship has affirmed my commitment to my field, providing the impetus to pursue excellence and contribute meaningfully to academic discourse. I am deeply grateful for this support." Gordana Dragovic Lukic, Serbia

"I am deeply grateful for ISAC for the young travel award (YTA-2024), for providing me with the opportunity to expand my horizons by gaining experience through an international conference with global experts in the field and enhance my career potential. It was a great experience in Turkey to explore Istanbul hidden gems and cuisine." Rabia Ilyas, India

"I am deeply grateful to have received the ISAC Travel Award, which played a crucial role in enabling me to attend the 33rd International Congress of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy (ICC) in Istanbul this November. This incredible opportunity allowed me to engage with global experts, exchange ideas, and deepen my understanding of the latest advancements in antimicrobial research. The experience not only enhanced my professional development but also inspired me to contribute to the fight against antimicrobial resistance. I am truly thankful for ISAC’s support, which made this unforgettable learning experience possible." Natalia Konova, Bulgaria

"The award was beneficial to me and it enabled and motivated me to apply and accept participation in the 33rd International Congress of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy in Istanbul in 2024.
In my case, the award was crucial in deciding to participate in this prestigious event.
I reiterate the importance of having the availability of the grant like this one, without which I probably would not be in the position to participate." Velida Mulabdic, Bosnia and Herzegovina