WUWHS 2026 Distinguished Contribution Award

Award Purpose

The WUWHS 2026 Distinguished Contribution Award recognises an individual whose work has made a significant and measurable contribution to the advancement of wound care globally, through leadership, innovation, education, advocacy or service.

Award Categories

The following award categories are offered:

1. Antimicrobial Stewardship – for promoting appropriate antimicrobial use
2. Innovative Dressing Technology – recognizing advanced wound dressings
3. Compression Therapy for Venous & Lymphatic Disorders – for contributions to venous leg ulcer management
4. Patient Activation – for patient empowerment initiatives
5. Advances in Infection & Biofilm – for tackling infection and biofilm challenges
6. Best Clinical Research – for significant research impact
7. Most Progressive Society – recognizing societal impact
8. Diabetic Foot Ulcer – for contribution to diabetic foot ulcer and limb salvaging management
9. Pressure Injury - for contribution to patient safety through pressure injury prevention

Focus Area
The awards cover a broad spectrum, including chronic wounds, exudate management, wound balance, new technologies, clinical practice, and research, celebrating those who significantly impact patient care and outcomes.

Award Recognition

1. The award will be announced during the Presidential Gala Dinner.
2. A certificate and plaque will be presented to the candidates who are selected.
3. Winners will be published on the WUWHS website.

Eligibility Criteria

a. Any individual is eligible to be nominated or to self-nominate. All nominations MUST be submitted via the online form by 1st June 2026.

b. Have demonstrated sustained global or multi-regional impact on wound care.

c. Show evidence of impact in at least one of the following:

  • Clinical practice improvement
  • Education and capacity building
  • Research translation into practice
  • Policy, advocacy or system-level change

d. Each nomination must include:

  • Completed nomination form
  • A summary statement (maximum 500 words) describing the global impact
  • Supporting evidence (e.g. outcomes, collaborations, publications, and programmes)
  • Endorsement letter by organisation or supervisor

e. Selection criteria:

  • Scope and sustainability of global impact
  • Innovation and leadership
  • Demonstrated outcomes and real-world benefits
  • Alignment with WUWHS mission and rules

Submission Dates

1. Closing date for nominations: 1st June 2026.
2. Shortlisted candidates will receive an official notification by 1st August 2026.
3. If you are shortlisted, please register for the congress (or register earlier to make use of the early bird offer).