Welcome from the 2025-2027 ESLA Chair - Sahra Mengal

Dear ESLA community

It is with great enthusiasm and commitment that I take on this responsibility, and I look forward to working alongside our dedicated member associations, professionals, and stakeholders to advance the field of speech and language therapy across Europe.

ESLA plays a crucial role in supporting and promoting the highest standards of practice, research, and education within our profession. Our collective efforts help ensure that individuals with communication and swallowing disorders receive the best possible care and support. In the coming years, my vision is to strengthen collaboration across our network, enhance professional development opportunities, and advocate for policies that reinforce the importance of our work in healthcare and education systems.

As we navigate an ever-evolving healthcare landscape, it is essential that we stay at the forefront of innovation and best practices. By fostering greater collaboration between member associations, academia, and practitioners, we can elevate the standards of speech and language therapy and ensure that our profession remains dynamic and responsive to emerging challenges.

One of my key priorities will be to expand ESLA’s role in advocacy and policy-making. It is crucial that we raise awareness of the importance of speech and language therapy among policymakers, healthcare providers, and the general public. By strengthening our presence at both national and European levels, we can ensure that speech and language therapists have a stronger voice in shaping policies that impact the lives of millions.

Additionally, I am committed to enhancing professional development opportunities for our members. We will work towards expanding access to high-quality training, fostering international collaboration in research, and creating platforms for knowledge exchange. Through conferences, workshops, and digital resources, ESLA aims to empower professionals with the latest evidence-based practices and technological advancements in the field.

I encourage all member associations to actively engage in ESLA’s initiatives, share knowledge, and participate in discussions that shape the future of our profession. Your voices, experiences, and expertise are invaluable in driving forward our shared mission. Together, we can build a stronger, more unified community dedicated to improving communication and swallowing health for individuals across Europe.

Thank you for your continued dedication and support. I am excited about the journey ahead and look forward to working with all of you to make a lasting impact.

All the best,
Sahra Mengal,
President, European Speech and Language Association (ESLA)