Finalist
Visionary Pathways
by HCG on behalf of Boehringer Ingelheim
Summary of work
The retinal health landscape is one of late diagnosis, limited real-world translation of trials and a lack of disease-modifying therapies. As a newcomer in ophthalmology, Boehringer Ingelheim aimed to engage the community, facilitate collaborations in novel science and establish leadership towards earlier intervention to realise a future of vision preservation and protection. At the Visionary Pathways meeting, we convened 21 retinal health experts to strengthen academia–industry partnerships, forged joint research discussions on repurposing an Alzheimer’s-targeted molecule and established authorship groups. Attendees praised the initiative’s uniqueness and impact, found it engaging, and expressed interest in future meetings. Research thrives on diverse perspectives, so we sought to bring together voices from different backgrounds, geographies and experience levels to facilitate exchange of fresh ideas while fostering meaningful connections within the community. To drive innovation and strengthen their role in the field, Boehringer were bold and invested at a uniquely early stage, before any guarantee of commercial success, demonstrating a trail-blazing approach and deep commitment to the community. Designed with a journey theme, the event featured keynotes to inspire bold thinking, workshops, and interactive, open‑mic–style sessions. Networking was core to foster new connections and build a community of common cause.
Judges’ comments
’Visionary Pathways’ is an interesting and well-executed programme designed to stimulate and enable true scientific exchange. The team's focus on diversity of opinions and insights of those with lived experience was excellent, and the judges particularly liked the fostering of a supportive environment for junior HCPs. The panel is excited to see how the outcomes progress.
