In 2026, the World Federation for Vascular Societies (WFVS) proudly marks a historic milestone: four of its eight member societies are led by women Presidents. This remarkable achievement reflects not only the extraordinary leadership of these individuals but also the evolving diversity and inclusivity within the global vascular surgery community. It’s a moment to celebrate and to inspire — showcasing how women are shaping the future of vascular surgery leadership across continents, from North America and Europe to Africa and Australasia.
The WFVS mission — to advance vascular knowledge, foster international collaboration, and promote education, research, and best practices in the diagnosis and treatment of vascular disease worldwide — thrives on diverse perspectives and global participation. In this spirit, we are honored to share the voices and visions of the four women serving as Presidents in 2026: Linda Harris (Society for Vascular Surgery), Kak Khee Yeung (European Society for Vascular Surgery), Asha Malan (Vascular Society of South Africa), and Roxanne Wu (Australia New Zealand Society for Vascular Surgery). Each brings unique experiences and leadership to her region, and their collective presence underscores the global reach and impact of the WFVS network. Below are their personal statements, offering insight and encouragement to women vascular surgeons around the world — may their words inspire the next generation of leaders.
“It is an exciting time as women worldwide are ascending to leadership roles in many of our vascular societies. I fully expect that this trend will continue to the point that this becomes a norm rather than a documentable moment in time. I hope that all of us will continue to break ground so that the next generation has an easier time in achieving their goals. “
Linda Harris, MD
“I am deeply honored and very excited to serve as President-Elect of the ESVS and to step into the presidency in October 2026. I’m aware of how vital diverse perspectives are for our specialty. Diversity and inclusion are essential for driving innovation and strengthening vascular surgery as a whole. My ambition for the ESVS is to expand our global outreach and build meaningful collaborations that cross borders. I believe in providing standardized care, guidelines, data platforms (enabling clinical and research collaborations), education and vision with a patient-centered approach. The integration of AI and emerging technologies in vascular surgery offer us extraordinary opportunities, and I’m committed to embracing these innovations. Together, we can create a sustainable future for current and future generations in vascular surgery for our patients.”
Kak Khee Yeung, MD
“As the first female President of the Vascular Society of Southern Africa, it is an honour to represent a region defined by resilience, innovation, and a deep commitment to equitable vascular care.
Across Southern Africa, vascular surgeons work in diverse and often challenging environments, yet remain united by a shared dedication to evidence-based practice, training the next generation, and improving outcomes for all patients. Through collaboration, data-driven care, and global partnership, we continue to strengthen our specialty and our voice.
I look forward to working with colleagues worldwide to advance vascular surgery, promote inclusivity and leadership diversity, and ensure that high-quality vascular care is accessible to every community we serve.”
Asha Malan, MD
“It Is a great honour to represent the vascular surgical community of Australia and New Zealand as the first woman President-elect. My career has seen a transformation in knowledge, techniques and philosophy of treatment of vascular disease, and with it a broadening of the profile of providers and patients. The increasing numbers of female surgeons, and surgeons from many backgrounds enhances our ability to provide more care for more people throughout the world.
We are approaching the time when it will not be exceptional to be a woman in vascular surgery, but rather the norm. It is a great privilege to be part of this new wave.”
Roxanne Wu, MD