The first-ever Greater Bay Area Emergency Medicine Conference (GBAEMC), organized by HKSEMS, successfully held on May 24-26, 2024. Over 400 participants from cities in Greater Bay Area and China attended the conference at Science Park, Hong Kong, exchanging their thoughts and ideas in emergency medicine.

We were delighted to have Dr. Debbie So, the Vice-Chairman of the Scientific Committee of GBAEMC, council member of HKSEMS and a young fellow of HKCEM, to share her insights following the conference.

Congratulations on the successful conference! What is your feeling as part of the organising committee?

The feeling is like a mix of relief and joy. There is a sense of accomplishment and happiness seeing everything come together smoothly. Thanks to the hardwork from the organising committee and support from HKSEMS and HKCEM and other supporting organisations, we are happy to see the conference was enjoyed by delegates from different regions. It's a moment of satisfaction knowing all the hard work paid off.

What is the challenge of organizing this first ever GBA conference? Can you describe the most difficult part?

The challenging part to organize the GBA conference is that it involved multiple parties and organisations from different regions. There was lots of liaison work & communications done in the preparatory stage, such as coordinating schedules, speakers, sponsors, logistics, and ensuring everything runs smoothly on the conference day. Meticulous planning, effective communication, time management and problem-solving skills are essential to navigate through the complexities and deliver a successful conference experience. The OC team and the Secretariat have done a great job on it and I have learnt a lot from them.

Another challenge to me is the use of different languages such as Mandarin on some occasions. Luckily, it's not an issue if you are willing. to speak and try.

Which part of this conference do you enjoy the most?

From pre-conference workshop, main conference, gala dinner and post-conference tour visit, I have enjoyed a lot as I can meet old friends, new friends and learn new knowledge. From viewpoint of OCs, we find joy in

the process of brining people together and witnessing people engage with the content and network with one another.

Especially I enjoyed the opening ceremony as this is my first time experience in being MC of a conference and I have a great MC partner carrying along. The lion dance show has brought lots of joyfulness to us.

The other memorable part is definitely the POCUS Olympics. It was the first ever similar event in Hong Kong and the atmosphere was very festive. Participants and staff all dressed up with costumes. Although I was not actively participated in it, I saw everyone has enjoyed a lot with a smiling face.