A new chapter begins for emerging talent in implant dentistry
The landscape of implant dentistry is evolving rapidly, and with it comes the need for outstanding leaders who can guide the field forward. Recognizing this critical need, the ITI has launched an ambitious new initiative: the ITI Future Leaders Program. This program takes a proactive approach by identifying and nominating promising emerging talents. The mission is clear: to scout, identify, and develop exceptionally talented dental professionals with initial leadership experience, and then equip them with the skills necessary to take on leadership roles within the ITI and in the broader field of implant dentistry.
The complex process leading to the selection of the final top 10 participants is detailed below. This year, the selection process culminated in a four-day immersive experience – known as the BootCamp – at the annual ITI meetings in Paris.
The BootCamp experience: Feedback from a mentor and a participant
Dr. Javier Calatrava Serrano de Haro (participant) and Dr. Gülce Çakmak (mentor) share their experience of the inaugural ITI Future Leaders BootCamp.
“Last Wednesday, ten of us arrived in Paris from all corners of the world, filled with anticipation, and with our ITI app showing the most packed agenda we had ever seen for a meeting.“
Javier Calatrava
The energy was immediately palpable as the Future Leaders gathered in the hotel lobby for dinner—a diverse group representing every corner of the globe, some familiar faces, others soon to become colleagues and collaborators. Together, they would form what is now the current ITI Young Task Force, driven by common purpose and united by mutual vision.
“We were thrilled to connect face-to-face with the individuals who represent the future of our field. The ITI Future Leaders Program is one of the most exciting initiatives the organization has launched, and the days that followed were packed with meaningful sessions and shared experiences that we had all been eagerly anticipating.“
Gülce Çakmak
What followed was a masterclass in leadership hospitality. The ITI Board of Directors joined the group for dinner—but this wasn’t a traditional, formal “meet the board” setting. In what Dr. Calatrava describes as “a beautifully humble reversal of roles,” board members rotated seats throughout the evening, not waiting to be approached, but actively coming to meet each participant individually.
“It was a gesture that spoke volumes about the spirit of the ITI and how excited they were about the project. The authenticity, the closeness, and the heartfelt interest they showed made us feel more part of the ITI family than ever before. That dinner set the tone: this wasn’t just a leadership program, it was the beginning of a shared journey.”
Javier Calatrava
Inside the ITI: Behind the scenes
Thursday brought intensive rotations through the core ITI Committees—Research, Leadership Development, and Education. For Dr. Calatrava, a former ITI Scholar himself, witnessing the “behind-the-scenes” process was profoundly meaningful.
At the Research Committee, participants found out more about the work behind funding and supporting groundbreaking studies worldwide. They learned how accomplished scientists and clinicians not only allocate substantial research grants but go beyond by offering applicants well considered feedback and mentorship to strengthen future submissions.
The Leadership Development Committee visit was particularly impactful: “I saw the care and deliberation that goes into reviewing every scholarship application: the same process that gave me the opportunity to move abroad and shape my career into what it is today. It was evident that the committee’s dedication to empowering young professionals is more than a duty—it’s a mission,” said Javier Calatrava.
The Education Committee showcased the organization’s forward-thinking approach, with lively discussions about modernizing the ITI’s vast educational content and transforming traditional lectures into innovative, accessible formats for over 25,000 global members.
From theory to practice: Leadership in action
The BootCamp featured inspiring lectures from leading personalities in the field – German Gallucci, Oscar González-Martin, Nikos Mattheos, Charlotte Stilwell, and Alexander Ochsner, each bringing unique perspectives on leadership in academia, private practice, teaching, and business.
But theory quickly gave way to action: In an intense, high-energy workshop, participants were divided into breakout groups and challenged to solve real-life problems previously faced by ITI Committees—all within 45 minutes. Guided by Committee members and the Board of Mentors, they worked collaboratively to craft solutions and present them to the group. This approach helped participants understand the variety of leadership approaches and prepared them to apply these lessons in their own professional journeys.
“The discussions were remarkably insightful and creative, strengthening my belief that innovation flourishes through collaboration and focused effort. It was clear that the future leadership of ITI is not only capable but genuinely inspiring. Throughout these meetings and workshops, I have been particularly impressed by the caliber and diversity of our Future Leader candidates. They bring not only clinical and research expertise but also a genuine openness to learning, sharing, and collaboration.“
Gülce Çakmak
Mentorship in this program is truly a reciprocal journey, enriching both mentor and mentee alike. “As a mentor, I find great fulfillment in witnessing how these individuals absorb feedback, seek clarity, and take initiative,” said Gülce Çakmak.
A night on the Seine: Connections beyond the professional
The day concluded with the ITI Leadership Dinner aboard a beautiful bateau mouche, cruising along the Seine. As the boat made its way through Paris, participants witnessed leadership representatives from all 37 ITI Sections enjoying the evening—talking, laughing, exchanging ideas, and planning future collaborations.
It was a moment that encapsulated everything the ITI stands for: global connection, mutual support, and shared purpose. Under the Parisian sky, surrounded by historic landmarks and newfound friends, it was clear: this experience wasn’t just professional. It was personal, unforgettable, and deeply meaningful.
“As I reflect on these first days of the ITI Future Leaders experience, I’m filled with gratitude for the trust placed in us, for the inspiring individuals we met, and for the opportunity to grow within the world’s leading organization in implant dentistry. This is only the beginning, and I couldn’t be more excited about what lies ahead.“
Javier Calatrava
Looking ahead
The ITI Future Leaders Program marks a significant evolution in how professional organizations identify, develop, and support emerging talent. By taking a proactive approach to leadership development, the ITI is ensuring that the field of implant dentistry will continue to be guided by exceptional leaders who combine clinical excellence with visionary leadership.
As this inaugural cohort embarks on their journey, they carry with them not just the knowledge and skills developed through the program, but the responsibility to shape the future of implant dentistry for generations to come. The success of this program will be measured not just in individual achievements, but in the collective impact these leaders will have on advancing evidence-based implant dentistry worldwide.
“Witnessing the next generation of passionate professionals unite in their ambitions was deeply emotional, reinforcing the strong sense of community and support that defines the ITI. It was a powerful reminder of the organization’s lasting impact in shaping careers and fostering lifelong connections within the global implantology family.“
Gülce Çakmak
The future of implant dentistry leadership has never looked brighter, and the ITI Future Leaders Program is leading the way.
