Kajetany, Poland — September 2024. Dr Hashir Aazh has been awarded the prestigious “Friends Forever” plaque by the World Hearing Centre in recognition of his scientific contributions and collaboration with the Institute of Physiology and Pathology of Hearing.

The “Friends Forever” initiative was launched in 1997 by Professor Henryk Skarżyński to honour individuals who have significantly supported the Centre’s mission to advance treatments for hearing disorders and improve quality of life for people with hearing impairment. The plaque, displayed at the entrance of the World Hearing Centre in Kajetany, celebrates distinguished scientists, artists, and public figures who have played a vital role in shaping the Institute’s global impact.

In September 2024, three internationally renowned experts were recognised:

• Dr Hashir Aazh — Affiliate Associate Professor at the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Florida Atlantic University (USA); Honorary Hearing Research Consultant at the Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust; Research Fellow at the University of Surrey; and Director of Hashir International Institute (London and Guildford).

• Professor Teresa Jackowska — Medical Director for Postgraduate Education in Warsaw, paediatrician, and specialist in paediatric oncology and haematology.

• Professor Milaine Dominici Sanfins — Audiologist and hearing researcher at the Federal University of São Paulo, Brazil.

The plaques were unveiled on 15 September 2024 during a ceremony held alongside three major international events in Warsaw: the 7th International Conference on Hyperacusis and Misophonia, the 59th Inner Ear Biology Workshop, and UCHO 2024 – National Conference on Paediatric ORL.

To learn more about the Institute of Physiology and Pathology of Hearing and their global initiatives in hearing health and research, visit their website: whc.ifps.org.pl.