Scientific Program – Day 4
The final day of Congress continued to deliver a stimulating and informative program of seminars, paper presentations, workshops and panel discussions, culminating in the final keynote presentation for the Congress at 2.30pm.
Esteemed occupational therapist Dr Rachel Thibeault presented a paper titled ‘Occupational Therapists and Globalization: Critical Choices for a Congruent Practice’.
This speech was one of the most emotional, inspiring, and informative presentations delivered throughout the week.
In her presentation, Dr Thibeault explored how OT has increasing significance in a globalised world, and, sharing her own experiences, observed the challenges OTs will have to face in their daily lives as when their values and identity might be put to the test.
Dr Thibeault’s presentation concluded with the showing of an animated film titled ‘The Man Who Planted Trees’. This moving story of ‘occupational therapist extraordinaire’ Elzeard Bouffier beautifully illustrated how a single person armed with nothing but their own physical and moral resources can, through apparently small efforts, change the world.
In addition to leaving more than a few delegates reaching for their tissues, Dr Thibeault’s presentation gave everyone present hope, courage, and renewed commitment to our profession, and reinforced the vital role played by occupational therapy in a changing world.
A copy of Dr Thibeault’s presentation has been published in the September issue of the Australian OT Journal, and can be viewed online www.blackwell-synergy.com/loi/AOT.
DVDs of each of the Keynote Presentations are also available for purchase online from the WFOT Shop.
Visit the Photo Album for images of the Day 4 Keynote Address.
A full program of Papers/workshops/panels/forums and posters was presented today.