On 8 August 2024, the Brain Tumor and Translational Neurosciences Centre (BTC@UP) hosted a unique networking event at the University of Pretoria's Future Africa Campus. This event served as a crucial platform to foster collaboration within the field of neurosciences by highlighting ongoing projects and sparking discussions on potential future initiatives. The goal was to create meaningful connections between basic and clinical sciences, thus advancing translational research.

The day commenced with an inspiring welcome address by Professor Llewellyn Padayachy, Head of the Neurosurgery Department at Steve Biko Academic Hospital and Director of BTC@UP. Professor Padayachy emphasised the importance of collaboration in driving innovative research that can translate into improved patient outcomes.

Following the welcome, attendees participated in dynamic and thought-provoking roundtable
discussions centered around the three core research pillars of the BTC:

1. Early Detection and Epidemiology
2. Surgical and Adjunctive Modalities; Neurorehabilitation and Neurocritical Care
3. Translational Neuroscience

The unique structure of the event allowed for discussions to rotate across these themes, enabling all participants to contribute to topics aligned with their interests. This inclusive format encouraged lively debates and the exchange of ideas, laying the groundwork for future collaborations.

The event attracted a diverse group of attendees, ranging from undergraduate students to professors, and representing a broad spectrum of fields including engineering, radiology, neurosurgery, anatomy, physiology, pediatric neurology, and more. This diversity in both expertise and experience enriched the discussions and provided a fertile ground for developing cross-disciplinary partnerships aimed at bridging the gap between basic research and clinical applications.

The event also underscored the collaboration between different departments and institutions with the centre. These partnerships have been instrumental in advancing various postgraduate projects, with even more initiatives on the horizon. Two MSc students from the Department of Physiology presented their research, highlighting the impactful work emerging from this ongoing collaboration.

The program was expertly coordinated by Professor Janette Bester from the Department of Physiology, ensuring that the event ran smoothly and successfully. As the day concluded, it was clear that the networking opportunities provided had not only strengthened existing relationships but also paved the way for new collaborations that will drive the future of translational neuroscience research.