KBIF at the ASSBI/NZSIGN Conference – May 2026

The Australian Society for the Study of Brain Impairment (ASSBI) held its first joint international conference with the New Zealand Special Interest Group in Neuropsychology (NZSIGN) in Christchurch, New Zealand, in May 2026.

The conference theme, Te Whiri Ī Te Ara Ki Te Whakaora – Weaving Pathways to Recovery, reflected a collective commitment to advancing recovery journeys after brain injury through connection, collaboration and inclusivity.

At a time when the field of acquired brain injury rehabilitation continues to expand rapidly, the conference highlighted the importance of integrating evidence-based practice with a deep appreciation of the diverse social, cultural and environmental contexts that shape recovery. It also aimed to strengthen the voice of lived experience and support professional development to promote the best possible treatment and care.

Dr Mohamed Sakel, Chair of the Kent Brain Injury Forum, and Professor Karen Saunders were invited to contribute two oral platform presentations, a Datablitz session and two posters.

These comprise the following:

How to use Magnetic Resonance Diffusion Tensor Imaging for traumatic brain injury in medico-legal and clinical practice? Case examples from medico-legal practitioners in England – Oral presentation
Dr Mohamed Sakel, Professor Karen Saunders, Warren Collins and Pankaj Madan

Journeys of recovery after surviving a moderate to severe traumatic brain injury – Oral presentation
Professor Karen Saunders

Acute Traumatic Brain Injury Diagnosis and Rehabilitation: Global perspectives – Datablitz/Poster
Dr Mohamed Sakel, Professor Karen Saunders and Dr/Professor MA Shakoor

Medico-legal perspectives on the use of MR DTI in traumatic brain injury: An interdisciplinary review – Poster
Dr Mohamed Sakel, Professor Karen Saunders, Warren Collins and Pankaj Madan