Cochrane's flagship event, the Cochrane Colloquium,  brings together anyone with an interest in the use of evidence in healthcare decision-making to learn, collaborate, and network. The impact of the Cochrane Colloquium goes beyond the scientific program. For many attendees, it is a life-changing experience that inspires them, connects them with like-minded individuals, and broadens their perspectives.

We already collect stories from the Cochrane Community about how they got involved with Cochrane. This edition of  #MyCochraneStory invites anyone who attended a past Cochrane Colloquium to share their personal stories and reflections on the event. Whether you have a favourite Colloquium moment, a connection you made,  or something you're proud of presenting  - we want to hear from you! 

To share your #MyCochraneStory please contact Lydia Parsonson - lparsonson@cochrane.org - with the following:

• 1-4 photos from past Colloquiums. Please provide a caption for each photo you share. We'll be sharing them as a collage in the news item but may like to share them individually with some context on social media. 
• Your country of residence: Our community is diverse and we want to celebrate this!
• Your Cochrane Story: We want to hear about what your favourite Colloquium memories are and what you think makes the event memorable. 
• Social media handles: We will give your Twitter or Instagram account a tag; just let us know your handles!

Richard Morley - "Patients, caregivers and the public (what Cochrane calls consumers) are an integral part of the Cochrane...as well at the Colloquium! I remember the first Patients Included certified event in Edinburgh, and it was an incredibly meaningful and special experience for everyone involved. Patients, advocates, and caregivers felt truly included, and attendees were able to see the direct impact of their work. It's with great pride that I share that this year's Colloquium will be a Patients Included certified event for the second time. This means that patients and caregivers will be actively involved in shaping the program, and that their perspectives and needs will be fully considered throughout the event. It's a true testament to Cochrane's commitment to putting patients at the centre of everything we do, and I can't wait to see the positive impact it will have on all attendees!"

Sabrina Khamissa - "As Cochrane's Event Support Officer, what strikes me most about the Colloquium is the personal touches the host organizing team adds to make it special. From traditional dances to local cuisine, the team highlights the host country's culture, making the event more than just a typical academic conference. This year, I'm excited to see the small details the team has added to decrease the conference's environmental impact, such as venue choice and offering vegetarian food options. The Cochrane Colloquium is a unique opportunity to connect with the evidence synthesis community, learn from experts, and be part of an event that values diversity and sustainability."

Muriah Umoquit - "In 2015, I attended my first Cochrane Colloquium in Vienna with the expectation of a typical academic conference. But I was pleasantly surprised by the unique and inspiring experience that awaited me! From the large plenary sessions to smaller research presentations and poster halls, each Colloquium has something for everyone. More than that, it provides opportunities to connect with experts in evidence synthesis, feel part of the Cochrane Community, and engage in social activities that showcase the host country's culture. As a remote worker, I found it meaningful to connect with people whom I normally only exchange emails with or tag on social media. Everyone is enthusiastic, friendly, and proud to contribute to Cochrane's important work. The Anne Anderson Walk is a beloved tradition that I look forward to at each Colloquium. It's an event where we tour the host city, have some social time, and raise money for the special Anne Anderson Prize. If you're looking for a conference that's more than just another ordinary event, the Cochrane Colloquium in London this year is not to be missed!"

 To share your #MyCochraneStory, please contact Lydia Parsonson - lparsonson@cochrane.org - with the following:

• 1-4 photos from past Colloquiums. Please provide a caption for each photo you share. We'll be sharing them as a collage in the news item but may like to share them individually with some context on social media. 
• Your country of residence: Our community is diverse and we want to celebrate this!
• Your Cochrane Story: We want to hear about what your favourite Colloquium memories are and what you think makes the event memorable.
  Social media handles: We will give your Twitter or Instagram account a tag; just let us know your handles!