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I recently had the opportunity to participate in the 22nd Congress of the International Society for Human and Animal Mycology (ISHAM), held in Iguaçu Falls, Brazil, from 20 to 24 May 2025. This global conference brought together basic scientists, clinicians, and public health experts working in medical mycology across human, animal, and agricultural sectors.

At the conference, I presented my research poster on mucormycosis. As my PhD research focuses on antimicrobial resistance (AMR), including antifungal resistance (AFR), this event provided a valuable platform for interdisciplinary dialogue. It not only showcased the latest scientific advancements but also fostered some initiative for future collaborations in the field of fungal infections and global health. In addition to receiving constructive feedback on my work, I had several productive discussions that helped me sharpen my methodological approach to studying the global governance of AFR.

Beyond my own presentation, I actively participated in a range of keynote lectures, panel discussions, and technical sessions, including preconference workshops. I focused particularly on themes such as the global burden of fungal diseases, drug-resistant fungal pathogens and antifungal development, One Health perspectives on AFR, and specific fungal conditions such as allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, fungal diseases among TB patients, and mucormycosis. These sessions broadened my understanding of the current challenges and innovations in medical mycology and introduced me to emerging diagnostic tools, treatment strategies, and interdisciplinary research models. Importantly, the discussions also highlighted the relative lack of policy attention to fungal diseases and AFR within the broader AMR framework—an area of critical importance to my ongoing work.

The visit to Brazil further offered valuable regional insights, especially into the epidemiology of fungal diseases in tropical climates. Several sessions emphasized local patterns of disease transmission, diagnostic gaps, and public health strategies in South America. These perspectives added depth to my understanding of the global nature of fungal threats and underlined the need for region-specific responses within global governance mechanisms.

In summary, attending the ISHAM 2025 Conference was an invaluable academic and professional experience. It contributed significantly to the development of my research, broadened my scientific and policy perspectives, and strengthened my international network across the human, animal, and environmental health sectors. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to participate and remain committed to applying the knowledge and connections gained to advance my work on antifungal resistance and global health governance.

"I sincerely thank DI for the timely and generous support provided through the travel grant, which enabled me to attend the ISHAM 2025 Conference. This support not only made my participation possible but also enriched my understanding of recent developments and emerging priorities in global health and the governance of antifungal resistance (AFR). I am truly grateful for this opportunity." - Kathirvel Soundappan

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