Bridging the Pond: Lessons and Connections from the 2025 NAAF Conference

At the end of June, I had the privilege of representing Alopecia UK at the 40th Annual National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF) Conference in Chicago. It was a vibrant and energising experience, bringing together over 670 attendees from across the United States and a small group of international guests, all united by our shared commitment to supporting people affected by alopecia. 

This conference was more than just a celebration of NAAF’s four-decade journey. It was an inclusive gathering of individuals, families, clinicians, researchers, and volunteers who understand what it means to live with alopecia. For me, it was also a valuable opportunity to connect with peers, exchange insights, and reflect on the ways our UK and US communities can learn from and support each other. 

The theme of connection ran through every moment of the week, from the structured strategy meetings to the impromptu conversations over coffee. I was warmly welcomed by NAAF’s CEO Nicole Friedland (pictured with me) and her team, and it was clear from the outset that we share many of the same challenges: raising awareness in health and public spheres, addressing health inequalities, and championing patient voices in a rapidly evolving treatment landscape.

While there are structural and cultural differences between our nations, particularly in healthcare funding and pharmaceutical company engagement, the common ground was unmistakable. Whether it was conversations about public perceptions of hair loss, gaps in psychological support, or the need to better understand quality of life impacts, I found myself nodding along, recognising many of the same issues we face here in the UK.

One of the standout moments was the opportunity to present Alopecia UK’s work to the NAAF Board. Their response was overwhelmingly positive, with a genuine interest in our volunteer model, our strategic goals, and how we’re navigating limited resources to deliver high impact. It was incredibly affirming and also a reminder that despite our size, we are the second largest alopecia charity, and our voice matters on the global stage.

I was also inspired by the strong sense of community woven throughout the NAAF conference. It reminded me of our own Big Weekend; a flagship event for Alopecia UK that brings together individuals, clinicians and researchers from across the UK for connection, support, and education. While the scale of NAAF’s conference reflected their larger footprint and funding model, the heart of what we’re both doing is remarkably similar: creating safe, empowering spaces where people with alopecia feel seen, supported, and celebrated. It reaffirmed for me just how special Alopecia UK’s Big Weekend is, and how valuable these gatherings are in building resilience and community. 

To Nicole, the NAAF team, and everyone who made this international guest feel so welcome, thank you. Your generosity, openness, and shared passion made this a trip I won’t forget. As we look to the future, I’m excited about the possibilities of deeper "across the pond" collaboration.

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