AO Spine Youth Club at the GSC 2026 in Istanbul
Something special is taking shape within AO Spine. What began as a shared idea among young, motivated surgeons has grown into a dynamic global community. The AO Spine Youth Club has evolved from a vision into a true professional home for the next generation of spine surgeons.
Since the first conversations and in-person meetings at the AO Davos Courses in December 2024, the community has expanded significantly in size, ambition, and influence. Young surgeons from across the world have joined, united by shared interests, common challenges, and a genuine commitment to learning and supporting one another. In 2026, that energy continues in Istanbul at the Global Spine Congress (GSC), where the SYC will take part with more activities than ever before.
A growing community with a clear purpose
The AO Spine Youth Club is built on a simple belief: young surgeons develop best when they grow together. Its mission is to connect early-career spine surgeons across regions, encourage learning alongside experienced experts, and create an environment where the next generation can build confidence, skills, and networks that last.
To join this remarkable group, go to myAO 2.0 and join the AO Spine Youth Club Community to find out how to get involved.
At the GSC in Istanbul, this mission comes to life through three dedicated events, including, for the first time, a full pre-course created specifically for young surgeons.
Three events, one unmissable week
AO Spine Youth Club Pre-Course: Present and Future of Young Spine Surgeons
Wednesday, May 27, 2026, from 1:00–5:00 PM local time | Room 4
New for 2026, this dedicated pre-course marks an important milestone for the SYC. Designed exclusively for young spine surgeons, it focuses on where the specialty is headed and what it means to shape a career in spine surgery today. The session offers space to reflect, exchange experiences, and look ahead together, even before the congress officially begins.
Science Slam at AO SYC Breakfast Session
Saturday, May 30, 2026, from 7:00–8:00 AM local time | Room 3
Science thrives when it is shared, and even more so when it is engaging. The AO SYC Science Slam brings young spine surgeons together over breakfast to present their research in a lively and informal setting. It highlights curiosity, creativity, and the ideas that will shape the future of spine surgery.
The best presentation will receive one of the AO SYC Awards, but every contribution and every voice in the room counts.
AO Spine Youth Club Awards
Saturday, May 30, 2026, from 9:00–10:00 AM local time | Theatre
This session is an opportunity to be recognized within a community that actively supports and encourages its members. The AO Spine Youth Club Awards celebrate excellence, commitment, and emerging leadership among young spine surgeons.
To learn more about the AO Spine Youth Club, please visit the website.
