Building Momentum Across Borders: Highlights from Naevus Global and GlobalSkin Conferences

CMN Patient Representatives together at the Naevus Global Conference

In April 2025, representatives from CMN organizations across nine countries gathered in Prague for an in-person meeting of Naevus Global, an international network of patient representatives committed to enhancing the lives of those affected by CMN. Held just before the GlobalSkin Conference, this two-day gathering offered a valuable opportunity to strengthen relationships, refine global strategy, and share knowledge across borders. Both Executive Director Lauren Isbell and Director of Membership Whitney Casal were able to attend and represent Nevus Outreach, thanks to GlobalSkin’s generous support.

Strength in Coordination

Naevus Global has evolved steadily since its founding, with recent efforts focused on defining a clear direction and structure for the organization. The Prague meeting opened with a renewed mission and vision, informed by work initiated at the 2024 gathering. These guiding principles emphasize equity, transparency, and collaboration — all key to building a cohesive and effective global network.

Patient advocates also presented recent initiatives, shared best practices, and upcoming projects. From patient conferences to school-based awareness programs, and from research breakthroughs to organizational growth, each presentation offered insight into what’s working — and where others might adapt or collaborate. These exchanges reinforced the value of cross-border learning in a space where resources, clinical experience, and social support can vary widely from country to country.

The Value of Being in the Same Room

There’s a kind of clarity that emerges when people doing similar work in different contexts can speak directly and share openly. The challenges facing CMN communities are real, but when we connect globally, we see patterns, identify opportunities, and build momentum that wouldn’t be possible in isolation.

It was especially meaningful to have individuals from both established and emerging organizations in the same room. Mentorship, encouragement, and exchange of materials and methods flowed naturally — with experienced advocates offering guidance and newer voices bringing fresh perspectives.

At Nevus Outreach, we view international collaboration as essential — not just an aspiration, but a practical necessity in the rare disease space. The Prague meeting was a meaningful step in advancing shared goals, including patient advocacy, awareness and education, and the development of research infrastructure for CMN.

Lauren and Whitney at the 2025 GlobalSkin Conference "CHAMPION"

Following the Naevus Global meeting, Lauren and Whitney joined patient leaders and industry partners from around the world at the GlobalSkin Conference, held April 24–27 in Prague.

This event, hosted by the International Alliance of Dermatology Patient Organizations (also known as GlobalSkin), brought together almost 300 delegates representing rare, chronic, and serious skin conditions across the world. The conference offered a valuable platform to exchange ideas, build partnerships, and advocate for stronger patient engagement in research and policy.

For Nevus Outreach, the conference reinforced the importance of aligning with the broader dermatology and rare skin communities. We connected with fellow advocates, researchers, and healthcare stakeholders, sharing insights from our work and learning from others tackling similar challenges.

A group of patient advocates collaborating at the GlobalSkin RareDERM Summit

We were especially encouraged by sessions focused on equitable access to care, the role of patient voices in shaping research agendas, spotlight on the need for increased mental health resources, and strategies for building sustainable organizations. These themes strongly align with our current priorities — particularly as we continue to grow our international partnerships through Naevus Global.

As always, we’re grateful for the opportunity to represent the CMN community on the global stage and bring back fresh ideas and energy to our work. Events like GlobalSkin remind us that, while our condition may be rare, we are not alone. Together, we are part of a growing movement to ensure all dermatology patients are seen, heard, and supported.

Whitney Casal opening the 2025 GlobalSkin Conference with her Creative Expression Award Submission, original poem titled, "Through All Seasons"