Bruna Velosa Ferreira: Lessons in Leadership, Mentorship, and Humanity from EHA 2026
Bruna Velosa Ferreira, Hematologist at the Champalimaud Clinical Center, shared a post on LinkedIn:
“One of the most memorable moments of EHA 2026 for me was seeing Professor Claire Harrison receive recognition for her outstanding contributions to hematology.
Throughout her career, Professor Harrison has not only advanced the field through research and clinical leadership, but has also helped shape generations of hematologists around the world.
What struck me most was the humility and wisdom of her acceptance speech. Rather than focusing on achievements, she spoke about courage, community, collaboration, mentorship, friendship, and the importance of listening to patients.
Her ‘Notes to my younger self’ were powerful reminders:
- Be brave enough to start, even when you don’t know where the journey will lead.
- Build communities, not projects.
- Listen to patients.
- Find great people, trust them, and help them shine.
- Collaboration achieves more than determination alone.
- Be patient and keep going.
- Celebrate the friendships you make along the way.
- Remember that lasting change is always a team effort.
More than a decade ago, as a visiting fellow, I had the privilege of working alongside Professor Harrison and her team.
Despite her many responsibilities, she took the time to meet with me individually, discuss my aspirations, challenge me to think about my future, and encourage me to explore new possibilities.
What I remember most is not only her scientific excellence, but her generosity.
She made me feel valued, trusted, and part of the team from day one.
Looking back, I realize that she was already practicing the kind of mentorship she described in her speech today.
That confidence, placed in a young visiting fellow, gave me new perspectives and helped shape the direction of my career in ways I still appreciate today.
Congratulations, Professor Harrison, on this well-deserved recognition, and thank you for the inspiration you continue to provide to the hematology community.”
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