The Gift of Donor Human Milk

The European Milk Bank Association (EMBA) is very pleased to invite you to the first webinar of the 2026 series organized in collaboration with Medela Medical Affairs. 

Join us for a powerful conversation between expert neonatologist Prof. Daniel Klotz and anthropologist Prof. Tanya Cassidy in a live session that will bring together two complementary perspectives to explore how neonatal care can advance when clinical excellence and deeply human experience are equally valued.

Please see below the agenda and share this invitation with the members of your organization or local network. This session will be chaired by EMBA President, Prof. Clair-Yves Boquien (France), and attendees will be able to participate asking questions in the final discussion session.

Click here for FREE REGISTRATION!

THE GIFT OF DONOR HUMAN MILK: Overcoming Clinical Barriers While Recognizing Parental Roles in Neonatal Care

📅 Date: June 9th⏰ Time: 3:00 PM CEST / 9:00 AM EST USA📍 Format: LIVE SESSION ENGLISH

Agenda:

🎙️ Moderator:
Prof. Clair-Yves Boquien, PhD, EMBA – President, France

📌 Agenda:

·       Clinical Aspects of Milk Donation: Overcoming Barriers and Shaping Solutions in Neonatal Care – Prof. Daniel Klotz

Prof. Daniel Klotz will explore the global landscape of human milk banking, its proven impact on neonatal outcomes and the persistent barriers that limit access. From policy gaps and logistics to donor recruitment and education, this session focuses on practical, evidence-based solutions and international collaboration to scale sustainable milk banking systems.

·       Parents at the Heart of Human Milk Donation: Voices of Donors and Recipients – Prof. Tanya M. Cassidy

Prof. Tanya M. Cassidy will share insights from over 20 years of international qualitative research with donor and recipient families. Through moving narratives, from bereaved mothers who donate in memory of their child to families relying on donor milk in the NICU, this talk explores the emotional, ethical, and relational dimensions that give donor milk its meaning.

Join us and invite your network to attend to reflect, learn, and help shape a future where donor human milk is accessible, ethical, and centered on families.

5th International Donor Milk Research Congress: Save the Date and Abstract Submission

September 25th, 2026 • Milan, Italy

The European Milk Banking Association (EMBA) is proud to announce the 5th International Donor Milk Research Congress, taking place in the beautiful city of Milan, Italy (BIOMEDIA via Libero Temolo 4, Milan, Italy) on September 25th, 2026.

About the Congress

Join us for this premier international gathering dedicated to advancing donor milk research and milk banking practices worldwide. This congress brings together researchers, clinicians, milk bank professionals, policymakers, and advocates to share the latest scientific findings, clinical innovations, and best practices in donor human milk.

The programme will include:

* Key updates from the EU-funded IMAGINE-HMB project

* Presentations highlighting recent advances in donor human milk research

* 12 short oral presentations selected through an open call

Abstract submissions are now open, and we warmly encourage members to submit their work and to share this opportunity within their professional networks.

Submission deadline: 15 July 2026

Application link: https://biomedia.net/16286/

Registration fees:

EMBA members € 30,00

Non members € 60,00

Online €30.00 (please note, online space is limited)

Why Attend?

• Cutting-Edge Research: Discover the latest scientific developments in donor milk composition, processing, and clinical applications

• Global Networking: Connect with leading experts and professionals from milk banks across Europe and around the world

• Knowledge Exchange: Share experiences, challenges, and solutions with colleagues working to improve access to safe donor milk

• Clinical Excellence: Learn about innovative approaches to milk banking operations and quality assurance

• Policy & Advocacy: Engage in discussions about expanding donor milk access and strengthening milk banking infrastructure

Who Should Attend?

• Neonatologists and pediatricians

• Milk bank directors and coordinators

• Lactation consultants and specialists

• Researchers in human milk science

• Hospital administrators

• Public health professionals

• Parent advocates and support organizations

Stay Connected

More information about registration, abstract submission, accommodation, and the scientific program will be announced soon.

Follow our updates and join us in Milan for this landmark event in donor milk research!