Final Candidate List
Following the close of the candidacy review period, we are pleased to announce the final slate of candidates for the 2026 ESSTS Board Elections.
(listed in alphabetical order by surname)
Chair
Vice-Chair
- Elia Abi-Jaoude
- Osman Malik
- Natalia Szejko
Secretary
- Elia Abi-Jaoude
- Laavanya Damodaran
Treasurer
- Elia Abi-Jaoude
- Laavanya Damodaran
In accordance with the Society's statutes, our current Chair, Nanette Mol Debes, will automatically serve as Past Chair for the 2026–2029 term following the election.
Detailed candidate statements, including professional affiliations, experience, and vision for ESSTS, are available in the PDF document below.
A Note of Appreciation
We wish to acknowledge Christelle Nilles, who initially submitted her candidacy for Secretary/Treasurer but has chosen to withdraw to create opportunities for new colleagues to join the Board. Her decision reflects the collaborative spirit that defines ESSTS and exemplifies the thoughtful leadership she has demonstrated throughout her term as Secretary. We are grateful for her service and her commitment to the Society's continued renewal and growth.
Christelle will continue her work as Podcaster in Chief for our "Gilles is in the air" series, where she brings the voices and insights of the Tourette Syndrome community to our members and beyond.
Next Steps
- Publication of final materials
The definitive candidate list, together with individual vision and mission statements, will also be made available via email to all active ESSTS members.
- Voting Period: 18–19 June 2026
Voting will commence at the General Assembly in Ljubljana and remain open for 24 hours. All active ESSTS members are eligible to vote via our secure, anonymous e-voting system, enabling both in-person and remote participation.
- Results Announcement: 19 June 2026
Election results will be announced during the closing ceremony and published on the ESSTS website.
Elected officers will serve a three-year term.
Voting Rules & Procedures ⚠️
Please also consult this document, which provides detailed information about eligibility, ballot structure, and the voting process.
For questions about the election process, please contact us at elections@essts.org
In addition to the submitted candidate statements, you may also view their respective CVs.
Elia Abi-Jaoude, Laavanya Damodaran, Osman Malik, Natalia Szejko