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The International Psoriasis Council (IPC) extends our congratulations to all recipients of the 2025 Certificate of Appreciation from the International League of Dermatological Societies (ILDS). We are especially proud to recognize members of the IPC community who were honored for their outstanding contributions to dermatology leadership and humanitarianism.
IPC Board Member Mahira El Sayed Honored as a Humanitarian in Dermatology
Professor Mahira El Sayed of Cairo, Egypt, was nominated by IPC for the Humanitarian in Dermatology award, which honors individuals who dedicate their time and expertise to improving skin health in underserved communities through selfless, not-for-profit initiatives.
Professor El Sayed was recognized for her commitment to advancing dermatologic care. She serves as Professor of Dermatology and Venereology at Ain Shams University and chairs the IPC Skin of Color Working Group. Additionally, she leads the Egyptian Board of Dermatology, sits on the Board of the Egyptian Health Council, and contributes to the Ministry of Health’s Combined Committee for Biologics in psoriasis care. Through international lectures and numerous roles in national and global dermatology societies, her work extends beyond borders.
" I am deeply honored to receive this award as the recognition is not only personal but represents the commitment of so many people working alongside me to improve dermatologic care for those in need. I will remain committed to expanding access, education and equity in care." – Mahira El Sayed, Recipient of the ILDS CoA 2025 in Humanitarian Dermatology
IPC Councilor Victoria Guillano Honored as a Humanitarian in Dermatology
Dr. Victoria Guillano, nominated by the Philippine Dermatological Society, received recognition for her impactful work in patient education, advocacy, and access to care in the Philippines, particularly in underserved areas such as Mindanao.
A board-certified dermatologist and dermatopathologist, Dr. Guillano serves as Dean and Professor at the University of Southeastern Philippines School of Medicine. She leads the Psoriasis division of the Asian Society for Psoriasis, chairs the Dermatology Section at Davao Regional Medical Center, and serves as Psoriasis Core Consultant at the Southern Philippines Medical Center, where she mentors students and residents conducting psoriasis research. As president of the Psoriasis Foundation of the Philippines since 2015, she has championed national initiatives in patient education, registry development, and innovation in care delivery.
"Thank you for this meaningful recognition. It honors the communities I serve and strengthens my passion to keep going. This award is a reminder that even quiet efforts can make a difference, especially for patients in underserved areas like Mindanao." – Victoria P. Guillano, Recipient of the ILDS CoA 2025 in Humanitarian Dermatology
IPC Councilor Margarita Velásquez-Lopera Honored for International Leadership
Professor Margarita Velásquez-Lopera, nominated by the Colombian Association of Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery, was recognized for her leadership in medical education, research, and comprehensive care throughout Latin America.
Dr. Velásquez-Lopera is Professor and Head of Dermatology at the University of Antioquia in Medellín, Colombia, where she leads initiatives in immunodermatology research and clinical training. She has authored more than 90 publications on psoriasis, immunodeficiencies, and related conditions. In addition to co-authoring Colombia’s national clinical guidelines on psoriasis, she serves as a coordinator at the CIDERM Dermatological Research Center and as an active member of COLPSOR and the Latin American Group of Cutaneous Lymphomas. Her commitment to education and collaboration continues to shape the field across borders.
"I consider this first and foremost a recognition of Colombian dermatology, and I accept it with deep gratitude and pride. I dedicate it to my family, who are my inspiration and support, and to my students and my patients—they are the very reason for my professional work." – Margarita Velásquez-Lopera, Recipient of the ILDS CoA 2025 in International Leadership
The IPC congratulates Dr. El Sayed, Dr. Guillano, and Professor Velásquez-Lopera on this well-deserved recognition. As educators, researchers, and advocates, their work continues to elevate the standard of care and expand access to dermatologic treatment in regions where it’s needed most.
