The faces and stories behind the technology
Why orthopaedic innovation is always personal – and how five extraordinary individuals will shape the I.S.P.O. World Congress in Stockholm.
From 16–19 June, the world’s largest gathering of prosthetics, orthotics, mobility and rehabilitation experts will take place at Stockholmsmässan. But behind the technology, science, and innovation lies something even more powerful: human experience. The I.S.P.O. 20th World Congress is not only a showcase for cutting-edge solutions. It is a stage for real people whose lives embody the transformative power of assistive technology.
This year’s theme — “Science in Practice, Practice in Science: Collaboration and innovation towards sustainable rehabilitation” — takes on new meaning when you meet the people behind the progress. We proudly present five powerful personal stories that will shape the congress — on stage, in the sessions, and in countless conversations. These individuals are not just participants — they are pioneers, users, creators, advocates.
Christoffer Lindhe (Sweden): From survival to self-determination
At 17, he lost both legs and an arm in a tragic accident. Today, Christoffer is a tech entrepreneur, Paralympian, and founder of a patient organization. He will open the congress with the IC2A Inspirational Lecture, sharing how innovation and lived experience can create opportunity.
Discover how Christoffer turns advertisy into impact
Lara Wilkin (Germany): Design, disability and empowerment
An artist and researcher living with a prosthesis and orthosis, Lara connects design, science, and human experience. At the congress, she’ll advocate for inclusion and share how assistive technology fuels both independence and creative expression.
Explore Lara's world of innovation
David Constantine (UK): From tragedy to global movement
After a diving accident left him in a wheelchair, David transformed his own experience into global impact. His organisation, Motivation, has delivered over 80,000 wheelchairs worldwide. As the President of ISPO he will officially open the congress and set the tone for a people-centred future in rehabilitation.
Learn more about David's mission
Subhash Sinha (India): Innovation where it’s needed most
Working in some of the world’s most remote areas, Subhash brings prosthetic and orthotic services to regions others cannot reach. At the I.S.P.O. World Congress, he will present on building sustainable education systems for low-resource settings.
Follow Subhash to the frontlines of global rehabilitation
Kenth Ringström (Sweden): Walking again, dreaming again
A brain haemorrhage left Kenth unable to walk for years. Today, thanks to a computer-controlled orthosis, he’s back on his feet — and dreaming again. He stands for the silent revolution that orthotic support can bring to everyday lives.
Why these stories matter
Orthopaedic treatment and care is not niche. It is public health, it is inclusion, it is innovation — and it could touch any of us at any moment. Behind every medical device is not only an engineering challenge, but a human being searching for independence, dignity, and participation. These five individuals remind us that assistive technology is never just about function — it’s about freedom.
Join us in Stockholm – and meet them in person
All five will be present at the I.S.P.O. 20th World Congress 2025 — as speakers, contributors, participants. They are also available for media interviews upon request. More background material and contact details can be provided.
Apply for full media accreditation here .
Accredited journalists will receive full access to all congress and exhibition areas on all event days.
About the congress and exhibition
From 16 to 19 June, Stockholm will become the world capital of assistive technology and rehabilitation. The I.S.P.O. 20th World Congress will bring together more than 3,000 international professionals, featuring over 600 presenters and 150+ sessions.
The accompanying international trade exhibition will feature 190 exhibitors from 33 countries, showcasing innovations in prosthetics, orthotics, digital manufacturing, robotics, therapeutic equipment and more.
Venue: Stockholmsmässan, Scandinavia’s largest exhibition and congress centre
Further information
About the I.S.P.O. World Congress and the International Society for Prosthetics and Orthotics (ISPO)
