The AOG is committed to working for ‘the greater good’.
It was originally formed by a group of dental students who shared a similar history of hardships, and so was created both for the social aspect and as a source of peer review and support.
Today, the AOG’s members come from all ages and backgrounds, and they work together to organise charitable events throughout the year.
These include summer BBQs, annual balls and international conferences, all designed to raise awareness and provide both AOG members and non-members with the opportunity to contribute and show their support.
Harpreet Khambay has been involved with the AOG in one way or another for some time, has been a full member for a year, and is currently on the organisation’s committee.
She said: ‘I have attended AOG functions since I was a student, as my family have been connected to the organisation in the past. My interest in becoming a member came from the group’s dedication to give something back. By getting involved, I have gained a lot from meeting so many like-minded people.
‘The AOG provides equal opportunities to anyone who wants to get involved, bringing together people from a diverse range of backgrounds. As the AOG committee itself now includes people from all walks of life, there are always events to suit everyone, from the family BBQs to the adult annual balls.
‘These affairs also offer the chance for students to connect with leading dental professionals from around the world, creating a network of support and advice amongst practitioners of varied experience. This adds an educational element to the social occasions, while also opening the doors to help with charitable projects.
‘Other benefits of AOG membership from a dental perspective include access to the study groups, advice line, and information and guidance on post-graduate courses and career development.”
In addition to running activities in the UK, the AOG also offers members the chance to travel abroad and visit some of the places that it supports. Recent examples include a trip to the AOG Clinical Innovations Conference in Capetown, and a Conference and Charity tour to India last year.
Members of all ages and circumstances are using their dental skills to give back to communities both in the UK and abroad. No matter what point you have reached in your career, you can help ‘do good’ with the AOG.
For further details on forthcoming trips and events, or to join, visit www.aoguk.org.
