Lived Experience Hub

A calm, welcoming space for people with lived experience of rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease, their families and supporters.

Lived Experience Orientation

Before the Congress begins, a Lived Experience Orientation session will be held on Wednesday 11 November for attendees with lived experience of rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease, and their support people.

The session is a chance to meet others in a smaller group, get to know the venue, meet Congress buddies and find out what to expect over the Congress, including where to find the plain English summaries in the Congress app.

Places are limited, so please register through the Special Sessions page on the Congress website.

A place to connect, create and recharge

People with lived experience of rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease are at the heart of the World Congress on Rheumatic Heart Disease 2026.

The Lived Experience Hub is a dedicated space within the Congress where people with lived experience, their families and supporters can take a break from the busy Congress environment, connect with others, enjoy a quiet activity or simply take some time out.

Designed to be calm, welcoming and flexible, the Hub gives people choice over how they use the space. There is no expectation to participate in activities or share personal experiences. Delegates are welcome to drop in throughout the Congress, stay for as little or as long as they like, spend time alone or connect with others. Comfortable lounge seating will be available alongside tea, coffee, water, snacks and refreshments throughout the day, creating a place where delegates can step away and recharge when they need to.

What's happening in the Hub?

Throughout the Congress, the Hub will offer a range of relaxed, self-guided activities designed to encourage creativity, connection and quiet time.

Origami, jewellery and keychain making

Create a bracelet or keychain to take home, or sit alongside others for a relaxed activity and conversation.

Collaborative colouring mural

Add your own colour to a shared artwork that will grow and change throughout the Congress. It is a simple way to contribute something to the space, or spend a few quiet moments creating.

Puzzles and quiet games

Take some downtime with puzzles and board games. Join someone else, start something that others can continue, or enjoy some quiet time on your own.

Share your thoughts

A collaborative reflection board will invite delegates to contribute ideas and messages during the Congress. Prompts may explore questions such as what gives you hope for the future of RHD? and what should decision-makers hear from lived experience?

Sound healing session

A dedicated sound healing session with Ken Hayward will also form part of the Hub program, providing another opportunity to pause and recharge during the Congress.

Conversations and Connections

The Hub will be open to people with lived experience of RHD, and their support people, throughout the entire Congress.

The Hub will open its doors to all Congress delegates to connect with people with lived experience at the following dedicated times:

Friday 13 November, 1pm–2pm
Saturday 14 November, 11:30am–12:30pm and 3:30pm–4pm

Come as you are

There is no right way to use the Lived Experience Hub.

Attendees are welcome to come in for a cup of tea, sit quietly for ten minutes, join activities, use the Hub as a meeting space or simply find a comfortable place away from the busy pace of the Congress.