Sheila Li, communications director of the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (BACD), speaks about her passion for the profession and the career path that led her to where she is today, “I was first drawn to dentistry because I knew I wanted to follow a career path that would allow me to make a real difference. Dentistry particularly appealed because I know how powerful a smile can be – the way a smile looks has such a huge impact on people’s confidence. I realised that I wanted to help people embrace this confidence and transform their lives, it’s one of the main reasons why I still love my career to this day!”
After achieving a first-class honours degree in biomedical sciences, Sheila set her sights on pursuing a career in dentistry, qualifying as a dentist at King’s College London. Following this, she was awarded a master’s degree in aesthetic medicine at Queen Mary University of London.
During her studies, Sheila discovered the BACD and has been a member ever since, “I became a student member of the BACD in 2012 after finding out about the academy from the current president, Simon Chard. Later that year, I became a student representative. For the last ten years, I’ve been on various committees within the academy, with a goal to promote excellence, ethical practice and education in cosmetic dentistry.”
Now, Sheila has joined the board of directors, taking on the role of communications director, “I’m super excited to be taking on the role of BACD communications director. The academy has been pivotal to my entire career, and without membership I never would’ve been able to take advantage of the job opportunities, connections and courses that have led to where I am today. The BACD gives members the key to excellent educational resources, unparalleled networking opportunities and so much more. It’s really an organisation that cares for everyone.
“In my new role, I hope to inspire and encourage other professionals to see what the BACD is all about. I want to raise awareness of the academy within the wider profession and make clear how beneficial becoming a member is to everyone who has an interest in cosmetic dentistry, regardless of their role in the dental team.”
So, why join the BACD? Sheila comments, “It’s an invaluable organisation to join for anybody interested in cosmetic dentistry and to simply have the ability to connect with like-minded individuals can be career changing for professionals of all experience levels.
“The courses you take, the lifelong friends you make – these are all priceless elements to not only succeeding in the world of cosmetic dentistry, but making it a career that has so much value. I love being part of the BACD and think that by becoming a member, everyone can excel and take their career to the next level.”
Today, Sheila is a multi-award-winning cosmetic dentist with a special interest in aesthetic medicine. She runs her own training academy and is a mentor and trainer to dentists in aesthetic medicine. She helps clinicians to incorporate injectables into their daily practice with confidence and predictability and also guest lectures at the Queen Mary University of London. Reflecting on her career, Shelia said, “I’ve realised that one of my main passions is teaching others. By running my own training academy, I can help fellow clinicians to discover how to embrace aesthetic medicine to take their careers to new heights. Without the BACD, who knows where my career would be today? It’s a fantastic organisation and one which only continues to become more and more exceptional as the years go by. I’m honoured to be part of something special and can’t wait to see what’s coming next!”
The BACD is open to the whole dental team and offers a selection of membership types to appeal to every professional. This way, the academy ensures that everyone with an interest in cosmetic dentistry has a chance to keep up-to-date with the field, discover innovations and connect with people who share their passion. Plus, with high-quality educational resources available, events headlined by world-class speakers and plenty of other opportunities to get involved, the BACD ensures that members have everything they need to flourish.
For more information visit www.bacd.com