Celebrating leading ADAVB women - Dr Kaya Kapusta

International Women's Day may be over, but we have so many wonderful leading women that make up the ADAVB, that we're continuing our celebration profiles this week. We spoke to Dr Kaya Kapusta, Victorian Representative on ADA's Recent Graduates Advisory Panel and Vice Co-Chair of the ADAVB Recent Graduates and Students Committee (RGSC). 

What motivated you to study dentistry? Have you ever been constrained by perceptions about what women ‘can’t’ do?
I always wanted to work in the health sciences, particularly in a job which has a surgical component, and a lot of interaction with other people. The flexibility in the hours appealed to me over shift work or being on call. Dentistry fits everything I wanted in a career, and it’s a unique mix of creativity and science, which I really enjoy.
Hard work and perseverance have always been emphasised to me as the keys to achieve success, with gender having no bearing on it. Throughout my time at university in particular, I had the opportunity to meet so many passionate, driven and accomplished women who further encouraged to seize opportunities that came my way.

Describe some of the inspiring women in your life that have made an impact on you. 
My mum is the first woman that comes to mind. She is driven, intelligent and carries herself with integrity. She is an overseas trained medical doctor who completed her GP training in Australia while raising a family, and through her example she has taught me strength and resilience, and has shown me that with perseverance and determination there are no barriers to what you can achieve.
I’ve also been fortunate to have a mentor since my final year of dentistry who has shaped my perspective of the profession. Not only has she been a limitless source of knowledge and guidance regarding the profession, she has helped ignite my passion for my career. Most importantly, she has shown me that you can have a successful, fulfilling and exciting life outside of dentistry while your career flourishes!

What influenced you to join an ADAVB Committee? Have you been involved in other committees or ADAVB programs?
During my time at university, I had the opportunity to experience the benefits and support provided by mentoring and collegiality among dental professionals and peers.

I joined the ADAVB RGSC in the same year I graduated (2017). The RGSC does a great job in facilitating the transition to the dental profession from university, which can be a difficult and daunting time. I also wanted to be a voice for recent graduates and help the ADAVB address and overcome the challenges and demands they face within the early stages of their career.

In addition to my role with the RGSC, I am also the Victorian Representative of the ADA Recent Graduates Advisory Panel, and have taken part in ADAVB programs such as the Mentoring Program in my first year after graduation.

Tell us about where you see your leadership journey taking you.
I would like to continue being an active part of the ADA through various committees, and to continue advocating for the members of the dental profession. I would also like to take up mentoring and teaching roles in the future, as these are two areas I am particular passionate about.

Describe some of the highlights of your role as Vice Co-Chair of the RGS Committee or what you are looking forward to.
My favourite aspect by far has been organising events and initiatives for students and recent graduates. Events like the ADAVB cocktail party are a great way to get everyone more involved, not just with the ADAVB, but also the wider dentistry community. And the chance to catch up with peers, when it’s so easy to lose contact with each other, is just as important! 

What do you say to women considering a taking the step into leadership with the ADAVB?
Absolutely do it! There are so many different opportunities available for leadership within the ADAVB that you can find something that you are passionate about. It’s a great way for your voice to be heard, and to form networks within the community.

Further information

Contact a councillor: council.adavb.org

Contact a committee member: adavb.net

Nominate for a committee role (ADAVB login required): adavb.net

Nominate for the Health Sector Leadership Program: hslp.adavb.org

Apply for the ADAVB BOQ Specialist $10,000 Practice Bursary or $5000 Recent Graduate CPD Bursary: bursary.adavb.org

Find your ADAVB Regional Group: adavb.net