Sat 20 September 2025 6:30 PM - 10:30 PM
Smiles and strength: A celebration of women in dentistry
Celebrating leadership, connection and storytelling
Join us for a special evening honouring the impact and achievements of women in dentistry.
This celebratory dinner features inspiring guest speakers who are shaping the future of the profession, along with a unique interactive performance by Melbourne Playback Theatre, bringing real stories to life through improvisational art.
Speakers
- Dr Mihiri Silva, A/Prof & Director of Research - Melbourne Dental School, University of Melbourne
- Dr Safinah Hambali, Principal Dentist and Practice Owner - Northvale Dental
- Dr Jo-Anne Cherry, General Dentist - Women in Dentistry
- Vanessa McRobert, Senior State Manager (VIC/TAS) - Henry Schein
- Q & A panel discussion
Melbourne Playback Theatre
Melbourne Playback Theatre transforms real stories into improvised performances. Guided by a skilled facilitator, audience stories are brought to life by professional actors and musicians—creating a memorable and deeply connecting experience.
Reflect, build connections, and celebrate the strength and diversity of women in dentistry.
All members and guests welcome!
SOLD OUT!!
Proudly sponsored by 
Please note: Photographs will be taken at this event and may be used on the ADAVB website, social media or publications to promote ADAVB events and ADAVB membership. Please advise [email protected] if you do not wish to be photographed.
Schedule
Speakers
Dr Mihiri Silva, A/Prof & Director of Research Melbourne Dental School, University of Melbourne
Dr Mihiri Silva is a paediatric dentist with a career spanning teaching, research, and clinical practice. She is an Associate Professor and Director of Research at the Melbourne Dental School, University of Melbourne; Consultant and Research Lead in the Department of Dentistry at the Royal Children's Hospital; and a Clinician-Scientist Fellow at the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute. Mihiri brings a deep commitment to improving children's oral health through evidence-based care, education, and research.
Dr Safinah Hambali, Principal Dentist and Practice owner - Northvale Dental
Dr Safinah Hambali is the Principal Dentist and Practice Owner of Northvale Dental. After completing her Doctor of Dental Surgery from The University of Melbourne in 2016, she made her dream come true by opening her start-up private practice in 2020 in the Melbourne suburb of Northcote. Dr Safinah is proud to be leading a young all-female dental team that share the same values and passion for patient centred care.
As Northvale Dental approaches its 5th Birthday this October, Dr Safinah will share her biggest lessons and her growth from her journey of practice ownership as a young, Muslim, woman of colour.
Dr Jo-Anne Cherry, General Dentist - Women in Dentistry
Dr Jo-Anne Cherry graduated with a BDSc from the University of Melbourne in 1980. For two years, she worked in public dental clinics, followed by three years in private general practice in Singapore. In 1987, she began working with Dr Mary Miller in Melbourne’s CBD and continues to work part-time at the practice, now known as Women in Dentistry. Dr Cherry has enjoyed a fulfilling career caring for patients long term in a supportive and well-managed environment.
In 1990, Dr Cherry began demonstrating to dental students at the University of Melbourne Dental School and continues to teach in the preclinical laboratories.
Her involvement with the Australian Dental Association Victorian Branch (ADAVB) began with ten years on the Infection Control Committee, followed by service on the Continuing Professional Development Committee. She was elected to the ADAVB Council in 2010 and served as Branch President in 2013/2014. In recognition of her contributions, Dr Cherry received the ADAVB Award for Distinguished Service in 2022 and currently serves on the Honours and Awards Committee.
