Dr Lena Lejmanoski was awarded a Distinguished Service Award for her contribution to the dental community.
Dr Lena Lejmanoski has been passionate about giving back to the dental community for decades.
Giving back to the Association
Lena has always been a very active member of the Association, having served as a Councillor for ADAWA, Chair of ADAWA’s Oral Health Committee, Federal Representative for the WA Branch on the Oral Health Committee, Federal Chair of the Oral Health Committee, and Convenor of Continuing Professional Development.
“I initially put my hand up to be the State Chair of the Oral Health Committee because I’ve always believed in the power of prevention in dentistry and the importance of oral health as a fundamental part of overall health,” Lena recalls.
“Having worked as a clinician both in the public and private sectors, I saw firsthand how much of the disease burden could be avoided with better education, policy, and access. Taking on a leadership role within the ADAWA gave me an opportunity to advocate for systemic changes, influence public health messaging, and contribute to shaping the direction of oral health at a strategic level.
“It was also important to me to represent the voice of dental professionals and the community when it came to state-level oral health policy. I saw it as a chance to bring together evidence, professional insight, and practical experience to help the committee drive meaningful outcomes.”
Pregnancy, Babies and Children’s Expo
Lena has been instrumental as both an organiser and participant at the Pregnancy, Babies and Children’s Expo, on behalf of ADAWA for over 14 years. “It has been an extremely rewarding and community-focused experience that became a highlight of my oral health advocacy work,” she says.
“I was involved with many initiatives in disseminating information and education about oral health to the public; this event however provided a unique and valuable opportunity to engage directly with thousands of parents, caregivers, and young families in an informal and approachable setting.
“What has made this experience especially meaningful was the genuine impact we could have in a short interaction — empowering parents with confidence, correcting misinformation. It is also a great reminder of the role we play as health professionals outside the clinic — in community spaces where prevention truly begins.”
Lena’s long-term participation at this expo also expanded to her giving lectures to midwives and doctors at King Edward Memorial Hospital regarding oral health in pregnancy and after birth.
Practical Oral Surgery course
This year marks the 20-year anniversary of the Practical Oral Surgery course, in which Lena has been the Course organiser/conveyer (see Edition 1, 2025 of the Western Articulator), and she says reaching this milestone is both humbling and deeply gratifying. “It’s a testament to the course’s enduring relevance, the quality of its content, and the commitment of everyone who has contributed over the years — from the presenters to the many participants who brought their energy, curiosity, and passion for learning,” she says.
“When this course was first developed, the aim was simple: to bridge the gap between theory and clinical practice, and to give general dentists the confidence and practical skills needed to manage oral surgery procedures safely and competently in their own practices. Seeing that mission not only fulfilled but sustained and continually evolving two decades later is incredibly rewarding.”
Executive positions
Throughout her career, Lena has also held executive positions for various dental societies and professional groups and has been awarded fellowships in the Pierre Fauchard Academy and the International College of Dentists.She says giving back to the dental community has been one of the most rewarding parts of her career. “Clinical work is incredibly fulfilling, but contributing beyond the surgery, whether through leadership, education, advocacy, or mentoring, brings a different kind of impact,” she says.
“To any colleague considering getting involved, I’d say this: You have more to offer than you think. Your experience, your ideas, your perspective — they can help shape the future of our profession in meaningful ways.
“When you take on roles in committees, societies, or teaching, you’re not just giving your time — you’re helping to: strengthen the profession for the next generation; improve standards of care for patients across the board; and ensure that dentistry remains not only clinically excellent but ethically grounded and community-focused.
“It’s also an opportunity to stay connected, build relationships, and continuously learn. The colleagues I’ve met through professional involvement have inspired me, challenged me, and often become lifelong friends and collaborators.
“Yes, it takes time. But what you give, you get back many times over — in growth, in perspective, and in the satisfaction of knowing you’ve helped move the profession forward.”
Distinguished Service Award
Lena says receiving the ADAWA Distinguished Service Award is an incredible honour — and one that means more to her than she can fully express.
“It’s humbling to be recognised by peers and colleagues I hold in such high regard,” she says. “This award isn’t just a reflection of years of service; it’s a reminder of the importance of community, collaboration, and contribution in our profession. Dentistry is more than clinical work — it’s about being part of something larger, and I’ve always believed in giving back to the profession that has given so much to me.
“To me, this award also represents the countless people I’ve worked alongside over the years — in committees, educational programs, advocacy efforts, and community outreach. Any contribution I’ve made has been part of a collective effort, and I share this recognition with all those who’ve supported, mentored, and inspired me along the way.
“It’s a moment of pride, yes — but more than that, it’s a moment of gratitude. Gratitude for the opportunities I’ve had to serve, for the trust placed in me, and for being part of a profession that values not just technical skill, but integrity, leadership, and service.”
Looking to the future
Looking ahead, Lena says she would like to continue building on the work she has been passionate about —in advancing oral health education, prevention, advocacy and supporting continuing professional development.
“I am currently balancing clinical work with my regulatory and assessment roles, which gives me a broad view of the profession,” she says. “What’s next for me is continuing to contribute at a policy and governance level — particularly in shaping standards and ensuring we are adapting to the evolving needs of both practitioners and patients. I am also exploring opportunities to mentor emerging clinicians and help strengthen the pipeline for future dental leaders.”
Congratulations Dr Lejmanoski!
