A High-Level Event During the 80th
United Nations General Assembly
25 Years Changing Lives
Organized by the Government of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines in collaboration with World Pediatrics
About the Event
To commemorate World Pediatrics' 25th anniversary, the Government of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines—under the leadership of The Honorable Dr. Ralph E. Gonsalves—will host the SVG–World Pediatrics High-Level Event during the 80th United Nations General Assembly, in partnership with World Pediatrics.
September 25th, 2025 | 4.00 pm – 6.00 pm EDT
Location: 685 Third Avenue, 11th Floor
New York City
For 25 years, World Pediatrics has become a driving force in advancing pediatric health equity around the globe. Since its founding, the organization has provided advanced surgical care to more than 27,000 children and delivered over 18,000 life-changing procedures. Through strong local partnerships, World Pediatrics empowers providers and transforms healthcare systems across the Caribbean, Central America, Africa, and beyond—now operating in 27 countries and counting.
This milestone SVG–World Pediatrics High-Level Event, held during the United Nations General Assembly, will unite world leaders, public health experts, and philanthropic partners to:
• Highlight research-proven models that expand access to pediatric surgical care in resource-limited settings
• Celebrate 25 years of World Pediatrics’ impact across borders and commitment to health equity
• Advance new partnerships to reach even more children with the care they deserve
WHY IT MATTERS
Each year, millions of children suffer or die from conditions that could be treated with timely surgical care. This isn't a question of possibility— it's a matter of access.
World Pediatrics has spent 25 years showing what’s possible when nations, institutions, and communities work shoulder-to-shoulder to close that gap.
This gathering is more than a celebration—it is a call to action. It marks the official kickoff of a year-long tribute to World Pediatrics’ mission:
To heal more children, in less time, with greater impact.
Together, we have the opportunity to build on 25 years of impact—and shape a future where no child is left without the surgical care they need to survive and thrive.
25 Years of impact
For 25 years, World Pediatrics has been connecting children in urgent need of medical care with caring teams of
doctors, nurses, and volunteers around the world.
Children served
Surgeries completed
Medical services delivered
Health workers trained
Surgical and diagnostic teams coordinated
Mobilized in health care services
Speakers
The Honorable
Dr. Ralph E. Gonsalves
Prime Minister | Legal Scholar | Global Advocate | Regional Statesman The Honorable Dr. Ralph E. Gonsalves has served as Prime Minister of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines since 2001, becoming one of the Caribbean’s longest-serving leaders. A trained lawyer and political scientist, he holds a Ph.D. from the University of Manchester and has championed education reform, social justice, and regional diplomacy. Internationally recognized for his leadership on climate justice and reparations, Dr. Gonsalves continues to be a global voice for equity, sovereignty, and sustainable development across small island nations.
The Honorable
Dr. Ralph E. Golsalves
Prime Minister | Legal Scholar | Global Advocate | Regional Statesman
Dr. Donna D. Brown, M.D.
Global Health Leader | Pediatric Ophthalmology | Strategic Medical Advisor | Humanitarian Impact Board-certified ophthalmologist with 20+ years of experience advancing pediatric eye care and surgical excellence. Known for clinical leadership in cornea, external diseases, pediatric ophthalmology, and adult strabismus. A trusted medical advisor and longtime advocate for equitable access to care, with impact across the U.S. and the Caribbean. Active in strategic planning and global outreach through World Pediatrics, with a deep commitment to service in underserved communities like St. Vincent. Widely respected for medical expertise, mentorship, and compassionate care delivery.
Dr. Donna D. Brown, M.D.
Global Health Leader | Pediatric Ophthalmology | Strategic Medical Advisor | Humanitarian Impact
Vafa Akhavan
Global Executive | Change & Transformation | Profitable Growth | Operational Excellence CEO / SVP with a proven track record of driving revenue growth and enhancing profitability. Deliver value through visionary leadership and deep expertise in developing and empowering high-performing business leaders and ecosystems. Industry experience spans 7 sectors across 16 countries on 3 continents. Recognized by Gallup’s executive benchmark for strengths in Strategic Thinking, Command, Activator, Ideation, and Adaptability.
Vafa Akhavan
Global Executive | Change & Transformation | Profitable Growth | Operational Excellence
Carrie Dolan
Global Health Researcher | Spatial Epidemiology | Data-Driven Impact | Field-Based Insight Spatial epidemiologist and Associate Professor of Kinesiology with expertise in geospatial health analysis and global service delivery. Director of the Ignite Lab at William & Mary, combining data science and fieldwork to improve health outcomes in underserved communities. Field experience spans from Jamaica to Kenya, earning recognition as a Fellow of the Explorers Club. Research bridges academia, frontline practitioners, and funding agencies, with leadership roles in the AidData Research Consortium and the Center for Geospatial Analysis Steering Committee. Committed to igniting change through evidence-based global health solutions.
Carrie Dolan
Global Health Researcher | Spatial Epidemiology | Data-Driven Impact | Field-Based Insight
25 years, 25 stories
Zeadan
AGE 4 Born with a heart condition that limited his energy and his future, he traveled to Texas Children’s Hospital for life-saving cardiac surgery through World Pediatrics. Today, his heart is stronger—and so is his spirit. With surgery behind him, Zeadan is now focused on what matters most: celebrating his preschool graduation and getting ready for Kindergarten. 📚🎉 His journey is a reminder that when children get the care they need, they don’t just survive—they thrive. Because of your support, the next chapter for kids like Zeadan is one filled with joy, opportunity, and a whole lot of playtime.
Leilany
AGE 5 If we didn’t have World Pediatrics’ support, I don’t think my daughter would be able to have the surgery. I would have to ask my brothers and my mother for money to try to gather something, but even then, it wouldn’t be enough to pay for a treatment like this.” I’ve realized how much the foundation has truly helped my daughter. We are very happy and grateful for all the support we’ve received. Thank you to the doctors and the foundation. My whole family is happy with the process we’ve gone through, and thanks to God, everything has gone well. Victor Perez – Father
Atreus
14 MONTHS OLD At just 14 months old, Atreus has already shown what it means to be brave. Traveling from Saint Lucia with his mom, Sabitha, he arrived in St. Louis in June for care.Atreus was born with supravalvar aortic stenosis, a condition that restricts blood flow from the heart, along with sickle cell disease. To prepare for open-heart surgery, he underwent two blood transfusions to reduce his risk of complications. Just a few weeks ago, doctors performed a cardiac cath procedure and the very next day, he underwent open-heart surgery with Dr. Corrine Tan.He’s now on the road to recovery, with his care team keeping a close eye on his progress before he returns home in a few weeks!
Estefania
AGE 13 I’m excited that my daughter is going to have surgery. My daughter is excited about the surgery too; she really needs the surgery, and she is very happy that it is happening this year 2025. We do not have the money to pay for the surgery. We have received so much help from World Pediatrics and Dr. Cobar, and we are confident that you are going to help us change my daughter’s life. God has performed a miracle in our lives by finding World Pediatrics. God has worked this miracle of having my daughter’s surgery done. All of this has been done thanks to God. Estefania’s father has many debts; and is unable to cover the cost of a surgery for his daughter. Oscar Avila – Father.
Ojayah
AGE 17 At just six months old, Ojayah traveled from St. Vincent to Richmond for heart surgery through World Pediatrics. Seventeen years later, he returned—this time for life-changing spinal fusion surgery to treat severe kyphoscoliosis. Thanks to our long-standing partnership with Bon Secours St. Mary’s Hospital, Ojayah received expert orthopedic care tailored to his complex cardiac history. His family found comfort at the Evelyn D. Reinhart Guest House, and travel support from Mercy Medical Angels brought both parents to his side. Ojayah’s journey is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when compassion and collaboration come together.
Daniela
6-year-old, Honduras Apert Syndrome / Craniofacial Surgery "As Daniela’s mom, I am filled with joy and gratitude for what World Pediatrics has done for my daughter. Thanks to the wonderful people in the U.S. and Honduras, Daniela’s life has completely transformed. She can now breathe through her nose, understand me better when I speak to her, and speak clearly enough for others to understand her. Seeing these changes has brought so much happiness to our family. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for giving Daniela this chance." – Daniela’s mom.
Prince
Age 9 Diagnosed with Blount’s Disease, Prince had external fixators placed on his legs to gradually straighten and lengthen them—a process that takes daily adjustments, strength, and a lot of courage. For the next few months, Prince will work hard in physical therapy and lean on his dad, Babatunde, for support. But he’s not alone. Thanks to Shriners STL, Ronald McDonald House, Mercy Medical Angels, Oracle Health Foundation, and the Pediatric Assistance League of St. Kitts and Nevis, Prince has a whole team behind him. The road ahead won’t be easy—but Prince is ready to walk it.
Alexa
AGE 13 No one expects to receive this kind of news. Since my daughter’s birth, she has shown no symptoms throughout all these years, until now, as she enters adolescence. As her parents, we were terrified upon learning the diagnosis. We placed everything in God's hands and believe this is a miracle, as we were desperate and didn’t know what to do. Thanks to World Pediatrics, we have regained hope for our daughter. Interview: Juana Rodas, mother
Taijon
AGE 10 After months of treatment in Saint Louis, Taijon is heading home to Grenada to reconnect with his family, especially his twin sister, whom he has missed dearly. During his time here, Taijon underwent two surgeries to correct his foot deformity and received physical therapy to strengthen his mobility. He is returning home with AFOs to continue his progress and is excited to be back with his loved ones.
Dulce
AGE 11 For us, finding World Pediatrics has been a blessing because it has changed Dulce’s life. They gave her a new opportunity to receive the treatment she needed, and there are no words to express how grateful we are for all the support we’ve received. Ruth de León - mother
Elisabet
11-year-old, Honduras Osteogenesis Imperfecta "I have had over 50 broken bones because I have osteogenesis imperfecta. Once, I even broke a bone just from writing. But now, I am so happy to be in the United States for surgery to make my legs stronger. Recently, I wasable to stand for the first time in my life, and it felt amazing. Thank you to everyone who is helping make this possible." – Elisabet.
Cehanna
12-year-old, Belize Blount Disease and Orthopedic Surgery "Cehanna is so much happier and more confident now that she’s back at school. She couldn’t wait to return and show her friends how different she looks and how much better she can walk. She’s also more eager to join in activities, and we see her joy shining through every day." – Araceli, Cehanna’s mom.
Damaris
8-year-old, Guatemala Orthopedic Surgery and Prosthetics. "Thank you for your incredible support. Without it, I can’t imagine what Damaris’s life would be like right now. It breaks my heart to think of my daughter sitting at home, unable to walk, without the chance to live a normal life. I’m deeply grateful to World Pediatrics and to God for inspiring your generosity and kindness to help us." – Damaris’s mother
Jahzara
2-year-old, St. Lucia Clubfoot "My dream is that one day, Jahzara will grow up to become a doctor and help others, just like she’s been helped. Even at just two years old, she’s already shown so much resilience and strength. I believe the care and support she’s received will inspire her to make a difference in the lives of others in the future." – Torri, Jahzara’s mom
Mathias
6-year-old, Guatemala Apert Syndrome / Craniofacial surgery. "I owe you my life, because seeing Mathias like this fills me with so much joy and gratitude. I am profoundly thankful to you and everyone involved in this incredible process. This surgery hasn’t just changed my son’s life—it has SAVED HIS LIFE!" – Ivonne, Mathias’ mom.
Crystalline
16-year-old, Jamaica Idiopathic Scoliosis "Crystal was diagnosed five years ago, so we are extremely grateful to finally be here, receiving treatment and already seeing positive changes. In her spare time, Crystal loves to draw and read, and she dreams of becoming a real estate agent when she grows up. She’s excited about the possibility of resuming physical activities and enjoying the usual experiences of being a teenager, which she’s been limited from due to her diagnosis." – Pastor Miller, Crystal’s father
Leann
6-year-old, Belize Orthopedic Hand Surgery "Leann is now more independent and confident using both of her hands—something we never thought we would see. In our country, we had no means to get her the help she needed, and we felt so hopeless. Thanks to World Pediatrics and your incredible support, our lives have completely changed. Leann can now do things we once took for granted, like holding things with both hands. I am eternally grateful to all of you for giving her this chance." – Gabriela, Leann’s mom.
Kratika
5-year-old, India Clubfoot “When we learned that our daughter was born with clubfoot, we worried about what her future would look like. We wanted nothing more than to see her grow up strong, able to walk and play like other children. Thanks to the incredible care she received, Kratika now has that chance. Her surgery has changed everything—not just for her, but for our whole family. Seeing her wave and smile after her treatment fills our hearts with hope.” – Kratika’s mother.
Nguyên Gia Hu’ng
5-year-old, Vietnam Clubfoot. “When our son was born with clubfoot, we did everything we could to get him the treatment he needed, but his condition came back. Watching him struggle again was heartbreaking—we felt helpless. But then, we found the help we had been searching for. Now, he can walk and play like any other child. As parents, there is no greater relief than seeing our child stand tall and move without pain.” – Quàng Thi Thùy, Hu’ng’s father
Tilus
14-year-old, Haiti Orthopedic Surgery “For years, my legs kept getting worse, and the pain only grew stronger. I didn’t know what was happening—I just knew it hurt to walk. When I found out I had rickets, I was scared. But then World Pediatrics came into my life. They made sure I got the surgeries I needed. Now, I can stand tall and walk without pain. It’s something I never thought would be possible, and I am so grateful.” – Tilus
Alhaji
9-year-old, Sierra Leone Hernia Surgery “For years, I watched my son suffer from a hernia that required multiple hospital visits and medications—treatment I struggled to afford. But I never stopped searching for a way to help him. When I found Maila Memorial and the doctor working with World Pediatrics, I finally felt like I wasn’t alone in this journey. Alhaji received his surgery, and now he is free from the burden of his condition. As a father, that means everything to me.” – Mohamed, Alhaji’s father.
Sheyla
9-year-old, Guatemala Neurosurgery “Sheyla is doing so well after her surgery! It’s been a challenge to keep her calm while she heals because all she wants to do now is run, play, and enjoy the life she deserves. Watching her laughter and energy return after everything she’s been through fills my heart with so much joy. She’s come so far, and I know her mother would be so proud." – Sheyla’s aunt and main caregiver.
Ana Belen
13-year-old, Guatemala Scoliosis Surgery. "Ana Belén’s surgery was life-changing, and the mental health sessions made the experience much less stressful for her. World Pediatrics’ new program in Guatemala provided incredible support for children like Ana, facing complex surgeries. Thanks to the care she received, Ana is now a happier, more confident teenager. Thank you for making this possible!" – Ana, Ana Belén’s mom.
Carolina
8-year-old, Belize Craniofacial Surgery. "Without World Pediatrics, there would have been no hope for Carolina. When she was born with a rare complete facial cleft, we felt lost and desperate for help. Since 2018, World Pediatrics has provided life-changing care, including multiple surgeries that have transformed her life. Now, Carolina can smile brighter, and her future is filled with possibilities. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for giving her the chance to thrive and for bringing hope to our family when we needed it most." – Briseidy, Carolina’s mom.
Maria
19-year-old, Honduras Spine Surgery "Maria feels amazing! She’s pain-free and has started slowly resuming activities she couldn’t do before surgery, like playing volleyball with her friends. Although the surgery was painful, she’s incredibly grateful for the results and thrilled it’s behind her. Reuniting with our family has been emotional—we were amazed to see her standing 4 inches taller, with improved posture and a straight back. Maria’s smile is brighter than ever, reflecting her newfound confidence. While she’s still restricted from heavy lifting, Maria is excited to attend beautician school this fall. Thank you to World Pediatrics and everyone who contributed to her care—your generosity has changed her life forever!" - Leydi, Maria’s sister
