To the World Pediatrics community,
On behalf of the Executive Board of Directors, I am writing to share that our Chief Executive Officer, Vafa Akhavan, has accepted the position of CEO at another nonprofit organization and will depart World Pediatrics on September 11, 2026.
During his five years with World Pediatrics, Vafa helped guide the transformation of World Pediatric Project into World Pediatrics. He helped strengthen our identity as one organization, expand the scale and scope of advanced pediatric care, and deepen relationships across our community of staff, Boards, donors, medical volunteers, partners and health institutions.
The cause of children and the mission of World Pediatrics have always been deeply personal to Vafa. His commitment and passion have been evident in his work with children and families, government leaders, donors, medical volunteers and healthcare partners, as well as in his investment in the people and leadership of our organization. Throughout his service, he has carried our Kids First value into every aspect of his work.
We are sincerely grateful for Vafa’s leadership, his service and the lasting contributions he has made to World Pediatrics and the children, families and communities we serve.
As part of this transition, the Executive Board has named Dr. Donna Brown interim Chief Executive Officer, effective September 12, 2026. Donna has served World Pediatrics for more than 20 years in numerous capacities, including as a volunteer surgeon, donor, Board member and, most recently, Board Chair. Her deep knowledge of World Pediatrics and lifelong commitment to children position her well to guide the organization through this transition.
The Executive Board has also initiated a comprehensive search for the organization’s next Chief Executive Officer. World Pediatrics enters this transition with an approved direction for 2027 and a leadership team committed to advancing our mission. Our programs, partnerships, scheduled events and work on behalf of children continue.
The Board and the organization are grateful for all that each of you does to heal children and change the world. The journey continues. The impact grows.
Sincerely,
Linda Norman
Board Chair, World Pediatrics
Heal a Child. Change the World.
Media Contact:
Romina Newman
Senior Director of Marketing and Communications – World Pediatrics