During a recent visit to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, World Pediatrics Chief Executive Officer Vafa Akhavan met with Hon. Dr. Godwin Friday, Prime Minister of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines; The Honourable Daniel Cummings, Minister of Health, Wellness, Environmental Health and Energy; and H.E. Stanley John, K.C., Governor-General of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, to reaffirm and strengthen our long-standing partnership in pediatric healthcare.
He was joined by Lauren McIntosh-Shallow, Executive Director, Caribbean, and Leorol Gibson, Program Coordinator, Caribbean, reflecting World Pediatrics’ continued regional presence and commitment.
The meetings served as both courtesy engagements and strategic discussions focused on the future of pediatric healthcare in the country. Conversations centered on the evolution of World Pediatrics’ work in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines — from delivering direct surgical care to empowering local providers and strengthening systems for sustainable impact.
With the transition to the new Acute Referral Hospital in Arnos Vale, discussions included how World Pediatrics’ traveling teams can continue supporting surgical services, expanding training, and strengthening pediatric specialty programs within the new facility. Emphasis was placed on moving beyond episodic care toward deeper collaboration that builds local capacity and ensures long-term outcomes for Vincentian children.
As World Pediatrics marks 25 years of impact, moments like this reflect what sustainable global health partnerships truly look like: alignment at every level — from operating rooms to national leadership — all focused on one shared priority: Kids First.
Media Contact:
Romina Newman
Senior Director of Marketing and Communications – World Pediatrics