The Antigua and Barbuda Diabetes Association (ABDA) has elected a new Executive Committee to serve for the 2025–2027 term under the Association’s core pillars of “Prevention, Care and Support”.
Leading the new team is President Charity Dublin, Vice President Dr. Monica Osborne-Stevens, Secretary Evangeline Allen, Assistant Secretary Soma Gordon, Treasurer Wema Peters, and Assistant Treasurer Andicia Tuitt. The communications portfolio is held by Public Relations Officer Marina Claxton-Browne and Assistant PRO Sharifa Peters. Emelda Benjamin and Devorah Simmons will serve as Floor Members.
The election took place at the association’s recent annual general meeting. During the meeting, the association also adopted a revised constitution, aligning its operations more closely with those of similar regional and international organizations.
In her Presidential Report, outgoing President Juanita James gave a comprehensive account of her tenure, highlighting key initiatives such as the ongoing Diabetic Foot Program and the Students’ Health Expo held at the National Public Library. She also noted a significant visit from Professor Peter Schwarz, then President-Elect and now President of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF).
James expressed sincere gratitude to ABDA’s partners, donors, and sponsors—including the Medical Benefits Scheme (MBS), Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education, Sir Lester Bird Medical Center, Heart and Stroke Foundation, Antigua and Barbuda, Department of the Environment, Antigua & Barbuda Association of Nutritionist & Dietitians, Rotary Club of Antigua, Lions, Pears Foundation, Healthy Caribbean Coalition (and Healthy Caribbean Youth), International Diabetes Federation, Pan American Health Organization, and various individual supporters both locally and abroad for their continued contributions.
The incoming President and members of the Association offered high commendations to James for her dedicated service. The incoming President and Executive Committee thanked the Association for the vote of confidence placed in them. They pledged to work with members to improve the lives and wellbeing of those living with diabetes while also aiming to delay or prevent the development of diabetes and its related complications.
