Tobago Chapter Feature

 

Tobago Chapter Feature

Welcoming Our New Members (2025–2026)

The Caribbean College of Family Physicians (CCFP) is proud to highlight the continued growth of the Tobago Chapter, as we warmly welcome a new cohort of dedicated physicians who have joined the College between 2025 and 2026.

The Tobago Chapter continues to play a vital role in strengthening primary care delivery, public health leadership, and community-based family medicine within Trinidad and Tobago. Our new members bring a wealth of experience, passion, and commitment to advancing the standards of care and professional development across the region.

Dr. Ariella Asha Thornton

District Medical Officer | Public Health & Palliative Care

Dr. Ariella Asha Thornton joined the CCFP in 2025 and is an active member of the Tobago Chapter. She currently serves as a District Medical Officer, practicing full-time family medicine with a strong emphasis on public health and palliative care.

She holds a Doctor of Medicine (MD) and a Master of Public Health (MPH) from St. George’s University, reflecting her commitment to both clinical excellence and population health.

Dr. Thornton’s professional interests align closely with the evolving needs of Caribbean healthcare systems, particularly in strengthening preventive care, improving patient outcomes, and delivering compassionate, holistic care.

Outside of medicine, she enjoys travelling, bringing a global perspective to her work and personal development.

Dr. Janissa Isha Baksh

Family Physician | Geriatrics & Palliative Care

The CCFP warmly welcomes Dr. Janissa Isha Baksh to the Tobago Chapter.

Dr. Baksh is a full-time Family Physician and District Medical Officer, holding an MBBS (UWI, 2017), a Diploma in Family Medicine (2022), and a Doctor of Medicine (DM) in Family Medicine (2024).

Her clinical interests focus on geriatrics and palliative care, reflecting a strong commitment to caring for the elderly and providing compassionate, patient-centered services.

Dr. Baksh is also actively interested in contributing to the College through CME development, primary care research, advocacy, mentorship, and fundraising initiatives, demonstrating her enthusiasm for leadership and professional growth within the CCFP.

Outside of medicine, she enjoys cooking and travelling.

Dr. Nyasha Tanika Hazel-Isaac

House Officer | Chronic Disease & Patient Education

We are pleased to welcome Dr. Nyasha Tanika Hazel-Isaac as a member of the Tobago Chapter.

Dr. Hazel-Isaac is a House Officer engaged in full-time clinical practice. She holds an MBBS (UWI, 2017), along with a Postgraduate Certificate in Dermatology in Clinical Practice (University of South Wales, 2021), and a strong academic background including a Bachelor of Medical Sciences and a BSc in Chemistry and Management.

Her professional interests include patient education and counseling, chronic disease management, women’s health, and geriatric care, highlighting a holistic and patient-centered approach to care.

She has a keen interest in technology and values time spent with family, reflecting a balanced approach to professional and personal life.

Dr. Tricia Hazel Thompson

District Medical Officer | Chronic Disease Management

The College is delighted to welcome Dr. Tricia Hazel Thompson to the Tobago Chapter.

Dr. Thompson is a District Medical Officer practicing full-time family medicine. She holds an MBBS (UWI, 2014), a Postgraduate Diploma (UWI, 2018), and a Master of Family Medicine (University of Edinburgh, 2019).

Her clinical focus is on chronic disease management and behavioural change, key areas in improving long-term patient outcomes in primary care.

Dr. Thompson is also interested in contributing to membership and mentorship initiatives within the College. Outside of her professional work, she enjoys exercise, travel, and finance-related interests.

Dr. Agbai Ekeoma Dimgba

Family Physician | Reproductive Health & Ethics

We are honoured to welcome Dr. Agbai Ekeoma Dimgba to the Tobago Chapter.

Dr. Dimgba is an experienced Family Physician with an extensive academic background, including a Master of Family Medicine (University of Edinburgh, 2020), a Diploma in Reproductive Health (Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, 2014), a Postgraduate Diploma in Child Health (Neurodevelopment), and an MBBS (University of Nigeria, 1991).

His areas of interest include sexual and reproductive health, medical ethics, health promotion, pain management, and chronic non-communicable diseases, demonstrating a broad and impactful scope of practice. 

He is also passionate about physician well-being, work-life balance, and faith-based approaches to health, bringing a holistic and values-driven perspective to family medicine. 

Strengthening Family Medicine in Tobago

The addition of new members such as Dr. Ariella Asha Thornton, Dr. Janissa Isha Baksh, Dr. Nyasha Tanika Hazel-Isaac, Dr. Tricia Hazel Thompson, Dr. Agbai Ekeoma Dimgba, and Dr. Basch reflects the Tobago Chapter’s ongoing commitment to:

• Enhancing primary healthcare delivery
• Promoting continuous medical education (CME)
• Supporting physician development and wellness
• Advancing public health and community engagement

Collectively, these physicians represent a diverse and dynamic mix of expertise across family medicine, public health, geriatrics, chronic disease management, reproductive health, dermatology, and palliative care, strengthening the depth and reach of care within Tobago.

As the Chapter continues to grow, it remains a critical pillar in the CCFP’s regional mission to advance family medicine and improve health outcomes across the Caribbean.

Congratulations to the Tobago Chapter.

In Memoriam: Dr. Tomlin Paul

 

World Family Doctor Day Jamaica 2024 Awards Banquet

Honouring a Life of Service, Compassion, and Dedication

It is with deep sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Dr. Tomlin Paul, who departed this life in early March 2026. His loss is profoundly felt across the medical fraternity and the many communities he served with unwavering commitment and care.

Dr. Paul was more than a physician—he was a healer in the truest sense. Throughout his career, he exemplified the core values of family medicine: compassion, continuity of care, and a deep respect for the dignity of every patient. His approach to medicine was not merely clinical, but deeply human, marked by empathy, attentiveness, and a genuine concern for the wellbeing of those entrusted to his care.

Colleagues remember Dr. Paul as a dedicated professional who upheld the highest standards of medical practice. He was known for his calm demeanor, thoughtful clinical judgment, and willingness to support and mentor others. Whether in consultation rooms, clinical discussions, or professional gatherings, his presence was one of quiet strength and wisdom.

Beyond his professional life, Dr. Paul touched lives in countless ways. Patients valued not only his expertise but his kindness—the reassuring words, the extra time given, and the sense that they were truly seen and heard. These qualities defined his legacy and set an example for all who follow in the noble calling of medicine.

His passing is a reminder of the profound impact that one individual can have within the healthcare system and the wider society. As we reflect on his life, we are reminded that the practice of medicine is not only about curing disease, but about caring for people—and in this, Dr. Paul excelled.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones, colleagues, and all those whose lives he touched. May they find comfort in the memories of his life, his service, and his enduring legacy.

Dr. Tomlin Paul’s contribution to medicine and to humanity will not be forgotten. His life stands as a testament to the values we strive to uphold as physicians.

May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Firearms Trafficking and Public Health

 The document is a report titled "Pathway to Policy: Firearms Trafficking and Public Health in the Caribbean," which aims to improve data analysis and policy responses related to firearms proliferation and its public health impacts in the region. 

Credits: The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA)

Overview of Firearms Trafficking and Public Health

The report examines the intersection of firearms trafficking and public health in the Caribbean, highlighting the urgent need for coordinated responses to address the rising violence and its economic impacts.

Trends in Firearm-Related Violence

• Firearms involved in 86% of homicides in 2023–24.
• Gang violence, particularly in Haiti, is a significant contributor.
• Recruitment of children into armed gangs is increasing.

Impact on Healthcare Systems

• Average medical costs for gunshot patients exceed annual health spending by 5:1 in The Bahamas, 3:1 in Barbados, and 8:1 in Jamaica.
• Estimated productivity losses: USD 72 million in The Bahamas, USD 19 million in Barbados, and USD 135 million in Jamaica due to firearm injuries.

Firearms Trafficking Dynamics

• Handguns dominate illicit firearms, with a rise in AR- and AK-pattern rifles.
• Maritime shipments from the U.S. are the primary trafficking vector.
• Trafficking of high-capacity magazines is concentrated in specific Caribbean destinations.

Policy Recommendations for Addressing Firearm Violence

• National actions: Strengthen community prevention, integrate public health into security strategies, and enhance offender management.
• Regional actions: Establish a multisectoral commission, intensify joint operations, and create a Caribbean Integrated Violence Surveillance System for better data sharing and analysis.

Regional-Level Actions to Combat Firearm Violence

• Establish a Regional Multisectoral Commission to enhance evidence-informed policy-making across security, healthcare, and civil society sectors.
• Intensify joint counter-trafficking operations with non-CARICOM jurisdictions and improve intelligence sharing.
• Sustain high-level engagement with US counterparts to disrupt trafficking networks supplying the Caribbean.
• Provide up-to-date training for law enforcement on weapons identification and tracing.
• Target the interdiction of illicit firearms, particularly rifles and large-capacity magazines.
• Enhance intelligence-led screening at high-risk entry and exit points to improve interdiction efforts.
• Develop resources to ensure the security and resilience of healthcare facilities against firearm-related incidents.
• Create a regional injury surveillance working group to promote data sharing and evidence-based crime prevention.

National-Level Actions for Firearm Violence Prevention

• Scale up multisectoral prevention efforts at the community level, integrating law enforcement and public health.
• Integrate public health measures into national security strategies to protect healthcare workers and facilities.
• Strengthen offender management and re-entry programs to reduce recidivism among firearm offenders.
• Support non-intrusive inspection systems at key ports to enhance package screening.
• Strengthen regulations on courier services to improve package screening and compliance penalties.
• Prioritize an integrated approach in Haiti, combining arms embargo enforcement with long-term development investments.
• Develop preventive interventions for at-risk children and youth to deter gang recruitment.
• Deploy counter-narratives against violence in communities to reduce the social prestige of firearms.

Trends in Firearm-Related Violence in the Caribbean

• The regional homicide rate has more than doubled, reaching 43.8 per 100,000 population from 2023 to 2024.
• Firearm homicides accounted for 86% of all homicides in CARICOM member states between 2023 and 2024.
• Gang violence is a significant contributor, with reports indicating it accounts for up to 70% of homicides in some areas.
• Hospitals are increasingly targeted in shootings, posing risks to healthcare providers and patients.
• The misuse of high-risk firearms, including AK- and AR-pattern rifles, is on the rise, increasing the lethality of violence.

Impact of Firearm Violence on Healthcare Workers

• Approximately 39% of healthcare workers (HCWs) in a 2024 study across seven Caribbean countries reported experiencing violence.
• In Trinidad and Tobago, 45% of respondents experienced violence, with 76% witnessing it over two years.
• Patient mental health issues and inadequate security measures were cited as primary causes of violence against HCWs.
• Rising firearm violence in Haiti has severely disrupted healthcare services, with over 60% of facilities in Port-au-Prince non-operational by mid-2025.
• Psychological well-being of HCWs is negatively impacted, leading to reduced job satisfaction and trust in health administration.

Trends in Firearm Violence in the Caribbean

• The Caribbean faces increasing gun violence, with homicide rates rising since 2016, particularly among young men.
• Haiti is the most affected, with rampant gang activity and severe disruptions to essential services.
• Transnational criminal networks exploit the region's geography for arms trafficking, complicating law enforcement efforts.
• Gangs compete for territory, leading to increased shootings, often involving innocent bystanders.

Firearm Trafficking Dynamics and Sources

• Handguns dominate illicit firearms in the Caribbean, comprising 88% of seizures, while AR- and AK-pattern rifles are on the rise.
• Trafficking is heavily concentrated in Florida, with 75% of seized shipments originating from Miami.
• Recent data indicates a stable trafficking dynamic, with little change in procurement locations or transport modes.
• Non-US sources of firearms are under-researched, but evidence suggests trafficking from South America and other regions is occurring.

Recommendations for Addressing Firearm Violence

• Integrate health-sector threat management into national security strategies.
• Prioritize facility risk assessments, incident reporting, and psychosocial support for HCWs.
• Enhance collaboration between law enforcement and healthcare providers to improve safety and security in healthcare settings.

Overview of Firearm Seizures in the Caribbean

The text provides detailed data on firearm seizures across various Caribbean countries, highlighting the modes of transport, types of firearms, and the countries of origin. It emphasizes the growing issue of firearm trafficking and its implications for public safety.

Firearm Seizures by Country and Location

• Seizures occurred in St. Lucia, The Bahamas, Belize, and Jamaica.
• Notable seizures include multiple firearms and ammunition types, such as Glock pistols and shotguns.
• The Bahamas reported significant seizures at Lynden Pindling International Airport, with multiple firearms confiscated in 2024.

Direct Medical Costs of Firearm Injuries

• Estimated direct medical costs for non-fatal firearm injuries: USD 1.6 million in The Bahamas, USD 228,000 in Barbados, and USD 2 million in Jamaica for 2024.
• The average cost of treating a single firearm injury exceeds annual public health expenditure per capita by ratios of 5:1 in The Bahamas, 3:1 in Barbados, and 8:1 in Jamaica.

Productivity Losses Due to Firearm Violence

• Total productivity losses from firearm-related injuries: USD 72 million in The Bahamas, USD 19 million in Barbados, and USD 135 million in Jamaica.
• Fatal injuries lead to significant productivity losses, with younger victims contributing to higher economic impacts.

Need for Improved Data Collection Systems

• Emphasizes the importance of integrating data collection on gunshot wounds into existing surveillance systems.
• Calls for a regional injury surveillance system to monitor firearm-related morbidity and mortality effectively.

Gun Violence Trends in the Caribbean

• The Caribbean faces high gun violence rates, with increased homicides since 2016, briefly reduced by Covid-19.
• Young men predominantly commit homicides and robberies using firearms, with alarming recruitment of children into gangs.

Illicit Firearms and Trafficking

• Handguns are the most seized firearms, with rising seizures of rifles and large-capacity magazines.
• Traffickers from the U.S., especially Florida and Georgia, are key players, but half of traced firearms come from other regions, including South America.

Public Health Impact of Firearm Violence

• Gunshot wound treatment costs exceed annual healthcare expenditures per capita.
• Firearm injuries lead to significant disability and productivity losses, diverting resources from prevention and development initiatives.

Multisectoral Approach for Solutions

• A balanced strategy between crime response and prevention is essential for addressing firearm violence.
• Regional leaders are committed to enhancing surveillance, legislation, and public awareness to combat illicit firearms trafficking.

Read Full Article

Firearm-Related Violence in the Caribbean

 

This document discusses the systemic issue of firearm-related violence in the Caribbean and proposes a public health approach to address it.

Credits : The Authors -  Natasha P. Sobers,ᵃ,∗ Joeleita Agard,ᵃ Katrina Norville,ᵃ Anne-Séverine Fabre,ᵇ Nicolas Florquin,ᵇ Callixtus Joseph,ᶜ Madeleine Joseph,ᵈ Maria Garcia-Joseph,ᵉ Reginald King,ᶠ P Jason Toppin,ᵍ Hugh Wong,ʰ and Simon G. Andersonᵃ,ⁱ

Published by Elsevier Ltd. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/). www.thelancet.com Vol 52 December, 2025

Firearm-Related Violence in the Caribbean

• Gun violence in the Caribbean has reached crisis levels, prompting regional leaders to advocate for a public health approach to prevention and control.
• A multisectoral group has been formed to develop a "Pathway to Policy" using systems mapping to understand firearm-related crimes and injuries across thirteen Caribbean countries. ​
• The analysis reveals feedback loops where firearm-related crimes contribute to household poverty, national economic costs, and a culture of violence, reinforcing gun violence.
• Interventions suggested include reducing illicit firearm access, enhancing social development programs, and investing in education to balance gun violence rates. ​

Public Health Approach to Violence ​

• The public health approach emphasizes understanding root causes rather than solely relying on law enforcement. ​
• The CDC outlines four phases for addressing violence: defining the problem, identifying risk factors, developing prevention strategies, and ensuring widespread adoption.
• Collaboration among stakeholders from health, security, and other sectors is essential for effective planning and response to this complex issue.

Current Homicide Rates and Trends

• The Americas, including the Caribbean, have a homicide rate significantly higher than the global average, with some Caribbean countries reporting rates up to nine times higher. ​
• Firearms are used in over half of the homicides in the region, with Jamaica, Haiti, Trinidad and Tobago, and the Bahamas having the highest rates. ​
• The situation is particularly dire in Haiti, where gangs control significant areas and have access to military-grade firearms, exacerbating violence and food insecurity. ​

CARICOM's Response and Initiatives

• CARICOM has recognized crime as a barrier to socio-economic development and has shifted towards a public health framework to address violence. ​
• This shift was formalized in 2023 during a symposium that called for a holistic approach involving various societal sectors. ​
• The collaboration between the Small Arms Survey and CARICOM IMPACS has led to the "Weapons Compass: The Caribbean Firearms Study," which highlights the public health and economic consequences of armed violence. ​

Systems Mapping and Analysis

• The systems mapping technique was employed to identify factors contributing to firearm-related injuries and crimes, revealing complex interconnections. ​
• Causal loop diagrams (CLDs) were developed to visualize these relationships, emphasizing the importance of understanding the dynamics of firearm-related violence. ​
• The analysis identified reinforcing loops related to household poverty, national economic costs, and the culture of violence, as well as balancing loops involving public policy and education.

Key Findings and Recommendations

• The study emphasizes the need for a balanced approach that integrates crime response strategies with prevention efforts. ​
• Recommendations include establishing a regional framework for violence research, creating a public data repository for injury surveillance, enhancing collaboration between public health and law enforcement, and implementing evidence-informed public health campaigns to shift social norms. ​
• Educational and social development programs are crucial for addressing the root causes of firearm violence and should be prioritized alongside law enforcement measures. ​

Conclusion

• Addressing firearm-related violence in the Caribbean requires a comprehensive, systemic approach that combines public health, education, and social development with security measures. ​
• The document calls for regional and international cooperation to tackle the issue effectively, recognizing that no single solution is sufficient.
• Future efforts should focus on leveraging systems thinking to develop coordinated action plans that address the complex interplay of factors contributing to firearm violence. 

Read the full document here Read Full Text ​

A Legacy of Excellence

 

Honoring Dr. Alverston Bailey: Commander of the Order of Distinction

The Caribbean College of Family Physicians (CCFP) proudly celebrates Dr. Alverston Bailey, who has been conferred with the Order of Distinction, Commander Class (CD) by the Government of Jamaica. He   received this national honor on Jamaica’s National Heroes Day, Monday, October 20, 2025, during the official public awards ceremony.

This recognition underscores Dr. Bailey’s distinguished service to Occupational and Family Medicine and his transformative contributions to public health advocacy, medical education, and community development in Jamaica and across the Caribbean.

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A Legacy of Excellence in Medicine and Public Health

Dr. Bailey embodies the ideals of distinguished service, transformative leadership, and unwavering commitment to the advancement of health and society. With a career spanning more than four decades, his impact has been felt in diverse but interconnected fields:

• Occupational Health: As Chief Medical Officer at Kaiser Jamaica Bauxite Company, Dr. Bailey pioneered industrial health programs that reshaped workplace safety and wellbeing. His certification by the American College of Occupational Medicine cemented his standing as a global leader in occupational health.

• Family Medicine: During his tenure as Regional President of the CCFP, he championed regional collaboration, fostered evidence-based practice, and successfully integrated the College into the World Organization of Family Doctors (WONCA). His leadership extended further as President of the Medical Association of Jamaica, where he championed professional standards, community outreach, and policy advocacy, including the landmark Patient Charter of Rights.

• Public Service: As Chairman of the Pesticides Control Authority (2006–2015), Dr. Bailey oversaw vital reforms in pesticide regulation, food safety, and environmental stewardship. His vision elevated Jamaica’s pesticide management framework and advanced national food security.

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Commitment to Service and Education

Dr. Bailey has devoted himself to service far beyond his professional roles:

• Volunteerism: His leadership extended to the Diabetes Association of Jamaica, St. Ann Red Cross Society, and several national boards and health initiatives.

• Education: As an academic mentor and lecturer, he shaped the careers of future medical leaders through his teaching at the University of Technology and his leadership roles in medical schools.

• Public Advocacy: Through syndicated columns, radio programs such as On Call with Dr. Al and Sexwise, and his landmark book Sexplanation: A Guide to Discussing Sex and Sexuality in the Caribbean, he brought vital health knowledge to the public.

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Awards and Recognition

Dr. Bailey has received numerous distinctions throughout his career, including:

• The Medical Association of Jamaica President’s Award (2003)

• The Caribbean College of Family Physicians Chairperson’s Award (2005)

• Fellowship in the Caribbean College of Family Physicians (2006)

• The Sir Alister McIntyre Distinguished Award (2022) for diabetes advocacy

• The World Family Doctor Day Signature Award (2024)

These accolades culminate in the honor of Commander of the Order of Distinction, recognizing his national and regional legacy.

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A Life of Integrity and Inspiration

Dr. Bailey is not only a physician and advocate but also a man of deep integrity, family devotion, and community spirit. A native of Tom Bell, Rio Bueno, Trelawny, his journey from “Kangaroo Kid” scholar to medical leader exemplifies the power of discipline, wisdom, and service.

Married to Clarissa for thirty-eight years, and a proud father and grandfather, Dr. Bailey balances his professional life with personal passions, including photography, poetry, and mentoring.

His personal philosophy is a guiding light:

“Let your life be so well lived that it stands as a beacon for all to emulate.”

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CCFP Regional Tribute

The Caribbean College of Family Physicians extends heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Alverston Bailey, CD. His career represents the highest standards of medicine, ethics, and public service, and his achievements will continue to inspire physicians, communities, and future generations across the Caribbean.

Postcard from WONCA Conference 2025 – Snapshots of Lisbon

 

📬 Postcard from WONCA 2025 – Snapshots of Lisbon

A Story in Images, Memories, and Magic

Lisbon greeted us like an old friend—warm, colorful, full of music, and unexpectedly emotional. WONCA 2025 was more than a conference; it was a reunion of hearts, a celebration of excellence, and a shared reminder of why Family Medicine remains humanity’s most compassionate specialty.

As we stepped into the rhythm of the city, these snapshots became our living postcard.

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✨ Reunion at the Lisbon Conference Centre

 Marvin, Tania, Marie-Jo and Paula hugging

The very first moments set the tone. At the entrance, hugs flew freely—Marvin, Tania, Marie-Jo, and Paula—all wrapped in the joy of reconnection. After a year of virtual planning, emails, and late-night discussions, finally meeting in person felt like a homecoming.

Dr. Kathleen Sangster-Singh and Dr. Aldyth Buckland

“I am a hugger,” she reminded everyone, and Lisbon was more than ready for warm embraces.

Caribbean group meet-up for supper after opening ceremony WONCA 2025

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🌍 WWPWFM Pre-Conference: Passing the Torch

WWPWFM Pre-Conference (Elizabeth, Karen, Lucy, Hina)

From left to right stood the women who shaped the movement:
Elizabeth Reji, outgoing Chair—Karen Flegg, outgoing WONCA President—Lucy Candib, honorary member—and Hina Jawaid, the newly appointed Chair of the Working Party.
Their smiles carried legacy, accomplishment, and momentum for the future.

The North American Region received a special award—Outstanding Achievements as a Working Party.
We were celebrated for membership growth, collaboration, and commitment, and even presented to the other six WONCA regions on how we achieved it. The applause was heartfelt; the pride was ours.

 North America Region Award Presentation

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🌱 Planetary Health Pre-Conference Workshop

Planetary Health Workshop (Ozden, Sankha, you; Tamica and Seni joining virtually)

This workshop felt like standing at the intersection of medicine and the future.
Outgoing president Ozden stood on the left; the incoming president, Sankha, on the right—and in between, our regional voices.

Tamica and Seni joined virtually, proving that distance cannot weaken dedication.

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🎨 Lisbon’s Airport Murals – Art in Motion

Murals at Lisbon Airport (multiple placeholders)

Lisbon welcomed us with splashes of color even before we touched the city.
The airport walls were alive—murals of culture, history, and imagination. Each stroke of paint whispered, “Welcome to a city that breathes art.”

More murals stood proudly as we walked further—each one a quiet invitation to explore.

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🏙 Evening in Lisbon – A View from the Apartment

7:45 pm traffic view from apartment window

From the window at 7:45 pm, the city slowed to an exhale.

The traffic thinned, lights shimmered like scattered jewels, and Lisbon’s evening settled into a peaceful hum.
It was the perfect moment to pause, reflect, and whisper gratitude for the privilege of being here.

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🎶 WONCA 2025 – Opening Ceremony

 

The ceremony began with music, movement, and emotion. Lisbon delivered an atmosphere that felt both celebratory and sacred.
You could feel the heartbeat of the global family medicine community pulsing through the hall.

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🇯🇲 Caribbean Delegation in Lisbon

President Marvin and Secretary Tania proudly stood among the Caribbean attendees—a small but powerful representation of resilience, excellence, and unity.

Our presence echoed through the conference centre:
The Caribbean is here.
The Caribbean is contributing.
The Caribbean is rising.

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🎵 Musical Moments & Warm Words

Aldyth, Tania, and musicians

Dr. Viviana, Aldyth, and musicians

The music filled the hall with warmth, and Dr. Viviana delivered a beautiful thank-you speech in Portuguese, expressing heartfelt appreciation for the musicians.
Her gestures, her tone—every part of her showed pure joy.

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✨ A Surprise from Home (Jamaica) – Usain Bolt in Lisbon

 

While waiting for the tram, Aldyth spotted an ad featuring Jamaica’s own Usain Bolt at the bus stop outside the Lisbon Conference Centre.
A piece of home, shining proudly across the world.
It felt like Jamaica was cheering her on.

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🏆 WONCA Awards & Inauguration Ceremony, 2025

The hall glowed under the grandeur of the WONCA Awards and Inauguration Ceremony. Anticipation filled the air as the global community honored excellence from every region.

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🌟 WONCA 5-Star Doctor – A Caribbean Triumph

The WONCA Awards Ceremony took place on September  20, 2025 at the Lisbon Congress Centre, Lisbon, Portugal.

Dr. Aldyth on stage, 5-Star Doctor 2024 announcement

The stage is being set

Video still – 5 Star Awardees 2024 & 2025 Announcement

Group of 2024 Regional Awardees

WONCA 5 Star Doctor (Regional Awards) for 2024
From left to right:
*North America Region
Dr. Aldyth Buckland (Jamaica)

*Europe Region
Dr. Nato Shengelia (Georgia)

*Africa Region
Dr. Dan Abubakar
(Nigeria)

*Iberoamericana Region- CIMF
Representative for Dr. Maria Inez Padula Anderson ( Brazil)

*Eastern Mediterranean Region 
Representative for Dr. Maisa Al Kiyumi (Oman)

*South Asia Region
(Absent) Dr. Sanath Hettige ( Sri Lanka)

*Asia Pacific Region
(Absent) Dr. Karin Estepa - Garcia (Philippines)

Aldyth & Tania at Lisbon Conference Centre

WONCA 5 Star Doctors (Region) 2024  Dr. Nato Shengelia for Europe and Dr. Aldyth Buckland for North America Region

Aldyth & Kathleen Sangster-Singh

And then—our moment.

The announcement rang out:

“WONCA 5-Star Doctor, North America Region…

Dr. Aldyth Buckland.”

The hall erupted. Caribbean pride soared.
Beside her stood Dr. Tania Whitby-Best, WONCA North America Region President—beaming.

Two shining stars from CCFP:
✨ Dr. Aldyth Buckland – 5 Star Doctor (North America Region)
✨ Dr. Kathleen Sangster-Singh – Montegut Scholar (North America Region)

It was history.
It was legacy.
It was a moment we will carry forever.

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💌 Closing the Postcard

Lisbon gave us more than a conference.

It gave us laughter, art, music, sisterhood…
…and a powerful reminder that the Caribbean continues to shine brightly on the world stage of Family Medicine.

Until the next WONCA, may this postcard remind us that we are part of something bigger—
a global community… united in care, compassion, and commitment.

With pride from Lisbon,
2025.