Experts Unite for Caribbean Webinar on Health-First Disaster Response

A distinguished panel of Caribbean health leaders, advocates, and communication experts will gather for a pivotal online webinar titled “Putting People & Health First in Disaster Preparedness, Response and Recovery.” The event will take place virtually from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM AST/EDT, aiming to address the vital intersection between health systems and disaster management in the region.

Organized by the Healthy Caribbean Coalition (HCC) in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and Earth Medic | Earth Nurse, this free webinar highlights the importance of prioritizing human health and well-being in all phases of disaster planning and response — especially amid increasing climate-related threats to the Caribbean.

🗓 Webinar Details:

• Date: Monday, June 16, 2025

• Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM AST/EDT

• Register: bit.ly/CLIMATEHCC

🎙 Presenters & Panellists Include:

• Dr. James Hospedales – Member, HCC Board; Executive Director, Earth Medic | Earth Nurse

• Dr. Heather Armstrong – Head, Chronic Diseases and Injury, Caribbean Public Health Agency

• Ms. Lealou Reballos – Advisor, Health Emergencies (Caribbean), PAHO

• Dr. Gloria Giraldo – NCDs and Mental Health Caribbean, Sub-Regional Advisor, PAHO

• Ms. Yvonne Alexander – Public Relations Officer, Dominica Cancer Society

• Dr. Saria Hassan – Assistant Professor, Emory University School of Medicine; Director, Eastern Caribbean Health Outcomes Research Network

• Mr. Anthony Greene – President, Caribbean Broadcasting Union

• Ms. Camelta Barnes – Senior Nutritionist, Ministry of Health and Wellness, The Bahamas

• Ms. Danielle Toppin – Director General, Barbados Red Cross

• Mrs. Maisha Hutton – Executive Director, Healthy Caribbean Coalition

• Ms. Karissa Moss – Youth Climate Advocate, The Bahamas

• Ms. Zaria Ingham – Youth Climate Advocate, UNICEF Eastern Caribbean

A Focus on Equity and Resilience

With disaster risks intensifying due to climate change, this webinar seeks to ensure that community voices, public health, and equity remain central to emergency planning across Caribbean territories. Topics will span from mental health and nutrition to communication strategies and youth leadership in climate action.

This event offers a unique opportunity for stakeholders, health professionals, and community members to engage with top regional minds and build a more resilient Caribbean — one where people and health come first.