The Antigua and Barbuda Dental Association has been selected as a finalist in the FDI World Dental Federation's Young Dentist and Early Career Dentist Leadership Programme, according to Antigua News Room.
The Association's submission was recognised for its commitment to developing the next generation of dental leaders through mentorship, leadership development, governance reform, and continuing education.
As part of the final round, all finalist programmes will be showcased through photographs and video at the FDI World Dental Congress in Prague, Czech Republic, this September. The presentation will introduce dental leaders from across the globe to the work being carried out in Antigua and Barbuda.
Among the programme's most significant achievements is the increased involvement of young dentists in the Association's leadership. Recent governance reforms have created new opportunities for Early Career Dentists to serve in executive roles, with four of the nine current Executive Board positions now held by young dentists.
Dr. Jaleel Allen, the Association's Early Career Dentist Representative, has played a central role in encouraging and representing young dentists throughout the initiative.
Dr. Deborah Akande, President of the Antigua and Barbuda Dental Association and National Liaison Officer to the FDI World Dental Federation, welcomed the recognition. "We are proud that Antigua and Barbuda will be represented on the world stage, and we remain committed to investing in the next generation of dental leaders," she said.
The achievement underscores that innovative ideas and committed leadership can carry international weight, regardless of an organisation's size.
The Association extended its appreciation to members, Executive Board members, lecturers, mentors, and Early Career Dentists whose dedication made the recognition possible. It expressed its intention to continue the Early Career Dentist programme as it works to strengthen the future of dentistry and oral health across Antigua and Barbuda.
