Antigua and Barbuda was represented by Junior Minister of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs, Senator Michael Joseph at a landmark intergenerational health dialogue convened by the Commonwealth Secretariat in May 2025. The event brought together more than 90 young professionals from across the Commonwealth and was held on the margins of the 37th Commonwealth Health Ministers Meeting.

Senator Joseph represented Antigua and Barbuda in critical discussions focused on strengthening global health and care workforces. His intervention underscored the urgent need to empower young people with more than a voice — but with the tools, platforms, and authority to lead.

“Today’s intergenerational dialogue highlights the vital energy and ideas young people bring, who too often remain underrepresented in decision-making,” Senator Joseph stated. “Systems must be established that go beyond inviting youth to speak, providing them with the resources and platforms to drive meaningful change.”

Senator Joseph also reaffirmed Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to advocating for strategic investment in health systems at the highest political levels — a collective response necessary to meet global demands while preserving and strengthening national health workforces.

Hosted by the Commonwealth Secretariat, the dialogue assembled young health professionals from countries including Canada, India, Namibia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Tanzania, Uganda, and the United Kingdom.

Antigua and Barbuda stands in solidarity with other Commonwealth nations in recognizing the value of intergenerational collaboration and the need for forward-thinking policies that invest in youth capacity and leadership.