The events brought together professionals from Saba, St. Eustatius, Bonaire, and the Netherlands to exchange experiences, share ideas, and explore opportunities for closer collaboration.
The conferences were jointly organized by the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), ZJCN, GGD Bonaire, Akseso, and Mental Health Caribbean (MHC).
During the first two days, Head of Public Health Menno Bakker and Public Health Nurse Tedisha Gordon attended the Sexual Health Conference, which focused on sexual health education, consultations, and public health programs. Gordon also presented on “The Journey of Sexual Health on Saba,” highlighting the island’s progress through initiatives such as the Long Live Love program and its positive impact on community awareness and engagement.
During the second event, the Heelprick Conference, Public Health Nurse Jenneke van Bussel also joined. This year marked the tenth anniversary of the neonatal screening program in the Caribbean Netherlands. Participants reflected on a decade of progress, sharing lessons learned, the benefits, and future plans to further improve quality, accessibility, and sustainability.
The week concluded with the Youth Healthcare Conference, where Gordon and van Bussel jointly presented on youth health care on Saba. Their presentation highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen preventive care, provide early support, and enhance youth participation.
“The week was an inspiring opportunity to learn from one another and explore how we can work even closer together in the future,” said Gordon.
