She will be one of three global presenters at international forum
Dr Carika Weldon, Founder and CEO of CariGenetics, has been officially selected as one of three global presenters for the International Women’s Forum (IWF) annual “Ideas Remaking the World” Initiative. Following a global call for proposals, IWF reviewed submissions and identified three outstanding finalists to share their ideas on the world stage. Dr Weldon will present on the Caribbean Genome Program at the 2025 IWF Cornerstone Conference, taking place 5–7 November in Cape Town, South Africa. She is the second individual from the Caribbean region to receive this distinction — and the first Bermudian ever chosen to address this renowned gathering of international women leaders.
Hosted by IWF South Africa, this year’s conference will welcome leaders from over 30 countries. Dr Weldon, a member of IWF Bermuda, will join a select group of global visionaries presenting transformative innovations in leadership.
This milestone marks a powerful moment not only for Bermuda, but for the broader Caribbean community. Dr Weldon’s work has been internationally recognised for advancing genetic justice, precision medicine, and community-based research — particularly among historically underrepresented populations. Her selection reflects both the scientific excellence and community-first ethos that define her legacy.
“To be chosen to share my idea on a global stage representing Bermuda and the Caribbean is deeply humbling. This isn’t just a win for me — it’s a win for every girl who’s ever been told her voice was too small or her dreams too big. I carry the hopes of a region with me to South Africa, and I’m honoured to show the world what Caribbean science, resilience, and leadership look like. My presentation will spotlight the intersection of genomic science and social justice, amplifying Caribbean stories and solutions on a world stage.”
About the IWF Cornerstone Conference
The International Women’s Forum (IWF) is a global network of preeminent women leaders from more than 30 nations. Its Cornerstone Conference is one of the most influential leadership events in the world, bringing together trailblazers in business, science, politics, and culture to share solutions that shape our future. The 2025 conference in Cape Town marks the return of the event to the African continent, with themes focused on innovation, equity, and global impact.
About CariGenetics
CariGenetics is a pioneering genomic research organization dedicated to unlocking the genetic potential of individuals of Caribbean ancestry. Through personalised wellness solutions, cutting edge diagnostics, and regional scientific insights, CariGenetics is redefining precision healthcare across the Caribbean and beyond.
