The founder and chief executive of CariGenetics has been chosen as one of three global presenters for the annual Ideas Remaking the World initiative run by the International Women’s Forum.

Carika Weldon was invited as one of the “outstanding” finalists to share her ideas on the world stage.

She is the second individual from the Caribbean region to receive the distinction and the first Bermudian chosen to address the gathering of international women leaders.

Dr Weldon will present on the Caribbean Genome Programme at the 2025 IWF Cornerstone Conference taking place in Cape Town, South Africa, from November 5 to 7.

“To be chosen to share my idea on a global stage representing Bermuda and the Caribbean is deeply humbling,” Dr Weldon said.

“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.”

Hosted by IWF South Africa, this year’s conference will include leaders from more than 30 countries.

Dr Weldon, a member of IWF Bermuda, will join “a select group of global visionaries presenting transformative innovations in leadership”.

She said the milestone marked a powerful moment not only for Bermuda but for the broader Caribbean community, and that her selection reflected her scientific excellence and community-first ethos.

Dr Weldon’s work has been internationally recognised for advancing genetic justice, precision medicine and community-based research, particularly among historically underrepresented populations.