The Antigua and Barbuda Nurses Association (ABNA) has officially unveiled its comprehensive list of nominees for the upcoming 2026 General Election, setting the stage for a significant leadership transition within the organization. The candidate roster reveals several prominent figures vying for key executive roles that will shape the future direction of nursing advocacy and healthcare policy in the nation.
Leading the presidential ticket is Laurellyn Williams, who has been nominated for the association’s highest office. The vice presidential positions feature Kesha Willock as First Vice President candidate and Emelda Atilla Peters-Smith contending for Second Vice President. The critical role of Public Relations Officer has Oona Cabral Knight as the nominated candidate.
Notably, Zena Knight Barnes appears multiple times in the nomination list, being put forward for three separate positions: Secretary, Treasurer, and Executive Member—a rare occurrence that highlights her extensive involvement and recognized capabilities within the nursing community. The Secretary position features additional candidates including Cavelle Morris Willis and Eletha George.
The Treasurer nomination includes Alden Robins alongside Knight Barnes, while the Assistant Treasurer position has Petals Adams Nedd as the sole nominee. For Assistant Secretary, the association has nominated Wanda Ferris and Althea Georges.
The Executive Members slate represents a broad cross-section of nursing leadership, featuring McBert Arthur, Jenita Cuffy, Sonia Farrell Willock, Mitchell Sealey, Tanasha Roberts, Nerissa Skepple Thomas, Eletha George, and Leonise Taylor alongside Knight Barnes. This diverse group of candidates brings together experienced nursing professionals from various specialties and backgrounds, ensuring comprehensive representation within the association’s governing body.
The 2026 election represents a crucial moment for ABNA as it addresses evolving healthcare challenges, nursing workforce development, and the ongoing professional advancement of nurses throughout Antigua and Barbuda. The election outcomes will determine the leadership that will advocate for nursing interests, negotiate working conditions, and influence national health policy formulation in the coming years.