The Caribbean Association of Pharmacists (CAP) recently hosted its Annual Caribbean Conference (CAP CON) under the theme “Pharmacy 2025 and Beyond: Transforming Healthcare through Innovation, Accountability, and Research.”
The event brought together pharmacists and corporate organisations from across North America, the Caribbean, and as far south as Guyana and Belize. There was a delegation of 10 Grenadians: 5 pharmacists and 5 pharmacy students.
The conference culminated with a gala and awards ceremony celebrating excellence, research, and professional contributions in pharmacy. This year, Grenada took centre stage as Kelvin Dragon, RPh, received 2 prestigious awards for his outstanding service to the profession and the wider Caribbean community.
Pharmacy Practice Pioneer Award
Sponsored by Carlisle Laboratories, this award honours pharmacists who emphasise the delivery of clinical services in their professional practice.
Dragon has served in community pharmacy for over a decade at Mitchell’s Health and Wellness, where he spearheaded numerous community health initiatives. His work includes health lectures at schools, churches, and corporations, as well as outreach programmes aimed at increasing awareness and prevention. “This award is recognition of the importance of pharmacy practice in community pharmacy. I am humbled to know my work in Grenada is contributing to a healthier society,” said Dragon.
Caribbean Pharmacist of the Year
The most distinguished honour of the evening, this award recognises a pharmacist whose service exemplifies dedication to the profession and Caribbean society.
Dragon is currently serving his second consecutive term as President of the Grenada Association of Pharmacists (GAP), where he has revitalised the organisation, expanded membership, and strengthened the local fraternity’s engagement with CAP.
Notably, he led the CAP Pharmacy Students’ Seminar at T A Marryshow Community College (TAMCC), which significantly increased the participation of Grenadian pharmacists at the regional level. He has also served on the Grenada Pharmacy Council, helping to shape national policies that govern pharmacy practice.
In addition to his leadership roles, Dragon is Managing Director of Emporio Grenada Limited, a pharmaceutical importer and distributor that has become a vital link in Grenada’s medical supply chain, ensuring the availability of life-saving medications. “To be named Caribbean Pharmacist of the Year is not just a personal honour, but a reflection of the commitment and quality of Grenadian pharmacists. To be a leader of men is hard; this award does not define my life or work, but it certainly gives it validation,” Dragon added.
Grenadian Pharmacist Lydia Andrews-Duncan, RPh, was elected as a council member of the Caribbean Association of Pharmacists (CAP). Andrews-Duncan will serve as a council member for the next 2 years, representing Grenada at the regional level. In this capacity, she will join other council members in providing input and oversight for the projects and activities of the Caribbean Association of Pharmacists, as directed by the president. Her election reflects not only her professional dedication but also the growing influence of Grenadian pharmacists in regional pharmacy leadership.
Grenada on the global stage
These 2 awards shine a spotlight not only on Dragon’s accomplishments but also on Grenada’s ability to produce medical professionals of exceptional quality. His recognition demonstrates that the “Spice Isle” continues to make meaningful contributions to healthcare at both regional and global levels.
GAP
