Saving​ Lives! "Because there's nothing more important than YOU, absolutely nothing​!"
Dr. Juanita Cox
ND, LDN, CNS, MSAc, BSc.
CEO & Founder
I was born in Georgetown, East Bank, Guyana, & raised in Rosignol Village. I currently reside in Maryland, USA. I am a Naturopathic Physician, Licensed Dietitian-Nutritionist, Certified Nutrition Specialist Practitioner, & Health Educator III.
Losing my mother in 2017 completely rocked my entire world. I felt as though someone pulled the rug from under my feet. No words can begin to describe the pain I felt as my mother suddenly perished right in front of me, while we were talking. I'm short on words but what I do know is that I do not want another person to experience what I've experienced on that day. Starting this nonprofit is such a great way to reach and help so many people affected with type II DM & high blood pressure. I've dedicate the rest of my time on earth in doing so.
"Because There's Nothing More important Than You, Absolutely Nothing!"
Shondell Griffith, RN
President
I was born in Georgetown, Guyana. I then migrated to the USA in 1986, along with my nuclear family-Mom (Ingrid Griffith), Dad (Late Bernard Griffith) and sister and brother. I earned my nursing degree and license in 2008, a field in which I’m very passionate and dedicated. I am always up and ready to lend a helping hand in any capacity. I consider myself to be loyal, trustworthy, loving and family oriented. I've always dreamt of one day using my gift, knowledge, and experience as a professional nurse to bring better healthcare awareness to my hometown.
Samantha Haynes, MPA, BSc.
Chief Operating Officer
I was born in Georgetown, Guyana where I lived until my thirteenth birthday and migrated to the USA. I earned my Master's of Public Administration, with a concentration in Human Resources. In addition, I earned a Bachelors of Science in Criminal Justice. I enjoy helping others. I am interested in being a part of The Velma B. Cox Foundation for Type 2 Diabetes and High Blood Pressure to help the lives of others, while fulfilling my role as Chief Operating Officer/Human Resources/Customer relations.
Lisa Jo Finstrom MS, CNS, LDN
Bilingual, Board-Certified Clinical Nutritionist
She promotes a "Back to Basics" approach to whole-food nutrition and a healthy lifestyle in her small private practice.
Shermaine Taylor MPA, BSc.
Director of Marketing/Event Planning
I was born on the Island of Barbados West Indies. I migrated to the USA at the age 15yrs old with my family seeking a life of vast opportunities provided to immigrant families. I earned my Bachelors in Sociology and further my education by obtaining my Masters in Public Administration. I have been employed with the NYC Administration Children's Services, for the past 20 years, were I currently, serves in the capacity of Child Protective Supervisor; ensuring the overall safety and well-being for NYC's most vulnerable population. My life passion is serving any population with efficiency and effective service delivery; while maintaining the mission of any organization represented by my presence with integrity, professionalism and effective leadership.
Dr. Ann Mani, ND, DHSc, MHA
Secretary
Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY to Nigerian parents, in my free time I enjoy cooking, spending quality time with my family, traveling, readying and researching innovative trends in integrative medicine. After obtaining my Bachelors degree in Biology from St. John University in 2009, I pursued a career in medicine.
I've spent 3 years volunteering in organizations such as: American Red Cross Association's Go Red for women campaign, Mentoring in Medicine as a walking/fitness group leader for middle-aged women in Harlem, tutoring/mentoring middle school students in Brooklyn charter schools & Mount Sinai's Emergency Dept. In 2012, I began a career as a Naturopathic Doctor. During my academic career, I precepted with several prestigious doctor and institutions. After graduating from University of Bridgeport College of Medicine in 2016, I continued my training at the Institute of Multidimensional Medicine.
As a board certified, licensed Naturopathic Doctor in DC, my areas of focus include: women's reproductive health, gastrointestinal disorders and autoimmune disease.
Besen Sanga, MD, PharmD
Web Admin. Specialist
I wanted to be a part of this foundation because it addresses two major health conditions that can result in dire consequences but can be prevented. It is important to bringing awareness about chronic health issues and having the individual understand that they are in control of their health and how they want to address it. For the past couple of years, I have worked in various community spaces and clinics along the east coast & overseas; having dialogues with residents and clients about a variety of public health & medicine topics and the importance of maintaining good health. I am honored to be a part of this foundation and the mission it stands for.
Dr. Samantha Williams, ND, RDN
Community Health Outreach
I am a Naturopathic Physician and a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, in the DC Metropolitan area. I hold a Bachelor’s of Science, in Nutritional Science, from Howard University and a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine degree from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine. My area of specialty is Integrative Medicine with a specialized focus on using clinical and holistic nutrition, in treating disease and illness. My main goal is to empower and support clients towards implementing healthy lifestyle and behavior changes, for improved health and well-being. I am honored to be apart of the VBC Foundation & the incredible work it does for the local community and the beautiful island of Guyana.
Sofie Tavartkiladze
Certified Health Coach
I graduated from The Institute For Integrative Nutrition in 2013, receiving my certification as a Holistic Health Practitioner. I am really passionate about food and healthy cooking. I take prided in creating the perfect combinations of "nutritious" and "delicious" dishes. I bring my passion, expertise and experience to the table and offer patients creative choices, as they strive for optimal health and wellness naturally. I'm happy to be a part of the VBC Foundation and bringing my passion for food to the table.