#United States #Washington, D.C. #Safe Kids #Sadiqa Kendi #Childhood Safety

Dr. Sadiqa Kendi Takes the Helm at Safe Kids Worldwide

In a significant move to enhance child safety initiatives, Dr. Sadiqa A.I. Kendi, MD, MPH, has been appointed as the Chief Medical Officer for Safe Kids Worldwide, a nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing unintentional injuries in children aged 0-19. This announcement was made by Torine Creppy, the president of Safe Kids Worldwide, on January 30, 2025.

Dr. Kendi, a renowned expert in injury prevention and pediatric emergency medicine, will also serve as the Associate Division Chief of Academic Affairs and Research in the Division of Emergency Medicine at Children's National Hospital in Washington, D.C., which acts as the parent organization for Safe Kids Worldwide. In this dual role, Dr. Kendi aims to leverage her extensive experience to significantly reduce unintentional injuries across Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia—the primary regions served by Children’s National.

A Visionary Leader for a Critical Mission

With an impressive background in child safety research and advocacy, Dr. Kendi is set to create and implement effective strategies that address the leading causes of childhood injuries. Her focus will include critical areas such as motor vehicle crashes, drownings, and Sudden Unexplained Infant Death (SUID). Torine Creppy lauded Dr. Kendi as a visionary leader whose advocacy for lifesaving public policies will have a direct impact on protecting children from preventable injuries.

Dr. Kendi voiced her commitment to this essential mission, stating, "These new roles perfectly combine my passions for supporting pediatric emergency physicians and ensuring the well-being of children and their families." Her views resonate deeply with the shared belief that every child deserves to grow up healthy and safe.

Comprehensive Approach to Child Safety

In her new position, Dr. Kendi plans to lead initiatives that not only address immediate injury prevention but also foster long-lasting health outcomes for children. She will collaborate with Safe Kids Worldwide leaders to ensure equitable health opportunities for children from all backgrounds. This dual focus on immediate prevention and broader systemic change will be critical in areas disproportionately affected by childhood injuries.

Dr. Kendi’s academic credentials are impressive. She earned her medical degree from the Yale School of Medicine and completed her pediatric training at the Social Pediatrics Program at Montefiore, where she also served as chief resident. Furthermore, she pursued a fellowship in pediatric emergency medicine at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, showcasing her dedication to the field.

In addition to her clinical roles, Dr. Kendi is a certified child passenger safety technician and actively participates in the executive committee of the American Academy of Pediatrics Council on Injury Violence and Poison Prevention. Her rich blend of clinical practice and advocacy positions her uniquely to drive significant changes within the organization and the communities it serves.

Commitment Towards Future Generations

Safe Kids Worldwide plays a crucial role in building effective support systems for injury prevention. Under Dr. Kendi’s leadership, the organization is poised to strengthen its research initiatives and advocacy efforts, ensuring that children’s safety remains a top priority.

Children's National Hospital, which has a rich history dating back to 1870, has a long-standing reputation for excellence in pediatric care. This collaboration is expected to foster substantial advancements not just in the organization but also in the field of pediatric emergency medicine overall.

As Dr. Kendi embarks on this pivotal journey, she carries with her the hope of countless families striving for a safer future for their children. The work ahead is as challenging as it is rewarding, and with her leadership, Safe Kids Worldwide is set to make a profound difference in the lives of children across America.

For more information on Safe Kids Worldwide and their mission, you can visit their official website at safekids.org.