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Mercy Ships appoints Dr Michelle White as Chief Executive Officer

and highlights the commitment of Montrealer Dr Sherif Emil,

International Chief Medical Director

Montreal, QC, October 9, 2025 – Mercy Ships, the international humanitarian organization that operates the world's largest civilian hospital ships, announces the appointment of Dr Michelle White as Chief Executive Officer. A renowned anesthesiologist and long-time Mercy Ships volunteer, Dr. White succeeds Gary Brown and brings more than 17 years of experience in healthcare, governance and humanitarian missions to the organization.

Originally from the United Kingdom, Dr. White began her journey with Mercy Ships in 2005 and has since held various leadership roles, including Deputy Chief Medical Officer aboard the Africa Mercy®. Her expertise in pediatric anesthesia and deep understanding of the realities of global surgery make her a visionary leader to guide Mercy Ships into a new phase of growth and impact.

“This opportunity represents the culmination of my professional calling and spiritual journey,” said Dr White. “It is an honour to lead an organization I love into a new phase of service and hope. “

Strong Canadian leadership at Mercy Ships

Dr. White's appointment comes at a time when Mercy Ships also benefits from the medical leadership of Dr. Sherif Emil, Mercy Ships' International Chief Medical and Professor of Pediatric Surgery at McGill University. Based in Montreal, Dr. Emil is currently continuing his mission aboard the Africa Mercy® in Madagascar, despite political instability, alongside hundreds of volunteers from around the world.

In a recent reflection published by Mercy Ships, Dr. Emil reiterated that ‘the future of global surgery must be collaborative, inclusive and equitable.’ This message resonates particularly as he works on the ground to strengthen African health systems and support a new generation of local surgeons.

"Dr Michelle White was the first anesthetist I worked with at Mercy Ships. Her unwavering commitment to the most vulnerable patients and her vision of sustainable partnerships with African health systems make her the ideal person to guide us into the future," added Dr Emil.

About Mercy Ships

Mercy Ships operates hospital ships that deliver free surgeries and other healthcare services to those with little access to safe medical care. An international faith-based organization, Mercy Ships has focused entirely on partnering with African nations for the past three decades. Working with in-country partners, Mercy Ships also provides training to local healthcare professionals and supports the construction of in-country medical infrastructure to leave a lasting impact. Each year, more than 2,500 volunteer professionals from over 60 countries serve on board the world’s two largest non-governmental hospital ships, the Africa Mercy® and the Global Mercy™. Professionals such as surgeons, dentists, nurses, health trainers, cooks, and engineers dedicate their time and skills to accelerate access to safe surgical and anesthetic care. Mercy Ships was founded in 1978 and has offices in 16 countries, as well as an Africa Service Center in Dakar, Senegal. For more information, visit mercyships.org and follow

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Source : 

Mercy Ships Canada

For media request :

Edouard Barbeau | Advisor, Corporate Comunications, annexe

+1 514 795 5575 | edouard@annexe.media