April 2026

Dear friends,

On this World Health Day, as we also mark the conclusion of World Health Worker Week, I am honored to celebrate the extraordinary individuals who embody the very best of global health service.

Today, Health Volunteers Overseas is proud to announce the recipients of the HVO Golden Apple Award. These remarkable educators and providers have demonstrated exceptional commitment to strengthening health systems and improving patient care worldwide. Through their dedication to teaching, mentorship, and partnership, they are advancing global health in meaningful and lasting ways.

This year’s honorees have made outstanding contributions across a range of critical disciplines, including oncology, nutrition, internal medicine, mental health, rehabilitation, and nursing. Their work not only transforms clinical practice but also equips local health professionals with the skills and confidence to better serve their communities. The ripple effects of their efforts will be felt for generations to come.

At a time when the global health workforce continues to face unprecedented challenges, these leaders remind us of what is possible through collaboration, compassion, and a shared commitment to education. We are deeply grateful for their service and proud to recognize their achievements.

I am also pleased to share an exciting organizational update. HVO recently welcomed Milena Ristovska as our new Director of Development and Partnerships. Milena brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for global health, and we are thrilled to have her leadership as we continue to grow our impact and strengthen our partnerships around the world.

Thank you for being part of the HVO community and for your continued support of our mission. Together, we are building a stronger, more resilient global health workforce.

Sincerely,

April

April Pinner, MSPH, RD

Executive Director

HVO’s 2026 Golden Apple Awards

The quality of world health depends on our health workers, and our health workers depend on their training. We invite you to invest in their education.

Your support helps equip dedicated providers with the skills, knowledge, and mentorship they need to save lives and strengthen health systems. Together, we can ensure that no matter where a patient lives, they have access to well-trained, compassionate care. Stand with HVO in building a healthier, more equitable world one health worker at a time.

Welcome HVO’s New Director of Development & Partnerships

Milena Ristovska joined Health Volunteers Overseas (HVO) as Director of Development & Partnerships in February 2026. A former academic-turned-fundraising leader, she brings over a decade of experience spanning higher education, global development, and nonprofit strategy. Milena has held senior roles at organizations including Stand Together, Share Our Strength, ZERO Prostate Cancer, and Accion International, and has consulted for the World Bank and IFC since 2015. She holds a DSc in Economics, MSc in Economic Development & International Finance, and MSc in Engineering Management and is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Scrum Master (CSM), and Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE).