Sharon Allen
Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer
Sharon Allen is Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of World Telehealth Initiative (WTI), where she is advancing equitable access to healthcare by connecting volunteer medical specialists with underserved communities around the world through telehealth. A recognized leader in global health innovation, she is dedicated to strengthening local health systems by building clinical capacity - not simply delivering care.
Having traveled extensively to hospitals and clinics in low-resource settings, Sharon has worked alongside healthcare leaders to better understand the challenges they face and to develop sustainable solutions that meet local needs. Under her leadership, WTI has grown to more than 50 partner hospitals and clinics in 18 countries, pioneering an innovative telehealth model that mobilizes volunteer physicians across more than 50 medical specialties to provide education, mentorship and specialist consultations that empower local clinicians and improve patient care.
Sharon has built strategic partnerships with health systems, governments, nonprofits, and technology leaders to expand access to specialized medical expertise worldwide. She is a frequent speaker at international healthcare conferences, including the Forbes Healthcare Summit, and has delivered keynote addresses such as Nigeria's Healthcare Today Forum.
In recognition of her leadership, Sharon was appointed to the World Health Organization's Digital Health Board of Advisors and Roster of Experts, where she is contributing to the development of the WHO Telehealth Roadmap for the Underserved. In 2023, she received the United Nations Association Peace Prize for her contributions to advancing global health and peace through innovative healthcare solutions.