On April 5, 2023, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Mr. António Guterres, appointed First Lady Mellisa Santokhi-Seenacherry to the Advisory Board of Eminent Persons on Zero-Waste. . This advisory board plays an important role in supporting zero-waste initiatives in the context of sustainable development. The Advisory Board is chaired by the First Lady of Turkey, Emine Erdoğan.

The first meeting was held on Wednesday 26 July, which was held virtually with all members of the Board, together with Guy Ryder, Under-Secretary-General for Policy. All members were given the opportunity to introduce themselves, share their expertise and express their expectations of the Advisory Board.

As a member of the Advisory Board, the First Lady is expected to promote zero-waste not only in Suriname and the region, but globally. It is the intention of the advisory board to carry out various projects to promote zero-waste.