标签： Barbados

The Villages at Coverley in Barbados transformed into a vibrant celebration of World Animal Day this past Saturday, thanks to the Paws for Health event organized by Action for Animals Barbados. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., the playing field and pavilion buzzed with activity, offering a unique blend of veterinary care, education, and advocacy, all centered around a shared love for animals. Pet owners flocked to the venue throughout the morning, some with energetic puppies in tow, others guiding their cherished family pets to their annual check-ups. The event’s appeal lay in its promise of free health services, engaging activities, and valuable insights into responsible pet ownership. Dr. Michelle Bell of the Central Veterinary Clinic emphasized the event’s mission to make essential veterinary services more accessible to the community. ‘Not everyone can easily access a vet, so this event helps bridge that gap,’ she explained. ‘We’re giving people the opportunity to get their dogs examined, vaccinated, and to ask questions; but more importantly, we are helping them understand what real, long-term care looks like.’ The veterinary team provided free health checks, vaccinations, nail trimming, and consultations, while also educating pet owners on nutrition, parasite prevention, and early detection of illnesses like parvovirus. Beyond medical care, the event celebrated the deep bond between humans and their pets, fostering a sense of community driven by compassion. Gail Hunte, an organizer from Action for Animals Barbados, highlighted the broader goal of promoting responsible pet ownership. ‘It is about more than check-ups and vaccinations. Rather, it is about changing mindsets and helping owners see their pets as part of the family, deserving of care, structure, and love,’ she said. Volunteers also shared information on adoption, licensing, and community outreach programs, aiming to reduce the number of strays and neglected animals in Barbados. The event’s success underscored the Barbadian community’s affection for their animals, with attendees expressing gratitude for the free services and the chance to learn more about pet care. As the day concluded, the sense of accomplishment was palpable. Paws for Health not only provided essential services but also raised awareness, reminding the community that the health of animals reflects the care and compassion of the people around them.

In response to escalating youth violence and broader societal issues in Barbados, the non-profit organization Supreme Counselling for Personal Development has introduced a transformative initiative titled *Building Hope, Changing Lives*. The program was officially unveiled during a welcoming ceremony at The St Michael School auditorium on Saturday evening, signaling the start of a five-year commitment to mentorship, counseling, life-skills training, and community engagement for participants and their families. Shawn Clarke, the organization’s Chief Executive Officer, emphasized the program’s mission to provide stability, belonging, and personal growth for young people. Addressing parents and guardians, Clarke assured them of unwavering support throughout the journey. He described the initiative as a deeply rooted effort, born from sacrifice and dedication, aimed at empowering youth to lead lives of purpose, dignity, and peace. Clarke acknowledged the challenges ahead but urged families to remain steadfast, promising to stand by them during difficult times and celebrate their successes. He also dismissed critics, highlighting Supreme Counselling’s focus on building and redeeming lives. The program represents the organization’s latest effort to address behavioral challenges among youth and advocate for vulnerable families, reinforcing its commitment to fostering positive change in the community.

Barbados is embarking on a groundbreaking shift in its education system, moving away from traditional rote learning toward a more interactive, student-driven approach. Minister of Educational Transformation Chad Blackman unveiled this ambitious initiative during a thanksgiving service at the Sanctuary Empowerment Centre, marking the start of Education Month. Under the theme ‘Nothing is Impossible,’ Blackman emphasized the need to foster creativity, curiosity, and real-world skills among students. ‘The days of teachers simply lecturing from A to Z are over,’ he declared. ‘Students must now engage in presentations, collaborative projects, and technology-driven learning. Schools must become vibrant, interactive spaces that unlock each child’s potential.’

Blackman highlighted the importance of modernizing school infrastructure to support these innovative methods. ‘Our schools must be purpose-built, modern, and clean—places where teachers thrive, children grow, and communities connect,’ he said, acknowledging the challenges of this transition but stressing its necessity. The reforms aim not only to address current educational needs but also to prepare students for an unpredictable future. ‘We don’t know what jobs, technologies, or challenges they will face, but we know they must be adaptable, creative, and resilient,’ Blackman explained.

Chief Education Officer Dr. Ramona Archer-Bradshaw echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the moral and emotional dimensions of education. Quoting an African proverb, she said, ‘The child who is not embraced by the village will burn it down to feel its warmth. If we create a village where every child is seen, heard, and valued, we will ignite their hearts with purpose, pride, and hope.’ Archer-Bradshaw stressed that education must be fair, inclusive, and relevant, warning that neglecting its moral aspect could have societal repercussions. ‘To educate a man in mind and not in morals is to educate a menace to society,’ she said, quoting Theodore Roosevelt.

The event also featured guest speaker Joel Manning, who called for faith and a renewed mindset in the transformation process. ‘Transformation starts with God,’ Manning asserted. ‘Before making any decisions in education, we must seek His authority. Putting God back into the classroom and into ourselves is essential for true change. Nothing is impossible when we begin with Him.’ The service concluded with musical performances, including a steelpan solo, and a collective commitment to redefining education in Barbados.