While more Barbadians are embracing healthier lifestyles, much more work is needed to encourage people to take responsibility for their health and wellbeing, says a fitness lifestyle event manager.
Celia Collymore, founder and project manager of Bajan Fusion, made the comments during the media launch of its upcoming Fitness Party, set for Saturday, June 13, under the theme Move. Recharge. Thrive. The event is being held in observance of Global Wellness Day and Men’s Health Month, with part of the proceeds benefiting the Men Empowerment Network Support.
Reflecting on attitudes towards health across the island, Collymore said people often fall into different categories when it comes to wellness.
“Every time I connect with people, it’s a mix of feelings,” she said. Some become motivated after seeing relatives suffer or die from health conditions and decide they want to take better care of themselves. Others are struggling but willing to make changes with the right support.
She noted that some still dismiss the importance of healthy living, with many citizens stating: “You goin’ dead anyway, I’m living my life, I can do whatever I want.”
Despite those challenges, Collymore believes attitudes have improved significantly in recent years.
“Especially since COVID and after, I find that Barbadians are really taking more charge of their lives,” she said, pointing to the growth of run clubs, sporting events and community wellness groups.
“A lot has changed from 2012 when I started Bajan Fusion to now. I’m really excited to see that Barbadians are taking charge.”
Nevertheless, she warned that the island’s high rates of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) show there is still considerable work to be done.
“There’s still a lot of people who are not taking care of themselves, and that’s really where we need to zoom in a bit more,” she said, adding that Bajan Fusion supports wider efforts by the Ministry of Health and Wellness to encourage healthier lifestyles.
Collymore stressed that even a single event can inspire lasting change.
“One day can change your life. Sometimes people just need that one opportunity, that one chance, that one conversation,” she said.
She added that maintaining healthy habits often comes down to accountability and community support.
“I think that’s the challenge where people sometimes get started and then they fall off. So how do we help them with that self-accountability, but also community, being able to check in on them and make sure they’re okay?”
Fitness Party 2026 will run from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Main Guard House and Clock Tower, Historic Garrison Savannah, St Michael. Organisers say the event will blend movement, wellness education, cultural expression, entertainment and community engagement in a family-friendly setting. Adult tickets cost $50, while children aged seven to nine pay $30. More information is available at bajanfusion.com.
(SB)
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