The Tribune

Alpha kappa alpha sorority inc

In recognition of Suicide Prevention Month and in preparation for World Mental Health Day on October 10, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated Eta Psi Omega Chapter has officially launched its Sunflowers Mental Health Group, with a comprehensive workshop aimed at equipping members with the tools and knowledge to support at-risk youth and vulnerable community groups. This workshop, held on September 26, marks a pivotal step in the chapter’s commitment to enhancing mental health awareness and outreach within the community.

The Sunflowers Mental Health Group is an innovative initiative designed to train chapter members in mental health awareness, empowering them to offer effective support to those in need. The programme, aligned with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority’s international Empower Our Families initiative, seeks to foster a greater understanding of mental health challenges and promote wellness, particularly among at-risk youth.

As part of the chapter’s 2024 focus, this initiative is specifically aimed at supporting the Ministry of Education’s TAPS Programme (Targeted Assistance Programme for Students), which addresses the mental and emotional well-being of students in The Bahamas. By completing the workshop, over 20 members of the chapter are now better equipped to serve and support the community, making a meaningful impact in the lives of those who are most vulnerable.

Chapter President Mrs. Phylicia Laramore-Ferguson emphasised the significance of the initiative, stating: “This workshop continues our ongoing efforts in mental health support. We are dedicated to providing the necessary care and resources to those in need and look forward to making a lasting impact on our community. By strengthening our ability to address mental health challenges, we are better positioned to serve at-risk youth and their families.”

The workshop was hosted by Erin Hill featured prominent mental health professionals, including Dr Tameka Johnson-Dames and Dr Davina Knowles-Robinson, both of whom are recognised for their contributions to mental health advocacy in The Bahamas. Their expertise guided members through key areas such as mental health first aid, recognising early signs of mental health issues, suicide prevention strategies, and effective methods for supporting individuals in crisis.

Empower Our Families chair Samantha Anderson shared her thoughts on the workshop: “Through the Sunflowers Mental Health Group, we are taking actionable steps to empower our families and communities. This workshop has given our members the tools they need to be proactive mental health advocates, helping us address the needs of at-risk youth and build stronger support systems.”

Sunflower Mental Health Committee chair D’Asante Small added: “This initiative is more than just a programme; it’s a movement toward breaking the stigma surrounding mental health. We are preparing our members to be first responders in their communities, offering guidance, support, and compassion to those who need it most.”

As the world prepares to observe World Mental Health Day on October 10, 2024, Eta Psi Omega Chapter is committed to raising awareness about mental health issues and providing continuous support for those affected. This initiative is part of the chapter’s broader commitment to the Empower Our Families programme, an international Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated initiative aimed at strengthening family structures and improving the well-being of communities through targeted interventions.

Bahamas Girl Guides Association

The Cookie Committee chaired by Zelma Albury and Janice Johnson has set an ambitious goal of selling minimum of 2,000 cases  of cookies. Sunflowers, Brownies,  Guides  Rangers, Leaders, Council Members and parents  from around The Bahamas are assisting in this annual fund raising activity.

For over 45 years, the funds have been used to maintain and develop the Girl Guide  Campsite, a beloved natural reserve enjoyed by members of the association. 

Seven different flavours can be obtained from Guide Headquarters or from the Leaders at various locations. Contact our headquarters at 3224342  and email bggassociation @ gmail.com.

Rotary Club of South East Nassau

Each September, the Rotary Club of South East Nassau (RCSEN) celebrates its club’s anniversary and their past presidents. The Roger Kelty Education Scholarship was launched a month earlier, announcing a six-year scholarship awarded to junior high student Allan Nairn. Roger Kelty, who passed away in December 2022, was a well-known and loved educator. In his Rotary life, Kelty was a past assistant governor for Rotary District 7020 and past president of the RCSEN club, which received a donation for the Roger Kelty Scholarship Fund from his children Keith and Kyrene Kelty at the birthday celebrations. On hand to present the cheque were Kyrene and Corey McBride.

The Kelty children Keith and Kyrene donated a cheque to their father’s Roger Kelty Scholarship Fund at a September 18, 2024, Past President and Birthday Meeting.  

• The Rotary Club of South East Nassau commemorated its 48th anniversary on September 18. Several past presidents who have significantly contributed to the club’s legacy joined the celebration. Bristol Wines and Spirits offered a wine tasting and cupcakes from Original Swiss Pastry and Rotarian Kelly-Anne Frendo were favorites. Denny Curry, a charter member and past president (1980-1981), attended the anniversary celebration with his son, Dr Chris Curry. Rotary International issued the RCSEN’s charter on July 19, 1976, and charter president Edwin L Deal received it at a banquet on September 26, 1976.

• The Rotary Club of South East Nassau is notable for being the first club in New Providence to admit women. Rowena Bethel joined in April 1995, followed by Azaleta Ishmael-Newry and the late Linda McSweeney, whose husband, Jerome, was a past president (1979-1979). Many other women followed - the first female president was Carla McCombe in 2002-2003 and recently, the club saw Pam Culmer, Michelle Lewis and Doretha Moss join. 

• The club has a strong commitment to community service. Its projects include the Sandilands Robert Smith Ward Christmas Party, breakfast, back-to-school supplies and in the past, a commercial stove for the kitchen and infrastructure work to The All-Saints Camp, and support for agricultural programs at Andros Central High School, feeding programs, and assistance to organisations like the Bahamas Red Cross, the Salvation Army’s Erin. H Gilmore School for the Blind, and the Model United Nations Simulation program. The Rotary Club of South East Nassau recently completed the renovation of the library at Columbus Primary School. The Club recently completed the renovation of the library for Columbus Primary School.  Rotarians are known as people of action and some of their initiatives support the youth and literacy, the environment, mental health, and world peace. Their annual Edwin Smiley Bastian Steak out was a great success with the upcoming Dancing Under the Stars with the Long Island Connection Band slated for October 18, 2024, at the Collin Estate on Shirley Street. 

• The Rotary Club of South East Nassau collaborates with various Rotary partners, including the Early Act Club of Columbus Primary, the Interact Club of Doris Johnson High School and St Andrew’s School, and the Rotaract Club of South East Nassau Centennial.