National Youth Ambassador Christal Percival has expressed heartfelt gratitude to stakeholders and members of the public who participated in the inaugural Ambassadorial Health Fair, hosted by the Department of Youth Affairs within the Ministry of Social and Urban Transformation yesterday.
Strong Support Inaugural Ambassadorial
The event, which took place at the Multipurpose Cultural Centre drew scores of attendees, including many young people who benefited from free screenings for blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, vision, HIV, and HPV.
Partner organizations included Cocos Hotel, the Antigua and Barbuda Cancer Support Community, AIDS Secretariat, Antigua and Barbuda Defense Force, Student National Medical Association and Pediatric Club of the American University of Antigua, as well as Masa Assist, Pan American Life, and members of the National Youth Ambassador and Volunteer Corps.
Ambassador Percival emphasized the fair’s mission, saying “The purpose of this Health Fair is to encourage awareness, early detection, education, and healthier lifestyles within our community. Sometimes one screening, one conversation, or one piece of information can make a life-changing difference.”
She added that the event highlighted the power of collaboration, noting that “we are stronger when we support one another.”
Director of Youth Affairs, Dr. Jrucilla Samuel, described the initiative as “a gateway to both knowledge and personal empowerment.” She underscored the importance of preventative care, pointing out that in many grassroots communities, health is often neglected until illness strikes.
“These results are not just numbers,” the director said. “They are signals that tell us when it is time to pivot and make a change. Please remember that a health fair is not just about medical checkups—it is about checking in with ourselves and supporting communities.”
Minister of State with responsibility for Youth Affairs, Hon. Kiz Johnson, also addressed the gathering. She reminded participants that health must remain a national priority, especially for young people facing increasing social, emotional, academic, and economic pressures.
“Good health is not simply the absence of illness. It is physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being. It is the foundation upon which strong families, productive communities, and successful nations are built,” she said.
Minister Johnson further stressed that investing in youth health is one of the country’s greatest commitments, adding that “healthy young people are better equipped to learn, to lead, to serve, and to realize their full potential.” She reaffirmed the Ministry’s dedication to supporting programmes that promote positive youth engagement, healthy lifestyles, education, empowerment, and personal development.
The inaugural Ambassadorial Health Fair was hailed as a resounding success, setting the stage for future initiatives that place community wellness and youth empowerment at the forefront of national development.
