Issue #5
Health and Nutrition
with
Clair Haynes
Women’s Health: Everybody’s Business Workplace Happiness
10 07 30
Health & wellness live your best life now! www.bcsi.org.bb
T h e T r a d e i n S e r v i c e s M a g a z i n e o f t h e B CS I
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In 2015 the global wellness tourism economy was valued at approximately 3.7 trillion US dollars
gold standard assures patients that the facility
(See Matrix Below). Many developing countries
international credentialing body should have a
like Malaysia, Thailand, and India are already taking advantage of this growing trend in
and treatment is world class and this ultimately translates into higher adoption by international clients and obviously contributes to business growth and success. The recent International Accreditation at the Gold level of the Queen Elizabeth Hospital by Accreditation Canada, an positive impact on that institution as well.
Health and Wellness therefore present a BIG
2.Inadequate professional indemnity insurance and public liability insurance coverage carried by our professional service firms.
opportunity for Barbados and the rest of the
Insurance is, of course, necessary in order
Caribbean to diversify its tourism product
to mitigate risks associated with treating
offerings, increase earnings of much needed
international and even domestic clients who
foreign exchange and in general improve
are becoming extremely litigious in their
economic performance. Notwithstanding the
pursuit of customer satisfaction. It may also
persistent and prevailing challenges to our
be necessary to enhance regulations making
national economy, as a country, Barbados
it mandatory for service providers to carry a
remains a viable choice for the development of
certain minimum coverage on their businesses.
tourism.
a robust health and wellness sector given our infrastructure and human resource capacity.
3. An undeveloped Barbados/Caribbean brand.
Certainly, Medical Tourism; Wellness Tourism;
It is important that we cultivate a unique home-
Fitness
&
grown brand which incorporates the diverse
Alternative Medicine; and the Spa Industry
culture of Barbados and the Caribbean including
represent niche areas which we are well
our natural environment, foods, plants and
positioned as a country to exploit.
other local resources. We have a competitive
&
Mind-Body;
Complementary
advantage based on our geography which we Previous research by the BCSI, however,
can also exploit to our advantage.
identified a few challenges standing in the way of further development of this emerging sector.
The BCSI sees the Health and Wellness sector as a priority and has been making a positive
1. Lack of international accreditation and recognition of many of our institutions.
contribution to its development. By the end of
As an encouraging example, the Barbados
and Health Care (PBHC) Clinic and School of
Fertility Center is the only Joint Commission International (JCI) accredited IVF unit in the Caribbean region. There is no doubt that this JCI
EDITOR’s notes
2017 in partnership with the Personal Body Holistic Therapies, the Coalition had provided CVQ training in Massage Therapy, and in the International Therapy Examination Council
GRAHAM CLARKE
Graham Clarke is a Chartered Marketer and Current Executive Director of BCSI
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(ITEC) Diploma programs of Aromatherapy, Reflexology
explores opportunities for investment within the Health
and Sports Massage for a group of sixty (60) persons
and Wellnes sector and Dr. Angela Moore – Certified
under the Government of Barbados/ IDB’s Skills for the
Holistic Therapist takes a look at ‘alternative medicine’ in
Future Program administered by the Competency Based
Barbados. We also feature Ms. Claire Haynes, nutritional
Training Fund (CBTF).
coach and fitness expert at Surfside Wellness Centre who shares her thoughts on nutrition and wellness.
Since then, we have been able to mobilise the graduates
A brief overview of the eighth annual ophthalmology
of those programs into forming the Caribbean ITEC
subspecialty Conference which welcomed both regional
Association of Holistic Therapies and facilitated a soft
and international physicians, health professionals
launch of that Association in March of this year. We
and medical students to Barbados in February is also
are also planning a key event for the sector later this
included. The Director and brain child of this conference
year and continue to seek funding for the training of
is Dr Kim Jebodhsingh, an Oculoplastic Specialist here
another cohort of young people interested in becoming
in Barbados. The EXPORTER salutes her as an innovator
entrepreneurs in this sector. This group wants to see
who is raising the bar for her profession and the health
the development of a cadre of internationally certified
and wellness sector in Barbados on a whole.
and qualified health and wellness practitioners who are capable of servicing the demands of the tourism
We hope you are enlightened by these pages and
sector as well as the domestic market. We certainly look
encouraged to support and push this sector which has
forward to the contribution they will make towards the
the potential to help transform the economy of Barbados
professionalisation of the sector.
and contribute to a more sustainable tourist product for the country and the rest of the Caribbean Region.
In this edition of the EXPORTER, we hear the views of Ms. Sandra Payne (CEO of Invest Barbados) who
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Contents HEALTH AND WELLNESS: LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE NOW! 05 Investment Opportunities in the Health and Wellness Sector
07 Women’s Health: Everybody’s Business 10 Health and Nutrition 14 Eye Health and You 16 Mental Illness Among Black People In England 18 Fitness and Business untold Stories 24 Advancing Alternative Medicine In Barbados member’s corner 28 Bringing Complementary Health to the Barbadian Public
30 Money Alone Can’t Buy Workplace Happiness
in-house news 36 Staff Retreat 2018
HEALTH and WELLNESS live your best life now!
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INVESTment opportunities IN the HEALTH AND WELLNESS sector
For several centuries, Barbados has earned and retained sterling status as a premier holiday destination, offering a
unique blend of charm, hospitality and therapy. Added to this, Barbados has built a solid reputation internationally, as a preferred international business domicile, providing investors with a good location from which to enhance their global competitive advantage. With its growing treaty network, Barbados continues to attract an expanding roster of businesses of substance. The island offers educated human resources, a reliable, investor-friendly environment that is well regulated, a stable political and social climate, as well as an excellent quality of life. For individuals, Barbados has proven to be a destination that is favourable to recuperation from medical treatment and conducive to relaxation and rejuvenation. The tourism and international business sectors are two important pillars of the economy; as both are leading foreign exchange earners. The nexus between these two sectors continues to strengthen.
sandra payne
According to the World Health Organization, health is “a state of physical,
Chief Executive Officer (Ag) Invest Barbados
mental and social well-being and not merely the complete absence of disease or infirmity.” The health and wellness tourism industry, therefore, generally includes products and services made accessible to people travelling either nationally or internationally from their normal place of residence for health-related reasons. It provides a necessary level of comfort to foreign investors, when a country offers a similar standard
Investors continue to explore the Barbados value proposition to serve growing demand...
and range of health care services available in their home country. Barbados is ideally poised to deliver health and wellness tourism services, as well as to attract investment. Committed to the growth of its health and wellness industry, the government encourages best practices in every sphere. This includes insistence on standards and accreditation that are monitored by the country’s leading regulatory body – the Ministry of Health; as well as the Barbados Association of Medical Practitioners, the Paramedical Council and the Caribbean Spa and Wellness Association Barbados Chapter.
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Health and Wellness Services
Investment Opportunities
Currently, Barbados offers a range of health and wellness
The increasing awareness of the need for enhanced
services, including assisted reproductive techniques,
social well-being, spiraling medical costs and delays in
cardiology, ophthalmology, general and joint surgery,
service delivery, globally, continue to precipitate the need
traditional Chinese medicine, osteopathy, massage
for patients to travel for excellent health-care services.
therapy, podiatry, physiotherapy, personal fitness and
Barbados, a recognised leading provider of health care
training among others. The following table highlights
services in the Caribbean continues to emerge both as
some of the health and wellness services in Barbados.
a desirable destination and location for travellers and investors, respectively. Investors continue to explore the Barbados value proposition to serve growing demand particularly from markets including the Caribbean, North
facility
Service
America and Europe. In recent times, there has been a
Bai Feng Huang TCM Clinic
Chinese medicine
healthy interest in the establishment of hospitals, clinics
Barbados Fertility Center
IVF treatment
Bayview Hospital
Private hospital
SILS Dialysis Barbados
Dialysis clinic
Bracebridge Medical Centre
Cardiology services
MD Alliance Surgery and
Ambulatory care
Birthing Centre
centre
Maas Clinic
Osteopathic
of
healthcare
institutions, and a supportive government, all add to
Nordic Wellness
Health and fitness
Barbados’ appeal as an ideal place to invest in health and
Premiere Surgical Centre
Ambulatory care
wellness services.
centre Sandy Crest Medical Centre
Medical centre
Spinal Correction Centre
Chiropractic services
Sparman Clinic
Non-invasive and Interventional Cardiology services
The Queen Elizabeth Hospital
Public hospital
and spas, as well as other wellness and fitness centres. An established hospitable environment, year-round idyllic weather, a wide range of leisure activities, competitive business
environment,
world-class
including
accommodation,
excellent
infrastructure international
accessibility, affordable services, an expanding number internationally
certified/accredited
professionals/
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s ’ n e Women’s m Wo h Health t l a e H Everybody’s business
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Imagine experiencing debilitating pelvic pain most days in a month. Now imagine how frustrated you would be if this pain prevents you from completing the simplest of everyday tasks. Finally, consider the fact that this pain is more prevalent during the most productive years of your life and thus prevents you from thriving in your profession.
WOMEN’s HEALTH: EVERYBODY’s BUSINESS
This is the situation most women diagnosed with Endometriosis face. Endometriosis is defined as a “long-term, disabling condition, and a common cause of chronic pelvic pain”. The gold standard of diagnosis requires laparoscopic surgery through which surgeons identify “endometrial-like” cells or deposits on organs or tissues outside of the uterus such as on the ovaries, in the Fallopian tubes and on parts of the digestive system. These cells respond to the hormonal cycle similarly to those found in the uterus. However, the extra-uterine cells cannot effectively leave the body and instead stay on the organ or tissue, causing inflammation and growths known as adhesions can develop, leading to organs “sticking” together. The condition can range from minimal to severe in stages, but these do not relate to the pain the individual will experience, but rather the amount and location of deposits found.
Julia Mandeville President of the Barbados Association of Endometriosis & P.C.O.S.
It is reported to affect 176 million females worldwide - this is approximately 1 in 10 females. For most females, the most commonly experienced symptom is the chronic and debilitating pelvic pain which may or may not be taken seriously by their peers and medical practitioners, as our society has been guided to believe this pain is normal in females during menstruation. However, since the recognition of Endometriosis and its growing list of symptoms, many international studies and agencies have started to dispel the myth that this pain is normal. As a society, we now also now need to move past dismissing our female population when they try to inform us of the pain that they experience during their menstrual cycle, as it may have a more serious underlying cause.
contributor profile Julia Mandeville holds a BSc (Hons) in Biology with Microbiology from the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus, Barbados and a Masters of Public Health-Global Health with Merit from the University of Manchester. After being diagnosed with severe endometriosis in 2014, she cofounded the Barbados Association of Endometriosis and P.C.O.S. (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome). She currently sits on its Board as the President. Julia is a researcher and associate with Para Caribe Wellness Consulting and the SHRH Programme Development Assistant for the regional Herstoire’s Sister2Sister Safe Space Project.
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“If we do not share our stories and shine a light on inequities, things will not change.” Ellen Pao (Former CEO-Reddit)
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This dismissal has led to delays in diagnosis
As we work towards the 2030 UN Sustainable
and severely impacted not only the physical
Development Goals of Good Health and
health of those afflicted, but the overall quality
Wellbeing (Goal 3), Gender Equality (Goal 5) and
of life of the individual and their productivity.
Decent Work and Economic Growth (Goal 8),
Thus, any positive socioeconomic contribution
the impact of Endometriosis, other debilitating
to the community is either hindered or reduced
gynaecological
due to their condition and the pain associated.
illnesses” must be taken more seriously in our
Women’s health issues, in general, require
society. The negative impact of this condition
more attention, as healthier women and their
on the productivity of the females affected
children are recognised to contribute to a more
and their families cannot be underscored
productive
competitive
enough. Society (employees, employers and
society. As the condition has no known cure
family members) requires more information
and treatment modalities vary from person to
that would allow for greater understanding
person, a sense of frustration is felt throughout
and, hopefully, more empathy towards those
the
persons afflicted and better outcomes.
and
economically
community.
However,
increased
conditions
and
“invisible
understanding and a more holistic approach to addressing symptoms have been recognised
It is a known fact that an overall productive
as beneficial to the health-related outcomes of
workforce will allow for more economic growth.
those who have this type of support.
Increased economic access for women is extremely beneficial to businesses. Women
The individuals who have been diagnosed
and their contributions to the workforce have
with the condition do not want to shirk their
been recognised to have a beneficial impact,
contribution to their society, most times these
especially on the leadership, management and
women want to be productive and contribute
organisational capacities of businesses and
meaningfully but face some barriers which
industries.
prevent them from doing so. These barriers not only affect their social and physical health
If more women are provided with more
but their financial health, whether it be to utilse
resources which allow for their contribution
their resources to pay for regular health-related
to the workforce, the economic and social
issues or their impaired health prevents them
development of the country will occur at a
from obtaining an income.
faster rate. We, therefore, require a greater focus on better management of the symptoms
Therefore, it has been critical to inform societies
and outcomes to increase the quality of life of
of the existence of the condition and its impact
these individuals and the subsequent growth of
on the lives of women. A change is needed, at
our competitive and productive local workforce.
the individual and the societal level.
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Health & nutrition
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Meet Claire Haynes, nutritional coach and fitness expert at Surfside Wellness Centre here in Barbados. We recently caught up with her to get her take on nutrition and wellness. 1) Tell us more about your experience as a nutritional coach? I studied at the University of Westminster, London graduating in 2012. Upon returning home to Barbados, I gave myself a lot of space to explore many different avenues to develop my career. In October 2012, I delivered my first motivational TED Talk about nutrition to an audience of 200 school prefects entitled ‘How the Catelli Girl Got Out The Box.’ The presentation was a resounding success receiving over 1600 likes on YouTube and the opportunity planted the seed of enthusiasm for public health advocacy. With this newfound passion for public speaking in mind, I aligned myself at varying points of time with a number of NGOs and institutions including Slow Food Barbados, Barbados National Union of Farmers, Hastings Farmer’s Market and the Youth Arm of the Diabetes Association of Barbados. Working with such groups provided the opportunity to deliver engaging workshops and presentations to various groups including primary, secondary and tertiary students and the corporate sector. I’ve also built up my clientele through working at health and wellness businesses across the island including the Maas Clinic, Diabetes Services Solutions Inc and I’m currently now at Surfside Wellness Centre. The type of clients seeking my services also varies greatly. From those facing the slow, insidious effect of chronic diseases particularly obesity, diabetes, and hypertension to hormonal disorders, PCOS and fibroids, to athletes aiming for optimal performance.
2) Many of us do not think of health being linked to our nutrition, can you explain this link for us? The link really should be an obvious one. Our mouth is one of the main portals through which we have contact with our outer world to the point where we are strategically designed to have approximately 70% of our immune system in the gut. This means the body intuitively processes everything that goes in and is equally as effective at expelling what is harmful or what we don’t need. Additionally, our bodies are constantly building via a process called
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anabolism and breaking down via a process of catabolism. Therefore, the importance of food is three-fold;
•
food provides energy from macronutrients like
4) Do you think it is easy for Barbadians to adopt healthier eating habits?
carbohydrates, proteins and fats so these reactions
•
•
can happen like how fuel helps a car to drive,
Doable? Yes. Easy? No! Continuing from my previous
food provides over 30 micronutrients called vitamins
point, Barbadians are very traditional so in order to make
and minerals which take part in the myriad of chemical
the necessary changes, we need to step outside of our
reactions in the body similar to keys in a lock,
comfort zone. Sometimes the changes are not huge but
macro
structural
small steps implemented consistently to have an effect.
components of the body similar to the bricks of a
Even if this is achieved, however, food on a whole is very
house.
expensive, healthy or not, taking into account salaries of
and
micronutrients
become
the average Barbadian.
3) Being a nutritional coach in Barbados, what have 5) As a nutritional coach walk us through exactly you observed in terms of our eating habits? what you provide for your clients. - With sugar being our main export product for such a long time, it comes as no surprise that we generally eat
Each individual is considered unique hence programs
way over the recommended 6-9 tsp of added sugar a day.
recommended at Surfside are personalised food and
Across the globe, highly processed packaged foods are
lifestyle programs rather than a ‘one size fits all’ approach.
often the culprit, so in addition to these, the way we cook
When I meet with a potential client for the first time,
sugar is added to many of our main dishes and drinks
before we agree to a start we have an explorative session
when they can be made with less or none at all. The same
identifying their main goals and what they would ultimately
applies to salt.
like to achieve on a nutrition program. Depending on what those goals are we agree to the number of sessions they
- Buffets are a prime example of where portion control
ideally need to undertake, the critical topics of focus and
goes out the door and people can be seen piling plates
associated costs. Sessions cover:
mountain high with food. - Barbadians are often averse to tasting and trying new ingredients or combining food in unfamiliar ways. We have a fairly set menu of dishes we cook consistently so to ask persons to change what they know culturally is a hard sell. - Population studies show that we do not come close to eating 3-5 servings of fruits and vegetables. We usually stick to four main salads toss, coleslaw, macaroni and
• • • • • • • •
Body age assessments Food diary analysis - macro and micronutrient intake Understanding portion sizes Meal planning techniques Emotional/stress eating Supplementation (where necessary) Reading nutrition labels Practical and exciting recipes
potato without considering that vegetables be added to so many more dishes.
In more cases then not, I recommend clients schedule an RMR test which as-sesses resting metabolic rate and total
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daily energy expenditure so that we have accurate numerical data in designing meal plans. Clients receive customised handouts throughout the duration of the program along with email and telephone support. I will often request for them to complete feedback forms as well as food diaries documenting what they are eating. When a client reaches their original goals, we meet again at the end to reflect on the journey and to create new health goals.
6) How important is exercise when practising a balanced diet? The saying that success in the gym is 80% nutrition and 20% exercise definitely holds true. When the two go hand in hand you are likely to get better long-term results. In addition to improving one’s capacity to burn calories at rest, it im-proves circulation so that nutrients are utilised properly. It is also a great mood enhancer which prevents stress eating. Attending fitness sessions regularly means a person improves overall discipline which transcends to meal planning and sticking to goals. Self-esteem usually increases with exercise so any emotional attachments to food become easier to navigate. Here at Surfside, we often include nutritional support as part of our specialised Fitness programs. For example, we offer a 6-week fat loss program which in-cludes 3 personal training sessions per week and a detailed meal plan full of delicious recipes geared towards fat loss. We also organise three Corporate Challenges per year which include nutrition support for participants. Furthermore, our team consists of 4 nutrition coaches, 3 of which are also personal trainers and all our trainers consistently impart to our clients and members, the need for the two, diet and exercise, to be tied in healthy matrimony!
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eye health & you
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The eighth annual Ophthalmology Subspecialty Conference
World Glaucoma week shortly followed the
welcomed
international
Barbadians with 21% of our population being
physicians, health professionals and medical
affected. With these statistics, chances are we
students alike to the Accra Beach Hotel and Spa
all know someone who has glaucoma or who
from February 22nd – 24th. The Director and brain
will develop it in the future. Everyone is at risk of
child of the conference was Dr Kim Jebodhsingh, an
developing the slowly progressive disease, but
Oculoplastic Specialist here in Barbados. Each year
persons who are most at risk are those over 40
the conference focuses on the latest developments
years of age, of African descent or with a family
within the subspecialty of ophthalmology. This year
history of glaucoma. While there is no known
a light was shone on areas of vitreoretinal surgery,
way to prevent Glaucoma from developing, early
glaucoma, cataracts and research.
detection is critical in curtailing the progression of
both
regional
and
conference beginning from March 11th - 17th. Primary Open Angle Glaucoma (POAG) is the leading cause of irreversible blindness among
glaucoma; left untreated the disease will inevitably One of the more common eye diseases affecting
lead to blindness which unlike with cataracts,
many Barbadians today is glaucoma. Glaucoma
cannot be reversed. All damages sustained to
is defined as a group of eye diseases that result
the eye as a result of glaucoma are permanent.
in damage to the optic nerve and vision loss.
Ophthalmologists are able to detect glaucoma
Speaking at the opening of the conference, Sir Errol
in its early stages with a simple eye test. During
Walrond called for there to be continuous research
Glaucoma week, several participating eye clinics
in the area, stating that “There is an unfortunate
across the island facilitated free eye testing for the
view among administrators, policymakers and
public as well as awareness building lectures all
indeed most health professionals that research is
aimed at ensuring that Barbadians practice more
an expensive luxury that should be lauded but left
vigilance as it relates to their eye health. According
to the rich institutions up North…” He also made
to the Glaucoma Research Foundation, a check for
mention of a past study, “… For example, previous
glaucoma should be done:
research done by Dr Leske with local counterparts showed the high prevalence of glaucoma in this country, but I have not heard of the follow through in terms of outcomes of treatment. Apart from the effectiveness or not of the treatments given,
• • • •
Every two to four years before age 40 Every one to three years from age 40 to age 54 Every one to two years from age 55 to 64 Every six to twelve months after age 65
how compliant are asymptomatic patients with their medication and if they are not, how can one
However, persons who are at higher risk of
improve on it?” Specially invited speakers all took
developing it should be tested every year or every
turns presenting to their peers, giving each a
two years after age 35.
chance to learn firsthand about new techniques,
Both of these initiatives should be applauded
treatment approaches and best practices within
for their efforts to educate us as well as
the ophthalmology realm that would better
continuously develop both practising and training
equip them to efficiently deal with their patients.
ophthalmologists in Barbados thereby elevating the sector.
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Black People Affected by Mental Illness in England Sandwell African Caribbean Mental Health Foundation (SACMHF) is a charity situated in Sandwell, which is adjacent to Birmingham,
England’s second-largest city in the United Kingdom. SACMHF delivers a range of culturally responsive services predominantly for people of African descent, who are recovering from or enduring severe mental health issues within their families, careers and the wider community. SACMHF was founded in 1994 to provide culturally responsive mental health services in and around Sandwell. That was at a time when there was a growing body of evidence which informed of the lack of culturally responsive mental health services for Black people. There were disproportionate numbers of Black people (relative to their numbers within the wider population) who were accessing mainstream psychiatry and poor experience and outcomes for Black people using mainstream mental health services when compared to the wider community. The Government report, (Inside Outside March 2003); Improving Mental Health Services for Black & Minority Ethnic Communities in England, noted that, ‘In September 1999 the Mental Health National Service Framework was launched and it recognised that services were not adequately meeting the needs of Black and minority ethnic communities and that ethnic communities lacked confidence in mental health services’.
Patricia johnson Chief Officer, Sandwell African Caribbean Mental Health Foundation
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SACMHF’s position as a charity is set
Inequality remains within the English
within the context of known disparities
psychiatric system today. However, there
and inequalities between Black and other
is a persistence and determination within
ethnic groups and the majority white
SACMHF and other similar Black-led
population. An example of pervasive
organisations to work hard to convince
inequality is that Black Caribbean men
statutory
are 6 times more likely to experience
Commissioners
higher rates of detentions under the
procure health-related services to meet
Mental Health Act 1983 than any other
the health needs of local communities,
group (Five Year Forward View; Mental
to accept that Black people from the
Health Task Force February 2016).
diaspora need to be culturally understood
organisations whose
who roles
employ are
to
to support their recovery. People who use SACMHF services are encouraged to work alongside staff and
Furthermore, in so doing Commissioners
volunteers to adhere to a co-production
must show some support by adequately
approach where they are involved in the
funding this type of charitable work that
planning, development and review of new
statutory organisations have failed to
and existing services. SACMHF also has
do.
a role to play in community development,
can recover with the right culturally
engagement and involvement.
responsive support.
This
There are successes and people We endeavour to
enables the development of additional
maintain our operations and hope to be
capability within the Black and wider
able to report on certain of our successful
communities to build capacity, raise
outcomes to the readers of The Exporter
awareness of mental health illnesses and
in the future. Walk good!
associated issues.
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s s e n & Fit s s e n i s u b ons Life hacks andnliaesls for the millen. entrepreneur
Israel mallett
contributor profile
Chief Creative IDS Creative Inc
Israel Mallett is a creative consultant, entrepreneur and part-time tutor with an interest in technology integration, innovations for the future and keeping active through long distance running.
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I never thought that I’d be running my first 5K at 31. To be fair, I never thought that I’d be running a 5K at all. But there I was, on the starting line of the RBC Race for the Kids 2018, about to challenge UWI hill with a thousand other people clad in a sea of blue. I always had an on-again-off-again relationship with fitness and running especially. I was never a fast runner and struggled with light asthma as a child, so I always approached fitness regimes with a dose of caution and an inhaler in-hand. As I grew older and life got busier, sitting behind at a desk and computer became more of my reality. Being a creative consultant and graphic designer means that most of my day, outside of water or coffee breaks and the occasional walkabout to stretch my legs on a bathroom break, my routine is pretty sedentary. All the while my fitness regime was sporadic and yielding little results. It finally hit me when I turned 30 and couldn’t run half-a-mile without getting winded. Something had to be done. Often, getting to your goals mean getting down to things you’d rather not do. The things that are uncomfortable, those that leave you winded; the things that take you out of your mental and physical comfort zone. Each of us has them, and they are as different as we all are. But what I’ve learned on my journey from half-a-mile to 5K are lessons that can benefit any young person in life and business.
Make a move. Nothing changes until you do. We know the changes we want to make, but the hardest part is getting started. My journey to 5K began as a conversation with a friend from Jamaica who was suffering from the same fitness inertia that I was. We started a Facebook group with friends from Trinidad and the US to keep each other updated and motivated by each other’s progress. It worked
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to a point. But nothing worked like having people on the
snooze as many times as I can get away with. Some days
ground to actually go running with. And making the effort
I do. At first, I had the goal of running five days a week and
to start is critical. Nike doesn’t have the slogan ‘Just Do
was falling woefully short. Sometimes just once or twice.
It’ for nothing. And I’ve heard the saying, “Don’t put off till
But when I changed to three days a week, I found that to
tomorrow, what you can do today,” many times growing
be a lot easier to handle. When I hit two days, I was two-
up. Tackle life as a series of bite-sized challenges rather
thirds of the way there and motivated to get going the
than trying to take it all on at once. Do one small thing
next day. Even though we want quantity, sometimes less
that will drive you toward your goal in increments rather
is more, in that we can be more consistent with a more
than trying for grand gestures. Once you do that, then do
manageable routine.
another.
Have a healthy diet (that you actually enjoy)
Get a routine (and stick to it) Garbage in, garbage out. This is a lesson I am still learning, Some of the biggest laments about millennials to date
and this is where your regime is broken or built. Many
(those born between 1981 and 2000), is that we have
people push hard at the gym and run for lengths and
no passion, no drive and want everything now, instead
lengths and don’t see the results they want because the
When we walk through the valley of can’t we will fear not trying. of working towards it like older generations have had
body needs the right fuel. Add more fruits and vegetables
to. In part, this assessment can be true, not necessarily
to your plate and use those as snacks rather than the
because millennials are bad people, but because we
high sugar, high salt, dye-filled snacks we can pull from
have been born into a world with less struggle and more
the supermarket shelves.
amenities than ever before and the struggle can be with self to get going rather than will external forces.
Find healthy options that you like. This makes the diet feel more like a choice rather than a chore that is inflicted.
As with fitness and running, you have to go for it even
When you enjoy what you are eating, you will more likely
when you don’t want to. When my alarm goes off at 4:45
stick to it and see the results that you want.
am, it is dark, cold and I just want to roll over and hit
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Similarly in life and business; associate with and
brain will be sharper to deal with the mental acrobatics of
learn from the type of people who have achieved the
the business day.
success you want. Your diet of relationships will make or break your worldview and perspective. If you have the
Turn ‘I can’t’ into ‘I will.’
opportunity to travel, take it. This will broaden your palette of experiences through different cultures and countries,
While running the RBC 5K, even though I’d done better in a
and you will have a broader menu of experiences to make
few practice races, the route was different, the conditions,
you a more enriched person along your journey.
including time of day, had changed and mind over matter had failed me because all sorts of doubts were swirling
Get enough sleep
around in my head. When I finished the race I realised, I could have done better. I could have pushed through
Everyone is familiar with the term, ‘burn the midnight oil.’
those moments where I felt like I couldn’t run anymore, by
It has almost become the mantra of entrepreneurship and
just looking ahead rather than looking down at my feet.
millennials on the hustle. But the flip side of that is that burning the midnight oil can mean burn out the next day.
“When we walk through the valley of can’t we will fear
Many tout the practice of sleeping four hours a night as
not trying.” In other words, be motivated by the thoughts
a key to success and that our bodies don’t need anything
of failure. See beyond them and turn them into positive
more than that. But do that long enough, and your brain
‘what ifs.’ When you think you can’t, try. Ask yourself,
won’t function.
‘What if I can?’, and give it your all.
“Muscles are torn in the gym, fed in the kitchen and built,
Three years ago half-a-mile was tough. Now a 5K is
in bed.”
possible. In a year’s time? Who knows?
Just as your body needs adequate rest to perform much
Getting started is critical, staying consistent and
of its regenerative functions, your brain needs adequate
persevering build habits, and having the right diet gets
sleep to sort through all of the confusion of the day,
results. In fitness, as with business, these steps among
thoughts and ideas during REM sleep. Awkward dreams
others can be helpful to achieving your desired level of
aren’t always just indigestion; they’re your brain trying
success.
to make sense of the subconscious processes that underpinned all of your conscious activity. And that’s my non-medical opinion from having a good night’s sleep. Being well rested will benefit you in the long run. (Pun intended.) You will have more energy, your body will respond better to your choice of fitness regimes, and your
Getting started is critical.
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WE DO: BRANDING CREATIVE STRATEGY WEB DESIGN
let’s talk. 1 (246)
547 8419 idscreativeinc hello@idscreativeinc.com www.idscreativeinc.com
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untold stories
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Advancing alternative medicine in barbados DR. Angela moore
contributor profile
Certified Holistic Therapist
The call and passion for health are ringing from the voice of Dr. Angela Moore. Dr. Moore is a certified holistic therapist, certified in colon hydrotherapy, nutritional microscopy (feature enzyme potential - studying the effect nutrition has on the cells in the human body). She is a Manual lymphatic drainage therapist, massage therapist, and nutritional coach.
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In the wider world, “alternative medicine” is a term often used to describe
When one of these independent parts is not working
medical treatments that are used instead of what one
within the wider society. There are many sources, which
might consider traditional (mainstream) therapies.
may cause imbalances, but perhaps the most prevalent
It is often spoken of as “integrative,” “holistic” or
ones are the inorganic chemicals used in the products
“complementary” medicine.
which we use. These chemicals are present in the things
properly, the other parts will be affected. If a person has a negative imbalance in their life, it can negatively impact their overall health. This is also true for the individual
which clean the surfaces around us, at home and work, Locally, “alternative” might be a bit of a misnomer
on our face and skin, and in the foods we eat.
because there is practically no Bajan who hasn’t heard of bush tea, Cerasee bush or used a home remedy. Our
Over the last five years, Angela Moore has been working
history is steeped in ancestral remedies. However, the
to formulate organic products ranging from skin care,
challenge for the 21st century is, how can we include this
home care, intimate care, pet care, baby care, pesticides,
ancient wisdom in today’s ways of thinking and doing?
and even cleaning products for air conditioning units. These products have been manufactured with the
Perhaps let us start by understanding what is holistic
concept of pH in mind and matching it to our human
healing, and what is its philosophy. It is a form of healing
physiology. But why is this important? For example,
which considers the whole person: emotions, spirit, mind
the skin has a pH of 5.5 this pH forms an acid mantle,
and body. The objective of holistic medicine practice is
to protect the skin from viruses and germs. This acid
to achieve optimal health by gaining proper balance in
mantle can be compromised by using alkaline products
life: the holistic medicine philosophy.
on the skin. The Angela Moore skin line has been formulated to keep the acid mantle of the skin intact, and
The human ‘whole’ is made of individual components, as are our communities composed of many individuals.
If you would like to find out more, Dr. Moore offers holistic consultations at 82 Khus Khus circle Union St. Philip and she can be contacted at 246-257-6650.
it is applicable across the body.
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MEMBERS’ CORNER
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Bringing Complementary Health to the Barbadian Public “Complementary health is a holistic approach to well-being,” says Barbados Reiki Association President, Ms Eugene Holder,
speaking of the Association’s annual Holistic Health Fair (HHF).”We all have choices about our health, and the Barbados Reiki Association aims to showcase some of those choices, so people are better informed about the complementary options available right here on the island.”
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Now a complete showcase of a wide range of complementary therapies, the HHF started in 1998 as the Reiki Open Day. Then, it was mostly a way to help the Barbadian public to learn more about this light touch, hands-on therapy for healing and stress relief. But it soon became clear that the public wanted to learn more about a wider variety of therapies, and the Barbados Reiki Association was happy to oblige. Five years ago, the event was rebranded as the Holistic Health Fair to reflect the move to include not just therapies, but to broaden the range of products, food and information on offer. This year’s HHF was held at Harrison College on Sunday, April 8th. The theme was: “A Fair with a Different Flair”, which reflected the variety that has become the event’s hallmark. In addition to Reiki, other energy healing modalities, and several types of massages, the lineup included a mobile spa, organic nail therapy, natural and organic skincare products, books about healing, and natural, organic and vegan food. There was also a programme of talks about healing, and a storytelling tent offering a poetry and art workshop.
The Barbados Reiki Association’s held it’s Holistic Health Fair and this year on Sunday, April 8th at Harrison College.
“One issue that’s very important to us is keeping the HHF accessible to all,” comments Ms Holder. “That’s why, for some years now, we have kept admission to a very affordable $5, with each mini-therapy costing no more than $20. That allows people to sample multiple complementary healing modalities to see what works best for them.” Over the years, Barbadian businesses have been generous in their sponsorship of this fixture on the annual health calendar. Ms. Holder expressed her gratitude to Tiami Catamarans Barbados, The Travel House, and Sign Station Barbados, for being sponsors again this year. The HHF offered a Tiami lunch cruise for two as a grand door prize, to be drawn from tickets presented at the door. This year’s fair was opened by the Minister of Health; who has recognised the association as a valued partner in delivering on the World Health Organisation’s strategy of integrating complementary health with allopathic medicine. “You have to know better to do better,” concluded Ms Holder. “And the HHF is about bringing that knowledge to as wide an audience as possible.”
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MONey alone can’t buy workplace happiness
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While receiving a fair salary is high on the list of priorities for Barbadian job seekers,
MONEY alone can’t buy workplace happiness
money alone can’t buy employees’ happiness,
loyalty or commitment. This appears to be the view of many Barbadians who participated in a recent survey which was carried out to uncover the opinions of employees on a range of brand-related topics, including organisational culture, employer branding, job hunting and internal communications. When asked “What is the most important factor you look for in a potential employer when job hunting?”, nearly a third of individuals (30.4%) who participated in the survey indicated that salary was their most important factor. An additional 12.2% indicated that benefits and perks were their most important factor when job hunting. Combined, these two financial considerations account for 42.6% of responses. However, as the results of the survey show, financial considerations aren’t the only factors on employees’ minds. In fact, most employees indicated
ron johnson
that they would leave their current jobs for reasons other than financial
Co-founder, Managing Director Blueprint Creative
considerations. When asked whether they would leave their current job for the same salary if their new employer had better opportunities for career advancement, 86.8% responded “Yes”. And when asked whether they would leave their current job for the same salary if their new employer had better training opportunities, 73.6% responded in the affirmative.
30.4%
12.2%
indicated that salary was their most important factor
indicated that benefits and perks were their most important factor when job hunting
These two factors (“career advancement” and “training opportunities”) were so important that some respondents indicated that they would be willing to leave their current jobs even if they would be earning less at their new employer. 53.1% would switch jobs for a lower salary if they could access better opportunities for career advancement, while 40.2 % would be willing to accept a lower salary if they could access better training opportunities. As the results of the survey indicate, employers who focus exclusively on remuneration packages to attract and retain employees run the risk of alienating individuals who are also motivated by factors other than the size of their pay cheques. Companies that offer their employees a good
53.1% Were willing to take a lower salary for better career advancement opportunities
Wer for b
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salary, as well as opportunities to improve
and the impact the company’s culture
contributor profile
their skillsets and advance professionally,
may be having on the wellbeing of staff.
Ron Johnson is co-founder and Managing Director of Blueprint Creative, one of Barbados’ leading branding agencies. Blueprint Creative is comprised of more than 20 problem-solvers, idea generators, entrepreneurs, designers and copywriters, who have studied, trained and gained working experience in a range of countries, including Barbados, The Bahamas, Canada, England, Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago and the USA.
stand a better chance of attracting and
He said that only then could employers
retaining top talent. These companies
build an accurate snapshot of employees’
will ultimately benefit from the hard work,
needs and expectations outside of salary
enthusiasm, ideas and commitment from
considerations.
86.8%
of respondents would leave their job for the same salary for better career advancement opportunities
73.6%
of respondents would leave their job for the same salary for better training opportunities
40.2%
re willing to take a lower salary better training opportunities
employees who show up to work for more than just a pay cheque.
“Most companies,” Johnson said, “are able to easily describe the vision for its
The results of the survey have been
organisations but, unfortunately, in many
documented in a report entitled “The
cases, the vision for its employees is
Employee View of the Employer Brand”
not articulated, and employees are left
which has been published by Antilles
uncertain about their futures with the
Economics, an insights consulting firm,
company. This can have a negative impact
and Blueprint Creative, one of Barbados’
on team members’ peace of mind and
leading branding agencies. According to
their overall wellness.”
the firms behind the project, the results of the research project will be used to
Johnson said that local organisations
help employees and employers better
could
understand
companies such as Zappos and Google,
each
other’s
needs
and
expectations.
benefit
from
benchmarking
where maintaining a highly engaged culture is a top priority.
Commenting on the results of the survey, Ron Johnson, Managing Director of
Blueprint Creative, the company which
Blueprint Creative, said that companies
Johnson
that are sincerely interested in the mental
tremendously
and physical wellness of their employees
company culture and the well-being of
need to look beyond factors such as
its team members. The company has
remuneration
quite
won two Barbados’ Best Awards for its
often, money alone isn’t enough to ensure
company culture and HR practices and is
the wellbeing of employees. In other
considered to be one of the best places to
words, money alone can’t buy workplace
work in its industry.
packages
since,
co-founded, from
has
benefitted
focusing
on
its
happiness. The results of the survey have been Johnson encouraged decision makers to
documented in an Executive Summary
have open and honest conversations with
which is available online at the websites of
their employees and discuss topics such
Blueprint Creative and Antilles Economics.
as career advancement opportunities
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in-house news
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STAFF RETREAT 2018 BCSI Secretariat
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The BCSI annual Strategic Planning Retreat
Dr. Hinds, facilitated a number of team building
was held at
helped in prompting ideas and new strategies for
the Radisson Hotel on March 10th, 2018. The
the organization. While, Mrs. Cummins, presented
initiative was very impactful and enlightening with
on Branding and strategic marketing, setting a
utmost success. Present were the staff of BCSI
standard and a new culture for the BCSI.
exercises and brain storming activities which
and the new Board: Mr. Graham Clarke (Executive Director), Mr. Wendell Cumberbatch (President),
The BCSI is committed to supporting the
Ms. Allison Beckles, Ms. Udene Rouse, Mr. Anton
advancement of service industries through various
Nixon, Mr. Rueben Blenman, Mr. Andrew Mason
means (inter alia): capacity building, lobbying and
and Mr. Paul Clarke. Also, present were specially
advocacy. Therefore, the implementation of new
invited guests Dr. Olivet Hinds the director of Coliaj
internal processes and strategies discussed at the
Consulting Inc. and Mrs. Gina Cummins, who is a
retreat is paramount for the Success of the BSCI
Brand and Marketing guru facilitated a day full of
and their stories.
exciting activities
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T H E E X P O R T E R t h e E x p o r t e r
BUILDING BUSINESSES. SUPPORTING SERVICES. EXPORTING EXCELLENCE.
Barbados Coalition of Service Industries (BCSI) Building #3 Unit 2B Harbour Industrial Estate Telephone: 1 (246) 429-5357 Fax: 1 (246) 429-5352 E-mail: info@bcsi.org.bb Website: http://www.bcsi.org.bb