Radhica De Silva
Senior Reporter
Determined to promote healthier lifestyles, students of St Joseph Convent, in San Fernando, took to the streets on Saturday for a lively event called “Walk-a-Fun.”
The event was officially opened by Father David Khan of Our Lady of Perpetual Help RC Church, who joined forces with San Fernando Mayor Junia Regrello to support the students’ initiative.
The students, with placards advocating for healthy living, danced their way through the streets to the infectious beats of Patrice Roberts’s hit song, “Drink Water and Mind Your Business.”
Khan emphasised the importance of taking care of both the mind and body, recognising the integral connection between the two.
Regrello commended the students for their efforts, highlighting that adopting a healthy lifestyle was a goal set by the United Nations.
Acting principal of the school, Nadine Joseph-Dennie, told Guardian Media they had planned a series of activities for the day, including Zumba, aerobics, yoga, and medical testing provided by the T&T Medical Association. She said the students created banners endorsing healthy lifestyles.
“Today we are endorsing good eating, exercise, relaxation, and yoga. We want people to eat healthy. Today it would have been tempting to have doubles, but instead, we are having wraps, coconut water, and fruits. We are in support of reducing salts, fats, and sugar,” Joseph-Dennie said.
She also emphasised the importance of minimising fried foods in one’s diet.
For the students, the “Walk-a-Fun” event served as a way to relieve stress and enjoy themselves.
Hylee Langlaise, a Form Two student said: “This walk is about letting loose and feeling the music and vibes. It is time for us to interact and have a good time as a school and society. Healthy foods should be a basic way of life. We are going through exams and stress, and we are happy for this event to calm ourselves down and feel peace.”
Lenniah Remy Alfred, the deputy head girl, said physical and mental well-being was important.
“Many people suffer because of lifestyle diseases, and we are trying to promote healthy well-being for all. Exercising regularly, drinking water, having a balanced diet, and living a healthy lifestyle is crucial. Limit your fast food and eat more fruits and vegetables,” she said.