In a time when the demand for mental wellness and social healing has never been greater, the Wellness Waves Foundation made its official debut with a vibrant and soul-stirring launch event on May 29th at the beautifully set Julees location.
The evening united community leaders, artists, educators, and mental health advocates in a shared commitment to create ripples of meaningful change across Antigua and Barbuda and beyond.
Hosted by the effervescent Farida Isaac-Carr, Vice President and Board Member, the event opened with warmth, hope, and vision.
A heartfelt prayer by board member Deon Grannum set a reverent tone, grounding the gathering in purpose.
At the heart of the evening was founder Koren Norton, an experienced counselor and lifelong mental wellness advocate, who unveiled the Foundation’s vision.
She shared the organization’s focus on four core pillars: mental wellness, education, women’s empowerment, and youth development.
“Our goal is to create waves of change by meeting real needs, nurturing potential, and giving people tools to thrive—not just survive,” she emphasized.
The room leaned in as Chaneil Imhoff, a respected national mental health advocate and feature speaker, passionately addressed the urgent need for accessible and inclusive mental health services.
She affirmed WISH’s commitment to partnering with the Foundation to help increase awareness and develop community-based mental wellness programs.
Education advocate Wendy Silencieux, founding member of the REACH Mentorship Program at Ottos Comprehensive School, spoke powerfully about the need for stronger mentorship systems in education, especially for vulnerable youth.
Then came the keynote, Ms. Tanya Ambrose, founder of Scrub Life Cares and a public health and women’s wellness specialist, who issued a resounding call to action: “When we help one, we change many. A single act of service ripples into families, communities, and generations,” she said.
The evening was lifted with powerful artistic expressions that reflected the Foundation’s mission. Kayli Charles, representing the Creative Arts Dance School, delivered a soulful dance performance that captivated the crowd.
k Jahfari Hazlewood, a talented young pannist, brought the house down with his energetic steelpan solo, including the beloved anthem “Nabady Ga Run Me” by King Short Shirt.
In one of the most touching moments of the night, Aulicia Greenaway, a young community member, bravely shared her personal experience—offering a raw and moving reminder of why the Foundation’s work is not just important, but essential.
A stirring original poem by Rickelle Alfred echoed through the room as a call to women everywhere to rise and reclaim their power.
The evening concluded with official remarks by Koren Norton, who called on the public to not just support, but actively join the movement. She “invited the public to get involved, give back, and ride the wave of wellness.”
The Foundation’s Board Members include Koren Norton, Sascha Mercer, Farida Isaac-Carr, Sedale Perry, and Chris Williams.
The Wellness Waves Foundation is now inviting volunteers, donors, and community members to join its mission. Whether your passion lies in mental wellness, education, youth mentorship, or women’s empowerment, there is a place for you here.
Call Koren at (268) 784-5015Visit www.makewellnesswaves.com
Let’s ride the wave of wellness—together.