My fellow Combermerians, the month of May has become synonymous with children and is widely known, in this region, as ‘Child Month”.  Additionally, and from an international perspective this month is dedicated to raising awareness of those living with mental health and behavioural  issues, with the hope of reducing stigma.  

There is no doubt that the COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically increased our awareness of self and also of the issues surrounding mental health.  I believe we have all at one point or another either experienced or been aware of someone who may have suffered from mental health issues and certainly over the past 15 months as persons around the world have been in various stages of lockdown to safeguard lives, there has been much talk and education around mental health and behavioural issues.  

The dynamics caused by constant change as well as uncertainty and economic fluctuations, the world over, have significantly impacted all of us and created an environment of stress, like none other before    

In this issue, we follow the steps of young Mikhail Carvalho, former school captain, who is currently on an athletic scholarship pursuing studies in Financial Economics at Troy University Alabama, USA.  We also read the compelling story of Kerryann Ifill former Senator and one of the champions of the disabled community in Barbados.  As we do our part to build awareness on mental health and wellness, we are again reminded by, Jomo Philips, Couple and Family Therapist, of the coping strategies necessary to navigate these unsettling times.

As Combermerians, we have an awesome heritage and I believe that we ought to do more to continually uplift our school in all areas.  We need to highlight the legacy of those great Combermerians now deceased, past and present, to laud their achievements not for the sake of tooting our own horn but as a reminder to ourselves and those following that this amazing and unique culture has given us a  strong foundation that supports us everywhere. 

With this in mind I wish to create a forum on the website that would be a treasure trove for these stories and so I invite all interested persons who wish to contribute, to submit articles that can be posted on the website to: info@csosabarbados.com

Let us also remember to check on each other, especially our older alumni who are in their golden years. Continue to be our brothers’ and sisters’ keeper and remember a call, WhatsApp message or visit goes a long way.

Up and On!