Whitfield Town project promoting wellness and lasting peace

In a show of community spirit and motivation, the Whitfield Town Fitness Club, in collaboration with the St Andrew South Police Division, officially launched its 'Wrestle Your Weight' project last Friday.

This initiative, which had been on hold due to violence in the area, marks a significant step toward fostering community engagement and promoting health. The launch was more than just a workout session - it was a vibrant celebration of culture and camaraderie. Participants were seen working out enthusiastically, with breaks filled with spontaneous dance sessions, done to the sound of old dancehall hits. The atmosphere was electric, as groups formed, bonded, and shared laughs, creating a sense of unity that extended beyond the gym and gang feud.

Shantay McKinley, a key organiser and member of the Whitfield Town community, shared her motivation for starting the programme.

"Initially, this project began in 2020 after one of our 19-year-old friends was diagnosed with diabetes," McKinley explained. "We wanted to improve our friend's health and our own. However, the violence in the area forced us to pause. Today, we're thrilled to relaunch the mission, and we welcome neighbouring communities to join us."

The project, which focuses on fitness and health education, is supported by the police and features a partnership with Dynamic Fitness. Superintendent Damion Manderson, commanding officer of the St Andrew South Division, emphasised the importance of community involvement.

"This programme is part of our inclusive leadership approach," Manderson said. "We engage with residents and work together to address their needs. It's about creating lasting peace and building safer communities." The initiative also highlights the role of local businesses in supporting community health. Tanisha Gregory, chef at Classy Taste Catering, said that nutrition is crucial for overall well-being.

"I've learned from Cecile [Morris Murray], the gym instructor, that balancing your diet--eating more protein than starch and monitoring your intake--is key. It's great to see the community embracing this approach," she said.

Morris Murray, CEO of Functional Fitness Jamaica, who was a participant, said she was ecstatic to see the number of people who turned up and admired their excitement about working out.

"Many people think working out is boring or unaffordable, but we're here to show them it's accessible and enjoyable," she said. Manderson added that the initiative is about more than just fitness.

"It's about building a sense of community and safety. We're seeing a reduction in crime and an increase in community engagement, and we hope to expand this model to other areas," he said. As McKinley puts it, "Your health is your wealth. We're here to support each other, and we invite others to join us. Together, we can make a difference."