RCA hosts Mental Health Workshop at IBWSS
The Rotary Club of Antigua (RCA) hosted a Mental Health Workshop for students of Irene B. Williams Secondary School on Thursday 21st May 2026 as part of the Club’s ongoing commitment to youth empowerment, emotional wellness and holistic development. The workshop, facilitated by the RCA in partnership with Mental Health Advocate, Chaneil Imhoff, provided students with a safe and […]
Black News 
The Rotary Club of Antigua (RCA) hosted a Mental Health Workshop for students of Irene B. Williams Secondary School on Thursday 21st May 2026 as part of the Club’s ongoing commitment to youth empowerment, emotional wellness and holistic development.
The workshop, facilitated by the RCA in partnership with Mental Health Advocate, Chaneil Imhoff, provided students with a safe and supportive environment to discuss mental health challenges, coping mechanisms, self-awareness and the importance of seeking help when needed. Through open dialogue and practical guidance, the initiative aimed to equip students with tools to better manage stress, anxiety, peer pressure and other issues impacting today’s youth.
President of the Rotary Club of Antigua, Elisa Graham emphasized the importance of the exercise and Rotary’s role in supporting the nation’s young people.
“Rotary believes that healthy communities begin with healthy minds. Our young people face numerous pressures in today’s society, and it is important that we create opportunities for meaningful conversations around mental health. This workshop is not only about awareness, but also about empowering students to understand that seeking support is a sign of strength and not weakness,” President Graham stated.
Gretchen Christopher, the Guidance Counsellor at IBWSS welcomed the initiative and highlighted the value of collaborative support systems within schools.
“Mental health remains a critical issue affecting students academically, socially and emotionally. Initiatives such as this workshop provide students with reassurance that they are not alone and that there are persons and organizations willing to support them through difficult periods. We are grateful to the Rotary Club of Antigua and Ms Imhoff for recognizing the importance of student wellness,” Christopher said.
Principal of IBWSS, Ursula Willock also praised the initiative and encouraged students to actively participate in the session.
“We want our students to know that their voices matter and that their wellbeing is a priority. Workshops like this help to break the stigma surrounding mental health and foster a culture of openness, understanding and compassion within the school community,” Principal Willock stated.
The feature presentation and interactive discussions led by presenter Chaniel Imhoff, encouraged students to prioritize their emotional wellbeing and openly address mental health concerns.
“Students must understand that it is okay to ask for help. Mental health challenges do not define who you are, and with the right support systems, coping strategies and encouragement, every student can overcome obstacles and thrive,” Imhoff noted.
The RCA remains dedicated to initiatives that positively impact the lives of young people and strengthen communities through education, service and advocacy.
