Former Democratic Labour Party (DLP) leader Dr Ronnie Yearwood added festive notes to St John with a series of community-focused Christmas events that attracted hundreds of residents from across the parish.
The celebrations included a Christmas party for more than 300 children and their families and the finals of a karaoke competition held under the theme Community Vibes.
The karaoke contest, staged at venues across St John, culminated in a finale that drew over 400 attendees.
Dr Yearwood, noting his family roots in St John, said: “My grandmother was born and grew up in St John, and my family still lives there.
“Through my charity and with my family, we held the finals of our karaoke competition to bring life and events to people.”
He told Barbados TODAY that the karaoke events were held in areas such as Pool, Welch, Gall Hill, Cheshire, and Martin’s Bay.
“The community’s response was overwhelmingly positive. It was heartwarming to see so many smiles and hear so much laughter,” he said.
Noting the importance of giving back, Dr Yearwood said that he has been volunteering and doing community work since his teenage years.
“It’s just a part of who I am. I think it’s important to give back and help people so they can help themselves. At Christmas, it’s especially meaningful to bring joy to children and families,” he noted.
The former DLP leader also shared his broader vision for community engagement, advocating for initiatives that empower individuals rather than relying on handouts.
“New politics has to be about community and not simply handouts but giving people a helping hand when they are down so they can lift themselves and their families up,” he said.
“You can’t come into politics to just take from people. You come to give and uplift in as many ways possible, small and big.”
For the upcoming year, Dr Yearwood pledged to expand his outreach efforts, including new youth programmes and initiatives to support businesses in St John.
“We thank all those who helped in 2024 and look forward to their assistance in 2025 as we build out new and sustainable programmes,” he said, calling for continued collaboration.
Extending season’s greetings to the nation, he said: “I wish all Barbadians, everyone . . . joy, blessings, and a strong sense of community in the coming year.”
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