The Ministry of Health proudly hosted an enlightening panel discussion, “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures: The First 1000 Days of Life in Bermuda,” in honor of World Health Day on Monday, April 7, 2025. This thought-provoking event, held at Bermuda College’s Athene Lecture Hall, united experts, community members, and stakeholders to share insights and strategies to advance maternal and child health in Bermuda.
Moderated by Ms. Janice Mullings-George, RN, Founder of Reset to Reboot, the panel featured a distinguished lineup of experts:
- Ms. Fiona Dill, Doula and Executive Director at 'It Takes a Village'
- Dr. Terrylynn Tyrell, Coordinator of the Child Development Programme
- Ms. Allison Outerbridge, Public Health Nutritionist
- Dr. Ricky Brathwaite, CEO of Bermuda Health Council
- Ms. Lynn Jackson, Chief Nursing Officer, Department of Health
- Dr. Alison Daniels, Child Care Regulations Programme Manager
Minister of Health Kim Wilson expressed her gratitude, stating, “I am grateful to the panelists for their insightful contributions and participation, as well as to everyone who attended this important discussion. I also want to extend my thanks to the Health Promotion and Wellness Office, Department of Health team for organizing such a meaningful event that highlights the importance of creating healthy beginnings and hopeful futures.”
The Ministry’s efforts through the First 1,000 Days Integrated Care Pathway Initiative were central to the panel discussion, emphasizing critical milestones such as prenatal screenings, maternal mental health support, and breastfeeding rates. Panelists shed light on the importance of early intervention, quality child care at regulated care facilities and home care providers, maternal health and wellbeing, nutrition, integrated care pathways, community support, and resources available to ensure a healthy start for Bermuda’s future generations.
Attendees praised the event’s collaborative spirit and wealth of actionable knowledge. As World Health Day 2025 ended, the Ministry of Health celebrated its commitment to creating “Healthy Beginnings and Hopeful Futures” for all.