Non-Profit Youth Power Group Hosts Event to Raise Mental Health Awareness

An image provided by the Youth Power Group.

By R. Butcher. Updated 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, September 23, 2025, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).

The Youth Power Group SVG (YPG SVG) hosted an event called “Mega Help Roots” on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at the Girls’ High School (GHS) Volleyball Court to raise awareness of mental health.

Youths from across St. Vincent & the Grenadines (SVG) gathered at the GHS Volleyball Court in Kingstown to stand up and raise awareness about suicide, depression, and anxiety—challenges that many people, particularly young people, face daily.

Attendees took part in a variety of activities, with the chance to win vouchers from sponsors.

The event featured a volleyball tournament themed “Spike It Up For Mental Health,” where teams from Youth Power Group SVG (YPG SVG), Gremlins Volleyball Team, and the SVG Volleyball Association competed.

A highlight of the day was a compelling drama performed by YPG SVG members, which encouraged attendees to identify the “roots” of their problems and take steps toward overcoming them.

YPG youth coordinator, Mr. Elijah Branford, explained the concept:
“You may ask, ‘Why roots?’ A tree’s roots give it strength, but not every root contributes to growth. Some may hinder us.”

He went on to describe common obstacles: “Fear can paralyse us. Rejection builds walls where bridges should stand. Comparison impedes us from seeing our true worth. Addictions rob us of time, energy, and freedom.”

Branford emphasised that change is possible, encouraging attendees to cut away old roots and plant new ones—roots that nourish, strengthen, bring peace, and provide freedom. “This is the time to cut the roots of fear and plant the seeds of courage,” he added.

The central message of the event was clear: identify the roots you carry within—good or bad—and let go of those that only lead to hurt or actions you do not truly want to take.

Branford also cited statistics from the World Health Organization (WHO), noting that around one in seven adolescents aged 10 to 19 worldwide live with a mental disorder, with half of all adult cases beginning before age 14. These figures underscore the urgent need to address mental health issues.

He highlighted that Mega Help is more than just an event—it is a movement designed to raise awareness, offer hope, and provide emotional support. Held during Suicide Awareness Month, it serves as a reminder to young people that they are not alone.

The YPG extended its deepest gratitude to all sponsors: Annie’s Beauty Salon, The Beauty Shop, De.de Cutz, Jefton da Barber, Mystro Cutz, One784 Kutz, Basil’s Bar, Lady J Restaurant, and Escoot Rentals.

The Youth Power Group (YPG) is located at Frenches Gate, Kingstown, upstairs Frisko Ice Cream. For updates, follow them on Instagram: @ypg.svg or Facebook: YPG St. Vincent. For more information, call +1 (784) 498-6242 or text 531-3808.

This information was provided by the Youth Power Group.