Antiguans and Barbudans will have an opportunity to engage with internationally recognised healing practitioners at no cost when the Wadadli Healing Symposium takes place over two days in October.

The national event, scheduled for October 6 and 7, will focus on historical and community trauma, while providing practical approaches to strengthening families, supporting young people and improving community wellbeing.

Registration is already open, but organisers are warning that spaces are limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. The symposium is being organised by the Jane E. Toussaint Foundation in partnership with The University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus and Be The Healing Inc.

The programme will open on October 6 with a strong cultural component, including an original work by poet Dotsie Isaac commissioned specifically for the symposium.

Panorama champions Hells Gate Steel Orchestra will also perform before Dr Joy DeGruy delivers the keynote address. DeGruy is internationally known for her presentations and work examining healing, culture, race relations and contemporary social issues.

Day Two will place particular attention on men and young people.

Dr David C. Miller, who has extensive experience leading healing circles with men and boys, will facilitate a session on male engagement covering decision-making, impulse control, mental health awareness, managing anger and joy.

Miller will also co-facilitate a workshop with licensed mental health counsellor Persephone Modeste for young people between 15 and 24. That session will explore identity, belonging and emotional wellness.

Husband-and-wife team Elder Michael and Eldress Jackie Campbell will also participate, bringing decades of experience in culturally responsive programmes for Black youth and families.

DeGruy will lead a separate professional development session for mental health therapists, social workers, counsellors and traditional healers, focusing on contemporary healing approaches designed for people of African descent.

The Jane E. Toussaint Foundation said the symposium reflects its wider work to address the lasting effects of historical and community trauma while strengthening families and supporting young people across Antigua and Barbuda.

Registration is free and is now open through the foundation’s website, with organisers urging residents to secure their places before the event reaches capacity.