The Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Science Institute (BAMSI) was thrilled to be one of the participants in the Central Bank of The Bahamas’ Annual Wellness Fair, held earlier this month, which reeled in excited staff and curious members of the public who were happy to share in the bounty of fresh produce brought by the Institute.

Along with a host of information - pamphlets and flyers - available on the school and explaining all of its academic programmes, BAMSI brought cases of bananas, papayas, okra, butternut squash, sweet potato, honeydew melon, and pumpkins. These items were given out for free to those who stopped by the booth and persons were eager to taste and experience the quality of locally grown produce. By the end of the event, all of the boxes previously containing produce were empty.

      The booth also received a number of requests for information on the school. Hilary Huyler, mother to a 19-year-old son, inquired about a suitable programme to keep her son productive. Other guests stopped by to ask about the various programmes also. Several were amazed to discover that students could obtain an associate degree in both Marine Science and Environmental Science at BAMSI. Numerous persons left their contact information so that they would receive more information on a later date.

Human Resource Officer for the Central Bank Margo Major, gave insight on this yearly event. “This wellness fair has been going on for over 25 years. It runs from 10am until 1pm and attracts diverse vendors,” she said. When asked how the Bank is able to reach out to potential vendors, Ms. Major explained, “members of our staff would make recommendations for individuals they feel would be interested in setting up a booth, and showcasing their products and services. We would even attend fairs ourselves and businesses would be out there, from this information we would form a database”.

The fair also showcased vendors from across New Providence who all had the opportunity to highlight their various products, from edible goodies to flavourful sauces, spices and herbs to soothing bath and body solutions. Dozens of persons showed up to support their Bahamian entrepreneurs and purchase items that would contribute to developing a healthy lifestyle.

Some of the companies on display were, Born Again Naturals, Island Queens, Freedom Guide Pathway, and V&V’s Condiments. Carol, founder of Freedom Guide Pathway spoke a little on her business. “I used to be an educator and guidance counsellor, now I run Freedom Guide Pathway which focuses on mental health training. We know how important mental health is. I help others discover their purpose, and hopefully to live their best lives”. Vianna Gibson, owner of V&V’s Condiments also shared what her business was all about. “V&V’s Condiments specializes in a variety of food items including, sea salt, honey, coconut barbeque sauce, and mango barbeque sauce. I make everything myself,” she explained. Ms. Gibson has been producing and selling her condiments for over five years, and this was her third time at the fair.

Altogether, the fair was a success for the Institute. The public was made aware of the areas of study they are able to take part in, while others received free samples of food grown at the Institute’s farm in North Andros.