Ministry of Health Launches 'Beat Diabetes Before
The Ministry of Health and Social Development has opened entries for the “Beat Diabetes Before It Starts” video competition, calling on students in grades two through six to submit 45–60 second videos promoting healthy lifestyle choices to prevent diabetes. New guidance published alongside the launch offers practical tips for entries — from fun ways to stay active to choosing water or fresh coconut water over sugary drinks — and organisers urge teachers, parents and community leaders to support student participation.
The Ministry of Health and Social Development has launched the “Beat Diabetes Before It Starts” video competition and opened entries for students in grades two through six to create 45–60 second videos that promote healthy lifestyle choices to prevent diabetes, the Ministry announced through official channels and media reports.
Public Health Officer Renee Leonard said the competition is designed to raise awareness among young people and their families about the power of prevention. "Diabetes is a growing health concern in our Territory, but the good news is that many risk factors can be reduced through lifestyle choices," Ms.
Leonard said, adding that engaging young people helps them take charge of their health and inspire peers, families and communities to make healthier decisions every day. Students are encouraged to produce short, engaging clips that highlight practical, everyday actions that can reduce diabetes risk.
The Ministry’s announcement lists healthy eating, regular physical activity, staying hydrated and limiting sugary drinks and snacks as central themes. A separate report from Guavaberry expands on those ideas, suggesting fun ways to stay active — from walking, dancing and sports to simple everyday movement — and urging participants to show examples of eating more whole foods and reducing processed or junk food.
Guavaberry also includes quick, entry-friendly tips organisers say students may feature in their videos: aim for at least 30 minutes of movement every day; fill half your plate with fruits and vegetables; swap sodas and juices for water or fresh coconut water; get enough sleep and manage stress, which can affect blood sugar; and visit a healthcare provider for routine checkups and screenings.
Organisers have not published a strict judging rubric, but they say creativity, clarity of message and positive community impact will be considered when selecting winners. The deadline for video submissions is November 5, and winners will be announced on World Diabetes Day, November 14.
Exciting prizes sponsored by Unite BVI will be awarded to the top three entries with first, second and third place recognitions for the most creative and impactful videos. The Ministry is asking teachers, parents and community leaders to support students in participating, noting the competition is an opportunity not only to celebrate young talent but also to embed healthy habits early and spark island-wide conversations about preventing type 2 diabetes.
Officials emphasise that simple, everyday choices by individuals and families can make a difference across communities in the Virgin Islands. For submission details and enquiries about the competition, contact Public Health Officer Renee Leonard at 468-2273. Media or communications enquiries can be directed to Natasha Lettsome-Humphrey, Public Health Communications Specialist, at 468-2286 or nlettsome@gov.vg.
Together, the Ministry says, the Territory can "Beat Diabetes Before It Starts" by empowering young people and supporting healthier choices across homes, schools and neighbourhoods.
Primary source: BVI Government