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Community Leaders Embrace Virtues to Build Respect and Positivity

Monday, Aug 18

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ommunity leaders, parents, and advocacy groups gathered this week for a three-day workshop hosted by the National Community Foundation’s Brian Bernard Fund, exploring how 52 core virtues can be applied to strengthen respect, empathy, and positive behavior across Saint Lucian communities.

The workshop highlighted the importance of positive language and values-driven communication as tools to counter negativity and social challenges. Participants engaged in practical sessions aimed at applying virtues in schools, workplaces, and neighborhoods.

Inspector of Police Zachary Hippolyte emphasised that virtues are critical in today’s social climate, especially given the prevalence of crime, frustration, and hostility online.

I think the most important thing is the power of positive language. The virtues are definitely about changing humanity with the power of positivity,” Inspector Hippolyte said.

Especially now in our era of social media where we are subjected to so much negativity… when you look at what the virtues mean, it’s about bringing out the best in people through respect, integrity, understanding, and compassion. We can actually change this world.”

Community Liaison Officer of the Soufrière Regional Development Foundation (SRDF), Glyndia Charles, echoed similar sentiments, noting that the program equips individuals with practical tools for everyday interactions.

This workshop has actually taught me how to impart teachable moments effectively, by communicating in a way that brings about positive attitudes and positive change. By learning the 52 virtues brings out positivity in humans. These are awesome tools we all need to live by every day,” Charles explained.

The Brian Bernard Fund’s focus on virtue-based community development continues to grow, offering new approaches to address rising social challenges and encouraging Saint Lucians to embrace respect, empathy, and shared responsibility as foundations for national progress.