The Greater Portmore Seventh-day Adventist Church brought health, wellness and education to the forefront with its Health and Education Expo, held on Sunday, August 3, 2025, on the grounds of the Ascot High School. Under the inspiring theme “Transforming Lives Through Healthy Lifestyle and Education,” the event offered a day of empowerment, care and community engagement.
The opening ceremony was marked by warm greetings from Member of Parliament, St Catherine Southern, Mr. Fitz Jackson, and an uplifting charge from former pastor of the Greater Portmore Church, Pastor Kevan Barnaby, setting the tone for a day dedicated to improving lives through holistic well-being and knowledge.
The Expo featured an impressive lineup of exhibitors, including Northern Caribbean University (NCU), Inter-American Division Publishing Association (IADPA), Centre for the Investigation of Sexual Offences and Child Abuse (CISOCA), Firearm and Narcotics Investigation Division, Administrator-General Department, Jamaica Microfilm Ltd, Alkatec Medical and Learning Gateway.
Community members benefited from a range of free medical services such as blood pressure checks, blood sugar tests, Pap smears, PSA tests, ECG screenings, and eye examinations. Dental services for adults and children were also available at reduced costs, making essential healthcare more accessible. The church’s dedicated medical team of doctors and nurses attended to over 100 residents from the Greater Portmore area.
The Expo wasn’t only about health - it was also about family fun and community connection. Children enjoyed the bounce-a-bout, while adults showcased their skills in a lively hula hoop competition.
This impactful initiative was made possible through the generous support of sponsors, including Jamaica Public Service (JPS), JTA Co-operative Credit Union Ltd, Seprod, PRO S.W.A.T., Alkatec Medical, Andrews Memorial Hospital, National Public Health Lab, Lindo & Sons Funeral Home, Awnings R Us and St. Jago Farm & Hardware Supplies Ltd.
“We believe that true transformation begins with a healthy mind and body, empowered by education, and this expo is our way of providing the community with the tools and resources they need to achieve just that,” said Dr. Junior Green, Health Ministries Leader at the Greater Portmore SDA Church, underscoring the church’s commitment to community welfare. “The overwhelming support from the sponsors, exhibitors and volunteers shows what we can achieve when we come together for a common cause.”
Through initiatives like this Health and Education Expo, the Greater Portmore SDA Church continues to demonstrate its commitment to uplifting the community, fostering healthier lifestyles, and empowering residents through education.