The Tobago Regional Health Authority (TRHA), in collaboration with the Division of Health and Wellness and the Breastfeeding Association of Trinidad and Tobago (TBATT), commemorated the 25th Annual Family Walk and Breakfast -Tobago Edition on Saturday, August 8th, 2026, in celebration of World Breastfeeding Week 2026, under the theme “Strengthen What Works!”
The occasion brought together representatives of the TRHA Board, Executive Management and staff, health officials, TBATT, community stakeholders and families in support of breastfeeding.
The morning’s activities kicked off with a lively walk through the streets of Scarborough, led by the Boys’ Brigade, whose musical accompaniment has remained a cherished tradition since the inaugural walk in Tobago in 2001. Participants then returned to the Scarborough Library Facility for breakfast before the formal proceedings.
Delivering the feature address, Deputy Chief Secretary with responsibility for the Division of Health and Wellness, Dr. Faith Brebnor, encouraged stakeholders to build on successful initiatives that support mothers and families throughout their breastfeeding journey.
Reflecting on the theme, Dr. Brebnor urged stakeholders to build upon successful programmes, stating, “Look at what works and say okay, this is what we can do to make it better.” She also highlighted the importance of family support, particularly the role of fathers, while challenging public and private sector organisations to create more breastfeeding friendly spaces across Tobago.
Acting General Manager of Patient Care Services, TRHA, Mrs. Michelle Edwards-Benjamin, reaffirmed the Authority’s longstanding partnership with TBATT and emphasised the importance of strengthening existing support throughout maternal and neonatal care. “In our antenatal care and education, we want to strengthen what works. In our maternity and neonatal care, we want to strengthen what works,” she stated, noting the TRHA’s continued efforts to improve support for breastfeeding mothers and families.
She also announced the introduction of the Stephanie Charles Legacy Challenge Trophy, which will recognise the health centre demonstrating the highest level of client engagement through the work of district health visitors and patient education initiatives.
Earlier in the proceedings, Director of TBATT, Mrs. Allison Quintero-Constantine, officially welcomed participants and reflected on the significance of the initiative’s 25-year milestone and the continued collaboration among the organising partners.
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of awards for the 2026 Best Breastfed Baby Competition. In an unprecedented outcome, three babies shared first place, reflecting the continued success of Tobago’s Baby-Friendly Initiative and the island’s commitment to improving maternal and child health.
The Annual Family Walk and Breakfast reaffirms the commitment of the TRHA, DHW and TBATT in promoting breastfeeding and creating supportive environments where mothers, babies and families can thrive.
