Art and wellness workshop helps empower women in Tobago

Chosen Hands, Women of Substance and Trinitica International hosted an art and wellness workshop titled From Broken to Beautiful II, last Saturday at Waves Restaurant and Bar, Black Rock, Tobago.

Domestic violence survivors, healthcare professionals, social workers, officials from youth and women groups and migrants from the Latin American community in Tobago took part in the workshop.

The initiative was the brainchild of Chosen Hands' Anika Plowden-Corentin and was the third instalment in the series of gender-positive initiatives by the NGO to support, empower and inspire vulnerable groups.

The Waves Restaurant and Bar provided the perfect scenic backdrop for participants to receive the topics of the workshop. The soothing sounds of the waves provided for restoration and rejuvenation of the mind, body and soul.

Operations Manager of the Waves Restaurant and Bar, Le Grand Courlan and Spa and Grafton Beach Resort, Jason Hadley said, "The hotel chain was pleased to support such a timely and note-worthy cause to assist vulnerable groups in the community.”

The session was guided by Chosen Hands director Arveon Prout and started with mindful meditation by fibromyalgia activist and artist Terri Osborne. Author, designer and Friends of Botanic Gardens TT member Serina Hearn was an inspirational feature speaker. Hearn used the analogy of the butterfly as a symbol of hope and the actualisation of the human potential to transform, despite life’s challenges. A paint and inspire session was later led by Anika Plowden-Corentin, creative director of Chosen Hands, who encouraged the women to tap into their inner-selves to unlock their creative expression.

The workshop closed with an expression of gratitude from Onika Mars, founder of Women of Substance, who inspired the participants to open their minds to new ways of navigating turbulent times in their lives. Overall, the opportunity provided a safe space where the women in attendance creatively expressed their concerns on sensitive topics, relaxed in the therapeutic ambiance of the venue, while reclaiming pockets of peace and well-being.

Aleah Guitan of Trinitica International was instrumental in incorporating participants from the Latin American community in the workshop. Trinitica International specialises in academic and cultural immersion programmes. The organisation also facilitates the teaching of Spanish and English as a foreign language. Programs are offered for children to adult professionals.

Plowden-Corentin said, “As children we use art and creativity to make sense of our world, somewhere along the road of life we lost that connection. These sessions allow us to reconnect with our core, our authentic selves.”

Organisers thanked gold sponsor COLFIRE, Waves Bar and Restaurant and Le Grand Courlan Spa Resort.

For inquires on supporting Chosen Hands Art and Wellness programs and initiatives contact Anika Plowden-Corentin at 787-8937 or chosenhandstt@gmail.com.