Basseterre, St. Kitts, June 20, 2025 – Seventeen year old Tyrese Williams, a fifth-form student at Verchilds High School, emerged as the overall winner and first-place male finisher of the Development Bank of St. Kitts and Nevis’ (DBSKN) Mental Health Walk/Run, held on Saturday, May 17, 2025, under the theme “Step by Step, Moving As One!”
For Williams, the win was more than crossing the finish line, it was about championing a cause close to his heart. “I chose to participate because I believe that mental health is just as important as physical health,” Williams shared. “As someone who runs regularly, I know how much exercise helps me manage stress and stay focused. Supporting this event was my way of raising awareness and showing others that it’s okay to talk about mental health and take care of it.”
He continued, “Winning means more than just coming first it’s a symbol of determination, discipline, and consistency. It reminds me that when you put in the work and stay motivated, you can achieve anything. I’m proud of the win, but I’m even prouder to stand for something meaningful like mental health.
Tyrese was awarded a prize package including EC$1,000.00 compliments DBSKN, a two-night stay compliments Timothy Beach Resort, and a gift certificate from Drs. Cruz Consulting, which entitles him to a 45-minute session of real-time biofeedback, measuring the mind-body connection.
In light of Tyrese's achievement and his enrollment at Verchilds High School, the DBSKN also made a monetary donation to the school, recognizing the importance of supporting institutions that are actively shaping young minds. The Bank hopes the contribution will assist the school in expanding its mental health and wellness initiatives, ensuring more students have access to supportive resources.
Chantelle Rochester, Integrated Marketing and Communications Manager at DBSKN, organizer of the mental Health walk/run, and the visionary behind the Mental Health Grant Programme, spoke passionately about the purpose behind the movement, “This walk was never just about fitness it was about healing, visibility, and giving people permission to care for their minds without shame,” Rochester said. “I envisioned a space where our community could quite literally move as one, step by step, towards a future where mental wellness is not just talked about during crises but supported year-round. This grant, and the energy from the walk/run, are only the beginning.”
Williams closed with a heartfelt reminder that resonated with many: “Take your mental health seriously. It's okay to ask for help, to rest when you need to, and to speak up when things feel off. You’re not alone. Just like we train our bodies, we need to take care of our minds.”
The Development Bank of St. Kitts and Nevis extends heartfelt appreciation to all our sponsors, and many others who made the 2025 Mental Health Walk/Run a resounding success.
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