THE NATION GROUP is working to lend support and give a greater voice to the anti-violence movement.
In light of the recent spate of highly visible and public violent acts, which have directly affected bystanders, it is apparent that even more must be done by non-governmental organisations as well as the public and private sector to help influence and ensure a safer society for present and future generations.
As such, The Nation Publishing Co. Ltd and Starcom Network will be spearheading a broad-based anti-violence initiative, which will focus on influencing behaviour change, encouraging positive actions and supporting rehabilitative programmes.
This has started with the launch of an anti-violence appeal campaign, which has already been broadcast across the Starcom Network radio stations: HOTT 95.3FM, VOB 92.9FM, LIFE 97.5FM and THE BEAT 104.1FM.
With the help of local entertainers and influencers such as Starcom Network’s 2017 People’s Monarch, Sanctuary; TC, Lead Pipe D2.5 also known as Mr Tamarind Rod, as well as Nation Group personalities, multiple public service announcements encouraging people
to “Choose life, love and peace” have aired. This campaign will be supported by a print and digital advertising campaign.
Another key aspect of the Group’s anti-violence plan of action will be the launch of GET L.O.U.D.D. (the acronym standing for leadership, obedience, unity, drive and dedication), a motivational programme targeting youth at the secondary school level, which aims to highlight and encourage positive actions by the youth. The idea for this programme was the brainchild of HOTT 95.3FM personality Scott Le Roc.
Anti-violence will also again be at the forefront of this year’s Nation Funathlon (Fun Walk & Run), which will be held under the theme Stand Up For A Better Barbados.
“We’ve carried an anti-violence focus for the past three years, and we believe it’s important for us as the leading media entities to continue to lead from the front, voicing our disapproval of this criminal disease that plagues our
country and providing tangible support to charities and projects which are helping to either prevent violent acts or rehabilitate and support victims of violence,” said Valerie Hope, Head of Marketing and Communication of Nation Group.
“Our news reports are increasingly filled with stories of violence in our communities and the heartbreak of those affected. It is therefore our responsibility not only as good corporate citizens but as individual residents to join with and encourage Barbadians to stand up against all forms of violence,” she added.
Last year, the Nation Group (Nation Publishing and Starcom Network), its sponsors and the public joined together to raise approximately $20 000 for two charitable organisations.
“We were very pleased to be able to make a donation of $10 000 each to PAREDOS, who provide counselling for victims and violent offenders, and who also run positive parenting community programmes, as well as the Business and Professional Womens’ Club Safe House and Crisis Centre that helps victims and families of violence get back on their feet. It is essential that these and other anti-violence and positive behaviour-focused charities are provided with greater tangible support if we are to succeed in building stronger communities and a better Barbados,” said Hope.
The Nation Group encourages all residents and citizens of the country to come together and lend their voice to the cause. (PR)
