In the first year (2003-2004) that I was acclimating to my new life on Dominica, I was fortunate to meet amazing women with strong visions. From this association WAHABTAC was born. The name was partly derived from the Arawak Indian name for Dominica….Waitukubuli….which means “Tall is her body”.
Three women, Connie Astaphan, massage therapist and salon owner; Dr. Kandis Blakely, psychotherapist and author; and myself envisioned a health conference which included natural beauty and health products and procedures. Thus, the Waitukubuli Association of Healing Arts, Beauty Therapy and Cosmetology (WAHABTAC) was born.
This organization was the FIRST ever on Dominica to have as its mission “to ensure continuing education and high standards for complementary care in the health and beauty industry in Dominica.” It was a massive undertaking which took eight months to plan inviting speakers from all over the Caribbean.
The Health and Beauty Symposium lasted four days involving panel discussions, workshops, a fashion show and a fair with booths of demonstrations and products. The general public was quite intrigued so it was well attended and highly acclaimed throughout the island as a smashing success!
In the first photo below a panel discussion is in progress as I (left side standing) am addressing the audience. In the second photo my chiropractic booth is shown with (left to right) Caryl Titre, Chantelle Peter, and myself in the entryway.
