OUR PROGRAM
Growing Healthier, More Resilient Island Communities
Mindful Eating • Food Sovereignty • Local Leadership
With support from the Network of the National Library of Medicine (NNLM), BCAglobal brought Mindful Eating for the Beloved Community (MEBC) to St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, in partnership with the University of the Virgin Islands (UVI). Together, we are building healthier, more sustainable food practices through education, local farming, and community leadership.
Mindful Eating
Train the Trainer
Equipping local leaders to share knowledge and skills.
Food Sovereignty
Strengthening local food systems and community control.
Sustainable Farming
Supporting local agriculture for a more resilient future.
Building Local Capacity for Lasting Change
The MEBC initiative in the U.S. Virgin Islands uses a Train-the-Trainer model to equip health ambassadors, culinary staff, and community members with the knowledge and tools to lead conversations about mindful eating, food sovereignty, and sustainability. Working with UVI faculty, local community organizations, and farmers, we have developed a culturally informed curriculum that reflects the unique history, food traditions, and needs of the Virgin Islands.
How the Initiative Works
From Partnership to Community Leadership
01
Partner
Collaborate with UVI, local farmers, and community organizations.
02
Learn
Provide culturally grounded education on mindful eating, nutrition, and local food systems.
03
Train
Equip health ambassadors, culinary staff, and community members with practical skills.
04
Lead
Local leaders carry knowledge into their communities, creating lasting change.
Creating Stronger, Healthier Island Communities
Our Work Supports:
Local Leadership
Empowering community members to be change makers.
Healthier Food Choices
Increasing access to nutritious, culturally relevant foods.
Stronger Food Knowledge
Building skills and confidence around food and nutrition.
More Resilient Communities
Advancing sustainability, health, and food sovereignty.
MEBC in the U.S. Virgin Islands
Food, Culture & Community
In the Virgin Islands, food is deeply connected to culture, history, and community. Our work honors local food traditions while promoting healthier, more sustainable choices. By bringing together farmers, educators, health professionals, and community members, MEBC helps strengthen the link between people, food, and the environment — building a more resilient and food-secure future for generations to come.
Why Your Support Matters
Together, we can expand this important work.
Expand mindful eating initiatives
Bring MEBC to more communities across the Virgin Islands.
Increase access to nutritious meals
upport local food systems and healthy food options.
Train youth and community ambassadors
Build the next generation of local leaders.
Support sustainable farming
elp reduce reliance on imported foods and strengthen local agriculture.