National Drug Council Director Appointed

The Board of the National Drug Council (NDC) has announced the appointment of Mrs. Brenda Watson as the new Director of the National Drug Council, following an open recruitment process. This significant appointment marks a new chapter in the organisation’s ongoing efforts to enhance its impact on public health and education around substance misuse.

“The NDC Board of Directors is pleased to welcome Mrs. Brenda Watson in her new capacity as Director,” stated Rev. Dr. Yvette Noble-Bloomfield, Chairperson of the NDC. “Her contribution to the Council over the past ten years has been stellar.  She possesses a depth of knowledge on the NDC that suitably positions her to take the Council’s work forward. Mrs. Watson has worked assiduously to promote the core values and the programs of the NDC. She will ensure that the Council’s work in research, education training and flagship projects such as CISDUS, remains significant to the Cayman society.”

Mrs. Watson is a seasoned professional with over 24 years of experience, including a decade of impactful service at the NDC. With a Bachelor of Science in Education, Mrs. Watson began her career in teaching and administration before making a pivotal transition into the field of substance use prevention. This career shift allowed her to merge her passion for education with community development, driving meaningful change in public health.

During her tenure at the NDC, Mrs. Watson has excelled in various leadership roles, notably as Programme Manager and Acting Director. Her strategic vision and commitment to community well-being have led to the development and execution of numerous educational programmes and public information campaigns. One of her most significant achievements is the expansion of the Research Informed Student Education (RISE) programme to include a curriculum for primary schools. This initiative, known as RISE Primary, has greatly extended the programme’s reach and effectiveness. Additionally, she restructured the Youth to Youth programme, introducing Youth to Youth Junior for Year 6 students, further enhancing early preventative efforts.

In reflecting on her work, Mrs. Watson shared, “Prevention initiatives are critical in averting the onset of substance use and related problems, representing best practices within our field. The educational component empowers both youth and adults with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to appreciate the benefits of healthy living.”

This philosophy is vividly reflected in her work, particularly in the creation of the Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds (HBHM) campaign - a comprehensive health and wellness initiative designed for primary school students. The programme addresses students’ emotional, intellectual, nutritional, physical, and social needs through a 30-day series of virtual activities, showcasing her ability to develop impactful and engaging health strategies.

Mrs. Watson has also been a driving force behind the NDC’s research initiatives. In 2022, she oversaw the 11th cycle of the Cayman Islands Student Drug Use Survey (CISDUS) across 19 schools, marking the first time this survey was administered online in the Caribbean. This effort also resulted in the development of a school substance use policy guide, providing schools with a valuable template for policy development and revision based on the survey’s findings.

“Mrs. Watson’s leadership and innovative approach have consistently elevated the NDC’s initiatives,” said Mrs. Nellie Pouchie, Chief Officer for the Ministry of Health & Wellness. “Her commitment to excellence and her ability to inspire change are invaluable, as we continue to navigate the complexities of public health and education.”

Looking ahead, Mrs. Watson remains committed to advancing public health initiatives, enhancing research capabilities, and amplifying the strategic impact of drug prevention efforts. She is dedicated to continuing her work at the NDC, striving to create a healthier, more informed future for the Cayman Islands.