GREAT BAY--Vitiligo Educate Inspire & Support SXM (V.E.I.S.S.) will celebrate five years as an association with its 6th Annual Sunrise Walk & Zumba on Sunday, November 15, 2026, at the Lady Ruby Bute Silk Cotton Grove Art Gallery & Estate in Friars Bay. The event will bring together members, families and supporters for a morning of physical activity, wellness and community engagement while raising funds for the association's planned activities in 2027.
The annual initiative has become an important part of V.E.I.S.S.'s efforts to promote vitiligo awareness, encourage self-confidence and provide support to individuals and families affected by the skin condition. While the event features walking and Zumba, its broader purpose is to encourage mental, emotional and physical well-being and create opportunities for people to connect in a supportive environment.
For individuals living with vitiligo, the challenges can extend beyond changes in skin pigmentation to include concerns about self-image, confidence and social acceptance. Through its activities, V.E.I.S.S. seeks to promote understanding, encourage positive attitudes and remind individuals that they are not alone. The association continues to emphasize the message, "Thinking positively begins with how we feel," encouraging participants to prioritize their personal well-being and take part in activities that bring enjoyment and a sense of belonging.
This year's event will also recognize the continued contribution of Zumba instructor Learie E. Hall, who has supported the initiative since its inception. Hall has led the Zumba component throughout all six editions, helping make the event accessible and enjoyable for participants of different ages and fitness levels. V.E.I.S.S. has expressed its appreciation for his commitment and continued involvement in the association's activities.
To commemorate the six editions, participants who attended previous events are encouraged to wear their V.E.I.S.S. shirts from earlier years. They may also personalize their shirts, with special prizes to be awarded for the most creatively designed entries. Individuals who do not have an official event shirt are welcome to participate in purple or white. A limited selection of shirts from previous editions may also be available in various sizes.
The morning's activities will begin at 6:00 a.m. with a sunrise walk departing from the Lady Ruby Bute Silk Cotton Grove Art Gallery & Estate toward Friars Bay Beach before returning to the estate. This will be followed by a Zumba session led by Hall from 7:10 a.m. to 8:00 a.m., after which participants will enjoy refreshments and the presentation of special prizes. Registration costs US$10 per person, and the event is open to everyone, regardless of walking or dancing experience.
As its final fundraising activity of 2026, the event will also help finance the association's plans for the coming year. Under the theme "PURPOSE IN ACTION – Belong • Participate • Serve • Impact," V.E.I.S.S. intends to expand its educational workshops, member development activities, team-building initiatives and community outreach programs. These activities are designed to strengthen participation within the organization while continuing to promote greater understanding and acceptance of people living with vitiligo.
An additional priority for 2027 is the expansion of V.E.I.S.S.'s outreach beyond St. Maarten. The association plans to explore opportunities for collaboration with individuals, advocates and communities in neighboring Caribbean territories, including Anguilla, Saba and Guadeloupe. Through these connections, V.E.I.S.S. hopes to encourage the exchange of experiences, increase awareness and contribute to a broader regional support network for individuals and families affected by vitiligo.
The association is inviting residents, community organizations, businesses and supporters from both sides of the island to participate in the November 15 event. V.E.I.S.S. emphasizes that participation is not limited to individuals living with vitiligo, as community involvement plays an important role in promoting awareness, understanding and inclusion.
Registration is US$10 per participant. Those interested in attending can register using the event's online registration form.
