Advancing Wellness, One Initiative at a Time
For Alanis Linwood-Amor, wellness is not just a professional interest - it is a personal commitment, grounded in years of experience, passion, and purpose. As a long-standing member of the Cayman Islands Civil Service Wellness Committee, Alanis has played an active role in shaping the programmes and practices that support the well-being of her fellow civil servants.
“I became a member of the Wellness Committee in October 2019 due to my background in public health and a strong passion for wellness,” she explains. “Those who know me know that fitness is a key part of my life—the gym is my second home.”
Through her time serving as the Co-Chair and her ongoing involvement since then, Alanis has been instrumental in promoting initiatives that make healthy choices more accessible to all employees, while helping to build a more resilient, motivated, and connected Civil Service.
Wellness in Practice
One such initiative is the Gym Membership Deduction Programme, a collaboration between the Wellness Committee and participating gyms. It allows civil servants to access gym memberships at a reduced rate, with fees conveniently deducted through payroll.
“Wellness programmes like the Gym Membership Deduction Programme make it easier for us to prioritise our health,” she says. “The payroll deduction system makes it convenient for employees to sign up and stay committed to their health goals.”
According to Alanis, many of her colleagues have embraced the programme, making regular workouts and fitness classes a part of their routine. “Many of my colleagues have taken advantage of the Gym Membership Deduction Programme and benefited from regular workouts and classes, knowing they’re covered by a one-year membership.”
This type of accessible, structured support is central to the Committee’s purpose, encouraging long-term commitment to personal health, even amidst demanding work schedules.
A Foundation for the Future
For Alanis, the importance of wellness within the Civil Service goes far beyond individual health. It’s about sustaining the very fabric of the public workforce.
“The Wellness Committee and its initiatives are essential for the future of the civil service because they help civil servants become more resilient, engaged, and motivated,” she shares. “Work can be stressful, so maintaining a healthy work-life balance is vital.”
This perspective reflects the broader vision of the Cayman Islands Civil Service: a modern, responsive organisation that prioritises people and recognises that investment in employee well-being leads to stronger service delivery across the board.
By fostering habits of self-care, offering spaces for connection, and building awareness of mental and physical health, the Wellness Committee is supporting both current employees and future generations of civil servants.
Engagement Through Community
Beyond the gym, Alanis highlights other impactful ways the Committee has brought employees together. She recalls the success of CIG Quiz Night, a popular event that brings ministries into friendly competition.
“My Ministry has participated in the CIG Quiz Night twice and even performed well one year!” she says. “The feedback I received highlighted that it was a great way to relieve stress, engage in a fun and mentally stimulating activity, and build team bonds.”
This feedback reflects a key insight: wellness is not just about physical fitness. It’s about fostering a culture of well-being - one that values social connection, mental stimulation, and team spirit.
The Bigger Picture
Alanis is keenly aware of the evolving role the Wellness Committee plays across the Civil Service. With more staff actively engaging in events and holding the Committee to account, she sees clear signs of its growing influence.
“I wish more people understood the positive impact the Wellness Committee can have on both their personal and professional lives,” she says. “Wellness isn’t just about physical health—though that’s important—it’s about creating a culture that values overall well-being.”
She believes this culture is essential to delivering the Civil Service’s mission. “Without healthy, well-supported employees, we can’t have a functioning civil service,” she adds.
For Alanis, the journey has been both personal and professional. As the Wellness Committee continues to evolve, she remains a strong advocate for its value, not only as a set of programmes, but as a philosophy that reflects the heart of public service.
Here to Serve, Here to Support
In sharing her experience, Alanis offers a compelling reminder of the Civil Service’s core values: passion, professionalism, and integrity. Her contributions help ensure that these values are lived every day, not only through policy and procedure, but through the everyday lives of the people who serve.
“I’ve seen the committee evolve over the years,” she reflects, “and it’s encouraging to see more civil servants becoming engaged and even holding us accountable for our initiatives. If that’s not a clear sign of the committee’s importance, I don’t know what is!”
