Campion College student Alliana Freeman launches CPR initiative after bun-eating contest tragedy

KINGSTON, Jamaica—Inspired by a tragedy and determined to make a difference, Campion College sixth-form student Alliana Freeman has launched Safe Hands Safe Hearts Jamaica, a community initiative equipping caregivers and other Jamaicans with essential lifesaving skills.

The initiative was inspired by the death of Kerron Powell, who reportedly choked during a bun-eating contest in Christiana, Manchester, in March 2026. The incident deeply affected Alliana and reinforced her belief that more people should have access to practical training to help them respond to emergencies.

Working with St John Ambulance Jamaica, Safe Hands Safe Hearts Jamaica held its first two training cohorts in July and August 2026, providing 19 participants with free cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and basic first aid training.