At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when isolation and uncertainty weighed heavily, Phillip Prospers turned to breathwork, meditation, and plant-based foods to find clarity. From that experience came a deep calling to give back and support others on their own health journeys. Phillip focuses primarily on finding ways to fight against health disparities in our community.
“African Americans died from stroke at a rate 44% higher than that for whites during the same period.” These health disparities for Black and African American residents stretch into other parts of health as well. Black Infant Mortality Rates are double that of white counterparts.
Today, you’ll often find Phillip in the Midway or Rondo neighborhoods, sharing his message at community events and tabling for Living Naturally Abundant, his wellness-focused juice company. Whether he’s offering samples or leading workshops, one thing is clear: Phillip believes wellness should be accessible to everyone and his message is delivered with love.
That belief takes shape in many ways, including his book The Greatest Love Story: Healing Through Self Love, and his signature event, Vitality Fest (V-Fest) a community celebration of health, joy, and connection. Now in its fourth year, V-Fest returns on Friday, July 26, at the Hallie Q. Brown Community Center from 12–6 PM, featuring live performances, wellness resources, giveaways, and more. The festival is designed especially to uplift and serve BIPOC community members, addressing disparities in access to nutritious food, movement, and mental health support.
To help raise both awareness and funds for this important event, Phillip is hosting a Run for Men’s Mental Health on June 29. While the focus is on men’s wellness, the event is open to all, anyone who wants to move their body, connect with others, and help strengthen community health. Proceeds from the run will support V-Fest, making the event more accessible and impactful.
Phillip sees wellness not as a destination, but as an everyday practice. Our health can be a way to explore how we feel in our bodies, how we nourish ourselves, and how we show up for the people around us. Through movement, fresh food, and community care, he invites all of us to join in building a culture of health and abundance.
At Mississippi Market, we’re proud to spotlight local changemakers like Phillip who share our values of fresh, local food and community connection. In the spirit of Phillip’s work, try this refreshing Omega Green Juice recipe.