Inter-Island Communication News Brief – July 19, 2019

Congratulations to Bermuda’s Youth Parliamentarian Halle Teart for earning the distinction of as ‘Best Debater’ in the 15th Annual Regional Youth Parliament debate – it all happened in the Parliament of Trinidad and Tobago on July 17th. She was part of a two strong team of young Bermudian debaters chosen from Youth Parliament Bermuda, with her partner being Chrysda Smith. They competed against Youth Parliamentarians from across the Caribbean, debating the motion: ‘Securing our Borders to Mitigate the Effects of Crime whilst striving to meet our Humanitarian Obligations.’

Russell Lister joined the two youth parliamentarians, as the Youth Parliament Senior Advisor. He said quote, “I was not surprised, in particular when Ms. Teart was challenged with a point of order. She did not ignore it nor give a quick response as she took the time to ensure that she addressed the point of order fully to dismiss any attempt to weaken her argument.”

Congratulations to Vanessa Gilbert, the 2019 recipient of the Conyer’s Leadership Scholarship Award.

A spokesperson shared a quote, “The award, which is valued at US$5000, is presented annually to a graduating CedarBridge Academy student. The recipient will have demonstrated leadership abilities through practical experience, personal reflection and community involvement.”

“Vanessa was Deputy Head Prefect at CedarBridge and graduated at the end of June among the top of her class with a 3.5 GPA. She has an impressive record for community service, having volunteered as a Junior Candy Striper for the past four years and as a student mentor at the Family Centre’s Homework Academy since 2018.

“Vanessa was nominated for a Bermuda Outstanding Teen Award in both the Community Service and Spiritual Leadership categories in 2019. She was a member of the school’s Gavel Club and debate team, played clarinet with the Bermuda Youth Orchestra and was a United Nations International Student Ambassador. Her graduating class also voted her Miss Congeniality.

“Vanessa’s next step is to attend Mount Saint Vincent University in Halifax, Canada, majoring in psychology. She would like to pursue a career in family counselling or drug counselling in Bermuda.”

Congratulations to Jamel Easton, an apprentice working in Bermuda Air Conditioning’s Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning [HVAC] Service Department, for graduating from Bermuda College as part of the BAC Apprenticeship Programme.

Commenting on the highlights of his Apprenticeship, Mr. Easton said, “I really enjoyed going out on site with the other technicians, as I learned so many tips and tricks on what you can do in any given situation. I found that very helpful.”

In congratulating Mr. Easton upon his graduation from Bermuda College, HVAC Service Supervisor, Vance Hollis, said, “It’s important to us at BAC that we help the younger generation to get their foot in the door in an industry where there’s an opportunity for growth. As an apprentice, you have the security of a job and the benefit of further education by getting your degree as well.”