Officials at the Department of Gender and Family Affairs, Ministry of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting, along with partners at the National Women’s Advisory Council, and other women’s non-governmental stakeholders, are gearing up for the annual celebrations of National Women’s Week scheduled for November 24-30.

Minister of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting, the Hon. Myles K. LaRoda, said the Week’s 2024 theme: 'Empowered Women: Refined, Reskilled, Resilient, Resolute,' underscores the qualities of women -- especially Bahamian women – whom he said are “strong, even through times of struggle and hardship.”

Mr. LaRoda said this strength and tenacity were demonstrated during the Women’s Suffrage Era (which concluded in gaining women’s Right to Vote); through times of struggle, and amidst the social and economic challenges faced over the years.

“History records that women and men worked closely together to root out political and economic inequities to obtain the right to vote. Amidst social and economic challenges, women in The Bahamas have demonstrated tenacity.

“Our Women have remained strong through times of struggle and hardship. Amidst social and economic challenges, they have demonstrated tenacity. During this National Women’s Week, it is an opportunity to reflect, celebrate and strategize,” Mr. LaRoda added.

This year marks 62 years since women first voted. (The historic accomplishment took place on November 26, 1962.)  Mr. LaRoda said the right to vote should never be taken lightly.

"As we celebrate the women of the suffrage movement and the historic right to vote, we also celebrate the great strides our women have made and their many accomplishments in various spheres,” Mr. LaRoda said “We also recognize that the work started during the suffrage movement continues to this day through the various women’s organizations who lobby for a life free of violence, true equality and economic empowerment.

"The contributions of those women and men who fought for the enfranchisement of Bahamian Women remained resolute in their goals. Today, we pay tribute to some of the leaders of the Suffrage Movement, including:  Mary Ingraham, Mabel Walker, Georgiana Symonette, Eugenia Lockhart and Doris Johnson.  These brave women were among others who agitated and bravely led the charge of the Suffrage Movement.

“Since that momentous first vote, women have continued to contribute to the building of this great nation.  In commemoration of this significant milestone, the Department of Gender and Family Affairs, in collaboration with the National Women’s Advisory Council, Civil Society and Non-Governmental Women’s Organizations (NGOs) throughout The Bahamas, celebrates National Women’s Week with a series of events.”

The start of National Women’s Week serves as the precursor to the global observance of the United Nations’ Sixteen Days of Activism to End Violence against Women and Girls, which will be observed from November 25, (the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to December 10 (Human Rights Day).  The campaign calls for global action to increase awareness, advocacy and innovations to help end violence against women and girls.

The sixteen days of activism are included in the observance of National Women’s Week and, in this regard, the Department of Gender and Family Affairs has organized the End the Violence March and Rally for Sunday, December 7, beginning at 4 p.m.  The March will commence at South Beach Police Station and end at Pinewood Gardens Park with a rally.  It is expected that representation from a cross-section of the country will come together in solidarity to speak out against violence against women and girls.

Activities for the month include: two church services (Saturday, November 23 at 11am at Good News Seventh Day Adventist Church, Flamingo Gardens, and Sunday, November 24 at 10am at New Destiny Cathedral on Gladstone Road.

Other events include a National Women’s Week Empowerment Luncheon featuring a panel of female leaders from across the political divide (November 26); participation in school assemblies, talk shows and the broadcast of the documentary screening: 'Womanish Ways, Freedom, Human Rights and Democracy.'

Officials at the Department of Gender and Family Affairs, Ministry of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting, along with partners at the National Women’s Advisory Council, and other women’s non-governmental stakeholders, are gearing up for the annual celebrations of National Women’s Week scheduled for November 24-30. Minister of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting, the Hon. Myles K. LaRoda, said the Week’s 2024 theme: 'Empowered Women: Refined, Reskilled, Resilient, Resolute,' underscores the qualities of women -- especially Bahamian women – whom he said are “strong, even through times of struggle and hardship.” Mr. LaRoda said this strength and tenacity were demonstrated during the Women’s Suffrage Era (which concluded in gaining women’s Right to Vote); through times of struggle, and amidst the social and economic challenges faced over the years. “History records that women and men worked closely together to root out political and economic inequities to obtain the right to vote. Amidst social and economic challenges, women in The Bahamas have demonstrated tenacity. “Our Women have remained strong through times of struggle and hardship. Amidst social and economic challenges, they have demonstrated tenacity. During this National Women’s Week, it is an opportunity to reflect, celebrate and strategize,” Mr. LaRoda added. This year marks 62 years since women first voted. (The historic accomplishment took place on November 26, 1962.)  Mr. LaRoda said the right to vote should never be taken lightly. "As we celebrate the women of the suffrage movement and the historic right to vote, we also celebrate the great strides our women have made and their many accomplishments in various spheres,” Mr. LaRoda said “We also recognize that the work started during the suffrage movement continues to this day through the various women’s organizations who lobby for a life free of violence, true equality and economic empowerment. "The contributions of those women and men who fought for the enfranchisement of Bahamian Women remained resolute in their goals. Today, we pay tribute to some of the leaders of the Suffrage Movement, including:  Mary Ingraham, Mabel Walker, Georgiana Symonette, Eugenia Lockhart and Doris Johnson.  These brave women were among others who agitated and bravely led the charge of the Suffrage Movement. “Since that momentous first vote, women have continued to contribute to the building of this great nation.  In commemoration of this significant milestone, the Department of Gender and Family Affairs, in collaboration with the National Women’s Advisory Council, Civil Society and Non-Governmental Women’s Organizations (NGOs) throughout The Bahamas, celebrates National Women’s Week with a series of events.” The start of National Women’s Week serves as the precursor to the global observance of the United Nations’ Sixteen Days of Activism to End Violence against Women and Girls, which will be observed from November 25, (the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to December 10 (Human Rights Day).  The campaign calls for global action to increase awareness, advocacy and innovations to help end violence against women and girls. The sixteen days of activism are included in the observance of National Women’s Week and, in this regard, the Department of Gender and Family Affairs has organized the End the Violence March and Rally for Sunday, December 7, beginning at 4 p.m.  The March will commence at South Beach Police Station and end at Pinewood Gardens Park with a rally.  It is expected that representation from a cross-section of the country will come together in solidarity to speak out against violence against women and girls. Activities for the month include: two church services (Saturday, November 23 at 11am at Good News Seventh Day Adventist Church, Flamingo Gardens, and Sunday, November 24 at 10am at New Destiny Cathedral on Gladstone Road. Other events include a National Women’s Week Empowerment Luncheon featuring a panel of female leaders from across the political divide (November 26); participation in school assemblies, talk shows and the broadcast of the documentary screening: 'Womanish Ways, Freedom, Human Rights and Democracy.'

Grand Bahama saw to it that the final leg of 2024 WNBA Finals MVP Jonquel Jones’ victory tour would go down in the history books as one to remember with a motorcade and two billboard unveilings.

Jones’ return home following the New York Liberty’s 2024 Championship win in the Women’s National Basketball Association (NBA) and being named the 2024 WNBA Finals Most Valuable Player (MVP) was highlighted with three days of festivities beginning with her arrival on Thursday, November 14.

The motorcade on Saturday, November 16 took off from the Grand Bahama Sports Complex through the streets of Grand Bahama and made its first stop at the entrance to the settlement of Eight Mile Rock where the first billboard unveiling honouring Jones was made.

The second unveiling ceremony took place in Holmes Rock, just opposite the street where Jones grew up.

Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture, the Hon. Mario Bowleg, who travelled to Grand Bahama to celebrate with the MVP in her hometown, extended congratulations to Jones on behalf of his ministry and, by extension, the Government of The Bahamas and assured her that the celebration had only just begun.

“We want to be here to celebrate with you where it all began in Holmes Rock and so we say all the best in your future endeavors as we have much more to do to celebrate with you when you get to Nassau this afternoon,” he said.

Minister for Grand Bahama, the Hon. Ginger Moxey and Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry for Grand Bahama and Member of Parliament for West Grand Bahama and Bimini Kingsley Smith expressed how proud they were of the now WNBA icon, who is a daughter of the soil and has put Holmes Rock on the world stage.

An elated Jones noted that she was overwhelmed with the outpouring of love and conveyed her gratitude to her parents, who were on hand for the occasion, for the sacrifices they made and affording her the opportunity to relocate to the United States and pursue her basketball dreams.

“I’d just like to say thank you to everybody that’s out here today. Obviously, this is where it all began, from humble beginnings, literally right through that corner was where I lived. I grew up on that street until I moved over to the US,” she said.

“I’m just really thankful to be here obviously and to be back here celebrating with everybody. Let’s just have a good time and continue to celebrate.”

Following the ceremonies, Jones and her team mates treated the youngsters in the West Grand Bahama community to a basketball clinic at the Eight Mile Rock High School Gymnasium before travelling to New Providence that evening for celebrations there, which includes a reception, dinner at Baha Mar Resort, and a courtesy call on Prime Minister, the Hon. Philip Davis and Governor-General, Her Excellency Dame Cynthia Pratt.

Grand Bahama saw to it that the final leg of 2024 WNBA Finals MVP Jonquel Jones’ victory tour would go down in the history books as one to remember with a motorcade and two billboard unveilings. Jones’ return home following the New York Liberty’s 2024 Championship win in the Women’s National Basketball Association (NBA) and being named the 2024 WNBA Finals Most Valuable Player (MVP) was highlighted with three days of festivities beginning with her arrival on Thursday, November 14.   The motorcade on Saturday, November 16 took off from the Grand Bahama Sports Complex through the streets of Grand Bahama and made its first stop at the entrance to the settlement of Eight Mile Rock where the first billboard unveiling honouring Jones was made. The second unveiling ceremony took place in Holmes Rock, just opposite the street where Jones grew up. Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture, the Hon. Mario Bowleg, who travelled to Grand Bahama to celebrate with the MVP in her hometown, extended congratulations to Jones on behalf of his ministry and, by extension, the Government of The Bahamas and assured her that the celebration had only just begun. “We want to be here to celebrate with you where it all began in Holmes Rock and so we say all the best in your future endeavors as we have much more to do to celebrate with you when you get to Nassau this afternoon,” he said. Minister for Grand Bahama, the Hon. Ginger Moxey and Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry for Grand Bahama and Member of Parliament for West Grand Bahama and Bimini Kingsley Smith expressed how proud they were of the now WNBA icon, who is a daughter of the soil and has put Holmes Rock on the world stage. An elated Jones noted that she was overwhelmed with the outpouring of love and conveyed her gratitude to her parents, who were on hand for the occasion, for the sacrifices they made and affording her the opportunity to relocate to the United States and pursue her basketball dreams. “I’d just like to say thank you to everybody that’s out here today. Obviously, this is where it all began, from humble beginnings, literally right through that corner was where I lived. I grew up on that street until I moved over to the US,” she said. “I’m just really thankful to be here obviously and to be back here celebrating with everybody. Let’s just have a good time and continue to celebrate.” Following the ceremonies, Jones and her team mates treated the youngsters in the West Grand Bahama community to a basketball clinic at the Eight Mile Rock High School Gymnasium before travelling to New Providence that evening for celebrations there, which includes a reception, dinner at Baha Mar Resort, and a courtesy call on Prime Minister, the Hon. Philip Davis and Governor-General, Her Excellency Dame Cynthia Pratt.

The PACE Foundation is delighted to announce twelve Character Day Bahamas Hidden Hero campaign winners. Four educators, four community leaders, two students, and two corporate champions have been recognized for their commitment to improving our world. Their contributions to their communities are inspirational.

Newly appointed PACE Foundation president Claudette Rolle, who has worked on the board for the past 8 years, said, "We chose Peace Begins Me as this year’s theme so that we’re in synergy with others who wish a more peaceful world, and our website offers tools and educational information to support those goals.”

Character Day engages people in conversations about the way character strengthens, shapes, and influences lives. The PACE Foundation hosts Character Day to underscore the importance of forming young people and communities with positive self-worth. PACE (Providing Access to Continued Education), an alternative school for teen mothers, began Character Day as a vehicle to assist in equipping young people with the tools needed to make better decisions, especially as they relate to the prevention of teen pregnancy. In its ninth year, the program, which has impacted students, educators, guidance counsellors and human resource professionals, continues to focus on traits that foster respect of self, community building, love of country, peace and the celebration of Hidden Heroes within our midst.

Program coordinator Charlene Carey said, “Peace truly begins with each of us, and this year's theme is a strong call to action. The public nominated 113 peacemakers with character strengths like kindness, empathy, respect, courage, and resilience.”

The youngest heroes are students - Kendia Brown is thirteen and attends grade 9 at LN Coakley High School in Exuma. Pauljamah Smith is nine and attends grade 6 at Clara E. Evans Primary School in North Andros. Kendia is recognized as a peace ambassador and is involved with service. She was described as someone who assists and uplifts others, embodies exceptional leadership and selflessness, and is also a Spelling Bee champ. Pauljamah is said to exemplify kindness, humility, and courage. He founded the "I Am Royal Foundation" two years ago to promote safety, love, and inclusion. He serves lunch to peers and raises awareness about the dangers of drugs. His nominator was impressed with his kindness, humility, and role as a "champion of peace".

Educators spend a lot of time with our youth and play a pivotal role in their lives. Latara Archer, a special education teacher at the Ministry of Education, Lakiesha Cox of Eva Hilton Primary School, Sharleen Hanson of Boost Academy and Lisa Hutchinson of SC McPherson Jr High have been recognized for their tireless work.

Latara Archer embodies the spirit of a "hidden hero," inspiring those around her through perseverance, kindness, resilience, and humility. She is a community champion and dedicated advocate for differently abled students. She creates individualized educational programs that address their unique needs.

Lakiesha Cox, an educator for more than 14 years, is recognized for her resilience, kindness, and humility. Lakiesha inspires those around her, and her exemplary character and commitment to education make her a "Hidden Hero." She is a published author of "Dear Parents and Guardians: A Teacher Vent Book for Teachers by a Teacher."

Sharleen Hanson is a literacy advocate and director of the school she established. She exemplifies resilience, courage, perseverance, kindness, humility, and optimism as a teacher, director, tutor, board member, and advocate. Her empathy and patience as a tutor have helped students from disadvantaged backgrounds or with learning challenges feel capable and empowered. Her advocacy includes supporting underserved communities, maternal health and breastfeeding, inclusion, and human rights. She believes in building a more just and equitable world.

Lisa Hutchinson is an exceptional educator whose tireless efforts make her a true "Hidden Hero." She is described as innovative, tech-savvy, motivational, and caring. Her dedication and mentorship have earned her the admiration of colleagues and students. Some of her accomplishments include establishing student clubs that promote school pride, cleanliness and entrepreneurial skills.

Peacemakers help foster empathy, break down barriers, and unite people to reflect on the importance of personal and societal peace, harmony, and understanding.

Four community leaders and two corporate Hidden Heroes with those ideals are Eleanor Archer-Dean, a retired Bahamasair veteran; Rhashanna Curry, a project coordinator of the Sunset Pilot Club of Grand Bahama; Louby Georges, a human rights defender, and Sharon McKenzie, a youth leader at the Ministry of Education: including corporate hidden heroes Lisa Gardiner, an educator at DW Davis High School and Rosheeda Rolle, senior mistress at Lewis Yard Primary School in Grand Bahama.

Eleanor Archer-Dean was described as a pillar of compassion. After 35 years at the national airline, she is now retired. Her nominee stated that Eleanor embodies generosity and kindness - she goes above and beyond to support those in need with meals, clothing and shelter, often taking in individuals with financial hardships. She is known in her community for her unwavering kindness and humility.

Rhashanna Curry has transformed lives through community service projects and initiatives. She raised funds for a 9-year-old Sickle Cell patient, taught students how to protect their brains through Brain Health advocacy, and supported healthcare professionals at Rand Memorial Hospital. She also collaborated with organizations to raise funds for cancer patients, gave lectures at a local college, and operated a tutoring program. Her empathetic nature fosters meaningful connections and collaboration, exemplifying the qualities of a Hidden Hero through her selfless dedication to education and community service.

Louby Georges is a passionate human rights activist, philanthropist, and entrepreneur focused on social justice and peacebuilding. He advocates for equality, justice and empowerment, working tirelessly to create positive change. Louby's leadership fosters peaceful relationships and community cohesion, making him a respected peacebuilder. His multifaceted commitment to social justice and empowerment exemplifies his dedication to building a better world for all. His entrepreneurial spirit creates opportunities for growth and development for others.

Sharon McKenzie is a "Hidden Hero" known for her tireless advocacy and empowerment of youth through her organization Dynamic Youth in Action. Her impactful work at her alma mater, Columbus Primary, has inspired countless students. Her innovative program, "Open Box Session," offers a safe space for youth to express themselves and develop life skills.

Lisa Gardiner has a peaceful soul and embodies resilience and compassion. Despite recently undergoing an amputation, she returned to teaching with unwavering passion. Described as a "phenomenal teacher with a great spirit," Lisa promoted the "Peace Begins with Me" campaign and also raised awareness about the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. Her gentle nature and commitment to her students make her a true "Hidden Hero."

Rosheeda Rolle is an exceptional team player who consistently goes above and beyond her duties. Humble and selfless, she works tirelessly behind the scenes without seeking recognition. With strong problem-solving skills, she finds innovative solutions to challenges and fosters a positive, supportive environment for everyone. Rosheeda's kindness and compassion make her a vital asset to her school community.

Peace is a fundamental precondition for social and economic development. Without peace, societies are often plagued by conflict, violence, and instability, which can hinder progress and result in the loss of lives and resources. (UN Sustainable Development Goals). The PACE Foundation encourages you to consider how you can contribute to developing a peaceful society.

Supported by the Templeton World Charity Foundation Inc., Character Day Bahamas is part of the PACE Foundation's work. For more information on Character Day Bahamas, please visit www.characterdaybahamas.org.

Nassau, Bahamas—The PACE Foundation is delighted to announce twelve Character Day Bahamas Hidden Hero campaign winners. Four educators, four community leaders, two students, and two corporate champions have been recognized for their commitment to improving our world. Their contributions to their communities are inspirational. Newly appointed PACE Foundation president Claudette Rolle, who has worked on the board for the past 8 years, said, "We chose Peace Begins Me as this year’s theme so that we’re in synergy with others who wish a more peaceful world, and our website offers tools and educational information to support those goals.” Character Day engages people in conversations about the way character strengthens, shapes, and influences lives. The PACE Foundation hosts Character Day to underscore the importance of forming young people and communities with positive self-worth. PACE (Providing Access to Continued Education), an alternative school for teen mothers, began Character Day as a vehicle to assist in equipping young people with the tools needed to make better decisions, especially as they relate to the prevention of teen pregnancy. In its ninth year, the program, which has impacted students, educators, guidance counsellors and human resource professionals, continues to focus on traits that foster respect of self, community building, love of country, peace and the celebration of Hidden Heroes within our midst. Program coordinator Charlene Carey said, “Peace truly begins with each of us, and this year's theme is a strong call to action. The public nominated 113 peacemakers with character strengths like kindness, empathy, respect, courage, and resilience.” The youngest heroes are students - Kendia Brown is thirteen and attends grade 9 at LN Coakley High School in Exuma. Pauljamah Smith is nine and attends grade 6 at Clara E. Evans Primary School in North Andros. Kendia is recognized as a peace ambassador and is involved with service. She was described as someone who assists and uplifts others, embodies exceptional leadership and selflessness, and is also a Spelling Bee champ. Pauljamah is said to exemplify kindness, humility, and courage. He founded the "I Am Royal Foundation" two years ago to promote safety, love, and inclusion. He serves lunch to peers and raises awareness about the dangers of drugs. His nominator was impressed with his kindness, humility, and role as a "champion of peace". Educators spend a lot of time with our youth and play a pivotal role in their lives. Latara Archer, a special education teacher at the Ministry of Education, Lakiesha Cox of Eva Hilton Primary School, Sharleen Hanson of Boost Academy and Lisa Hutchinson of SC McPherson Jr High have been recognized for their tireless work. Latara Archer embodies the spirit of a "hidden hero," inspiring those around her through perseverance, kindness, resilience, and humility. She is a community champion and dedicated advocate for differently abled students. She creates individualized educational programs that address their unique needs. Lakiesha Cox, an educator for more than 14 years, is recognized for her resilience, kindness, and humility. Lakiesha inspires those around her, and her exemplary character and commitment to education make her a "Hidden Hero." She is a published author of "Dear Parents and Guardians: A Teacher Vent Book for Teachers by a Teacher." Sharleen Hanson is a literacy advocate and director of the school she established. She exemplifies resilience, courage, perseverance, kindness, humility, and optimism as a teacher, director, tutor, board member, and advocate. Her empathy and patience as a tutor have helped students from disadvantaged backgrounds or with learning challenges feel capable and empowered. Her advocacy includes supporting underserved communities, maternal health and breastfeeding, inclusion, and human rights. She believes in building a more just and equitable world. Lisa Hutchinson is an exceptional educator whose tireless efforts make her a true "Hidden Hero." She is described as innovative, tech-savvy, motivational, and caring. Her dedication and mentorship have earned her the admiration of colleagues and students. Some of her accomplishments include establishing student clubs that promote school pride, cleanliness and entrepreneurial skills. Peacemakers help foster empathy, break down barriers, and unite people to reflect on the importance of personal and societal peace, harmony, and understanding. Four community leaders and two corporate Hidden Heroes with those ideals are Eleanor Archer-Dean, a retired Bahamasair veteran; Rhashanna Curry, a project coordinator of the Sunset Pilot Club of Grand Bahama; Louby Georges, a human rights defender, and Sharon McKenzie, a youth leader at the Ministry of Education: including corporate hidden heroes Lisa Gardiner, an educator at DW Davis High School and Rosheeda Rolle, senior mistress at Lewis Yard Primary School in Grand Bahama. Eleanor Archer-Dean was described as a pillar of compassion. After 35 years at the national airline, she is now retired. Her nominee stated that Eleanor embodies generosity and kindness - she goes above and beyond to support those in need with meals, clothing and shelter, often taking in individuals with financial hardships. She is known in her community for her unwavering kindness and humility. Rhashanna Curry has transformed lives through community service projects and initiatives. She raised funds for a 9-year-old Sickle Cell patient, taught students how to protect their brains through Brain Health advocacy, and supported healthcare professionals at Rand Memorial Hospital. She also collaborated with organizations to raise funds for cancer patients, gave lectures at a local college, and operated a tutoring program. Her empathetic nature fosters meaningful connections and collaboration, exemplifying the qualities of a Hidden Hero through her selfless dedication to education and community service. Louby Georges is a passionate human rights activist, philanthropist, and entrepreneur focused on social justice and peacebuilding. He advocates for equality, justice and empowerment, working tirelessly to create positive change. Louby's leadership fosters peaceful relationships and community cohesion, making him a respected peacebuilder. His multifaceted commitment to social justice and empowerment exemplifies his dedication to building a better world for all. His entrepreneurial spirit creates opportunities for growth and development for others. Sharon McKenzie is a "Hidden Hero" known for her tireless advocacy and empowerment of youth through her organization Dynamic Youth in Action. Her impactful work at her alma mater, Columbus Primary, has inspired countless students. Her innovative program, "Open Box Session," offers a safe space for youth to express themselves and develop life skills. Lisa Gardiner has a peaceful soul and embodies resilience and compassion. Despite recently undergoing an amputation, she returned to teaching with unwavering passion. Described as a "phenomenal teacher with a great spirit," Lisa promoted the "Peace Begins with Me" campaign and also raised awareness about the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. Her gentle nature and commitment to her students make her a true "Hidden Hero." Rosheeda Rolle is an exceptional team player who consistently goes above and beyond her duties. Humble and selfless, she works tirelessly behind the scenes without seeking recognition. With strong problem-solving skills, she finds innovative solutions to challenges and fosters a positive, supportive environment for everyone. Rosheeda's kindness and compassion make her a vital asset to her school community. Peace is a fundamental precondition for social and economic development. Without peace, societies are often plagued by conflict, violence, and instability, which can hinder progress and result in the loss of lives and resources. (UN Sustainable Development Goals). The PACE Foundation encourages you to consider how you can contribute to developing a peaceful society. Supported by the Templeton World Charity Foundation Inc., Character Day Bahamas is part of the PACE Foundation's work. For more information on Character Day Bahamas, please visit www.characterdaybahamas.org.

The Bahamas  Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation (MOTIA) hosted a Retirees Luncheon to celebrate the considerable contributions and achievements of 66 retirees from 2020 to 2024.

Bringing remarks to congratulate the retirees were Acting Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation the Hon. Chester Cooper; Mrs. Lisa Adderley Anderson, Acting Permanent Secretary, MOTIA; and Mrs. Latia Duncombe, Director General of Tourism. 

In attendance were the Hon. Basil Mcintosh, Minister of State for Aviation; John H.W. Pinder, ll, Parliamentary Secretary, MOTIA; Senator the Hon. Randy Rolle; Reginald Saunders, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Housing and Urban Renewal; Jack Thompson, Permanent Secretary, Office of the Governor General; Dr. Kenneth Romer, Director of Aviation and Deputy Director General of Tourism; Christine Green, Deputy Permanent Secretary, MOTIA; and other Tourism officials.  

The Bahamas  Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation (MOTIA) hosted a Retirees Luncheon to celebrate the considerable contributions and achievements of 66 retirees from 2020 to 2024. Bringing remarks to congratulate the retirees were Acting Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation the Hon. Chester Cooper; Mrs. Lisa Adderley Anderson, Acting Permanent Secretary, MOTIA; and Mrs. Latia Duncombe, Director General of Tourism.  In attendance were the Hon. Basil Mcintosh, Minister of State for Aviation; John H.W. Pinder, ll, Parliamentary Secretary, MOTIA; Senator the Hon. Randy Rolle; Reginald Saunders, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Housing and Urban Renewal; Jack Thompson, Permanent Secretary, Office of the Governor General; Dr. Kenneth Romer, Director of Aviation and Deputy Director General of Tourism; Christine Green, Deputy Permanent Secretary, MOTIA; and other Tourism officials.