This week, the Ministry of National Security visited Cedarbridge Academy to encourage students to consider future careers in Bermuda's uniformed services.
Held in the Ruth Seaton James Auditorium, the special assembly marked the first school-based presentation of its kind under the Ministry's ongoing recruitment campaign, which aims to inspire more residents, especially young Bermudians, to "step up, take the challenge" and pursue meaningful service to the community.
Students heard directly from uniformed service representatives who spoke about their careers, shared personal insights, and discussed the training and commitment required to succeed in the roles.
The Ministry described the event as a success, noting the students' attentiveness and their positive engagement with the speakers.
Minister of National Security, the Hon. Michael Weeks, JP, MP, who attended the event, said it was vital that Bermuda's young people are given clear pathways and encouragement to explore public service.
He said the visit to Cedarbridge was about planting a seed early. "We cannot wait until someone finishes school or returns from college before we talk to them about service," he said.
"We need to start in the schools. These students are at a turning point in life, and this is when they need to hear that a career in the uniformed services is not just a job but a way to grow, lead, and give back."
Minister Weeks added that reaching young people face-to-face is part of a larger goal to promote service value across all age groups.
"If even one student walked out thinking, 'I could see myself doing that,' then we are heading in the right direction," he said.
"But I also want adults, parents, and older Bermudians looking for purpose or a new path to know that opportunities exist for them too. I am encouraging all residents—young and older—to visit gov.bm/uniformedservices and to continue to check the job advertisements, because each service recruits at different times and those chances can go quickly."
He said the campaign is not just about filling vacancies but building a generation of public servants who feel proud of their work.
"We need good people in these roles. People who care. People who want to make a difference. This campaign is about reminding our people that service to your country is still one of the most honourable choices you can make."
The Ministry confirmed that further outreach to young people is being planned to ensure the next generation is informed, inspired, and ready to serve.