Recently, the Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors, the Hon. Tinee Furbert, JP, MP, Mirrors Alumni and Friends Association (MAFA) and The Mirrors Programme celebrated the dedication, service, and impact of Mirrors volunteers during its recent Volunteer Appreciation and Awards Ceremony, recognising individuals whose commitment has strengthened the organisation's mission and helped create meaningful opportunities for Bermuda's young people.
The ceremony highlighted the vital role volunteers play in supporting Mirrors' programmes and extending its reach throughout the community.
In her opening remarks, Minister Furbert said, “It would be remiss of us not to recognise the many individuals and organisations whose generosity, dedication, and unwavering belief in the potential of young people have made this remarkable year of achievement possible.”
Chairman of the Mirrors Alumni and Friends Association, Mr John Perinchief, emphasised the importance of volunteerservice, noting, "Mirrors cannot do what it does without you. Every opportunity Mirrors creates, every young person Mirrors encourages, and every life Mirrors touches is strengthened because you chose to be part of this mission."
Awards were presented to volunteers including special recognition to those who demonstrated exceptional leadership,dedication, resilience, and commitment to youth development.
2026 Special Award Recipients
Leadership in Action Award
Presented to Sahrika DeSilva for heartfelt volunteer service and administrative support. Her dedication and kindness in serving others have made a significant impact on the organization and its customers.
Change Agent Award
Presented to Erica Woods for service, leadership, and commitment that have inspired colleagues and youth, strengthened the team, and advanced the programme's mission.
Rookie Life Coach of the Year Award
Presented to Cindy Archer for outstanding alignment with the programme's purpose, demonstrated through significant youth development outcomes, active participation, and commitment to personal growth.
Commitment Award
Presented to Rickie Williams for exemplifying unwavering commitment through consistent participation in training, dedication to coaching, and a strong positive presence throughout the Follow Through programme.
Flexibility Award
Presented to Colina Outerbridge for demonstrating adaptability, openness to change, and a consistent commitment to supporting youth and the life coaching process.
Balance Award
Presented to Eric Bean for successfully balancing personal commitments while investing in youth development and contributing to the strength and success of the life coach cohort.
Perseverance Award
Presented to Pamella Blackwood for demonstrating resilience and strength while maintaining an unwavering commitment to supporting a young person through the life coaching journey.
Most Engaged Life Coaching Award
Presented to Naquan Smith in recognition of outstanding commitment and dedication, completing the highest number of coaching hours.
Volunteer of the Year Awards
This year, Mirrors recognized two exceptional individuals with its highest volunteer honour:
Rosheena Masters – 2026 Volunteer of the Year
Jonathan Nisbett – 2026 Volunteer of the Year
Both recipients were honoured for their exceptional service to Mirrors and their unwavering commitment to supportingBermuda's youth.
Life Coach of the Year Award
Presented to Gary Taylor for inspiring youth through leadership, service, perseverance, and consistently demonstrating the 8 Keys of Excellence while creating a lasting impact on the lives of young people.
Closing the evening, attendees reflected on the collective impact of volunteerism and community partnership. As highlighted during the ceremony, meaningful change is made possible by individuals who generously contribute their time, talents, and resources in service of others.
Mirrors extends its sincere gratitude to all volunteers, partners, and supporters whose contributions continue to empower young people and strengthen communities across Bermuda.
To learn more about Mirrors or to sign up to be a volunteer, call 294-9291 or e-mail mirrors@gov.bm.
