The Mirrors Programme proudly celebrated the accomplishments of Community Programme Leadership Academy (CPLA) Cohort 20 during its closing ceremony on June 6, at the Spanish Point Boat Club.

The event brought together Emerging Leaders, Life Coaches, the Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors, the Hon. Tinée Furbert, JP, MP, families, and supporters to reflect on a year of growth, leadership development, service, and personal transformation.

The day began with an interactive team-building rowing activity that challenged participants to work collaboratively, communicate effectively, and demonstrate the leadership skills cultivated throughout their CPLA journey. The activity highlighted the importance of teamwork, trust, and communication, demonstrating that effective leadership is achieved when individuals work together toward a shared goal.

A highlight of the event was a heartfelt presentation from the Emerging Leaders to their Life Coaches. Through personal reflections and hand-decorated cedar medallions, participants expressed gratitude for the guidance, encouragement, and accountability their coaches provided throughout the programme.

As the first youth trained in Restorative Practices in Bermuda earlier this year, the Emerging Leaders facilitated a Proactive Fishbowl Circle reflecting on the impact of the Community Programme Leadership Academy on their lives. Participants spoke about increased confidence, stronger communication skills, greater self-awareness, and a deeper belief in their ability to positively influence their schools and communities. 

Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors, the Hon. Tinée Furbert, JP, MP, congratulated the Emerging Leaders on completing the programme and encouraged them to continue leading with purpose, integrity, and a commitment to positively impacting their schools and communities.

The Assistant Director of Child and Family Services, Kennette Robinson, congratulated the trailblazing Emerging Leaders on their accomplishments throughout the programme. She noted that their ability to facilitate restorative circles extends beyond leadership development and has the potential to strengthen relationships, foster understanding, and positively influence the culture of their schools and communities.

Throughout the programme, Emerging Leaders completed Mental Health First Aid training and led Positivity Project campaigns within their schools, applying their leadership skills to promote positive mental health and youth well-being in their communities.

The ceremony's guest speaker, Jahnai Smith, Educational Therapist at CedarBridge Academy, delivered an inspiring address entitled Strong Like a Tree. Drawing on the metaphor of a tree, Mr. Smith encouraged participants to view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles to success. He reminded Emerging Leaders that leadership, perseverance, and character are often developed through adversity and challenged them to remain rooted in their values while using their strengths to positively impact others.

The event concluded with an awards ceremony recognizing exceptional leadership, character, and service. Dante Hansey received the Integrity Award, while Zion Woods earned the Most Engaged Coaching Award. Leadership in Action Awards were presented to Alaire Brown, Jahmari Smith-Deshields, Kale Simons, Mayah Williams-Johnson, Tarryn Matthie, and Zion Woods for their service as Junior Team Leaders during Junior Forum Middle School Camp. Mayah Williams-Johnson, Tarryn Matthie, Kale Simons, and Jahmari Smith-Deshields also received the prestigious 8 Keys of Excellence Award.

The Mirrors Programme congratulates all members of Cohort 20 and looks forward to witnessing their continued impact across Bermuda.

The Mirrors Programme is currently recruiting Life Coaches for Cohort 21. Individuals interested in supporting and mentoring Bermuda's next generation of leaders are encouraged to contact the Mirrors Programme at 294-9291 or mirrors@gov.bm for more information.