In early June, Premier David Burt met with US based online safety advocate Joanne Bogard and her husband, Stephen Bogard, at the Cabinet Office.

Mrs. Bogard, who is based in Indiana, has dedicated her life to advocating for stronger protections for young people online following the loss of her 15‑year‑old son, Mason, in an incident linked to a dangerous social media trend.

Their meeting focused on the risks young people face in digital spaces and the need for greater awareness, education, and safeguards.

Premier Burt thanked Mrs. Bogard for meeting with him and for sharing her experience.

The Premier said, “No parent should have to endure the loss of a child. Mason’s story reminds us of the risks that exist online and the collective responsibility that we all share to do more to protect our young people as a community. I am grateful to Mrs. Bogard for her willingness to speak out and for taking the time to meet.”

The discussion builds on the Government’s ongoing focus on youth mental health and online safety, including last year’s Chat & Chew session, which highlighted the risks social media poses to children.

 Mrs. Bogard thanked the Premier for the opportunity to meet and for his engagement on the issue. The Government continues its work to support safer digital environments for Bermuda’s young people.